The Utility and Implementation of Firmware Resets for Samsung ML-2160 /2165 Series Samsung ML-2160 , and their wireless counterparts (
) are compact, cost-efficient laser printers primarily used in home offices and small business environments. While reliable, users often encounter restrictive software barriers, particularly regarding toner lifespan and hardware errors
. A firmware reset is a common solution used to bypass these limitations, improve hardware performance, and enable the use of refilled cartridges. The Purpose of Firmware Resets
The primary motivation for a firmware reset is financial. Samsung printers utilize a cartridge chip—essentially a resistor that tracks page counts—to signal when a toner is "empty". Often, the printer will stop functioning once this count is reached, even if physical toner remains in the cartridge.
This report outlines the procedure for performing a firmware reset on Samsung ML-2160, ML-2165, and their wireless (W) variants. Note that "resetting" in this context typically refers to either a factory reset to clear settings or a firmware "fix" to allow printing without toner chips. 1. Pre-Reset: Identifying Firmware Details
Before applying any firmware modifications, you must identify your current firmware version and CRUM number.
Configuration Report: Hold the Print Screen / WPS button for ~10 seconds until the LED flashes once, then release. This prints the Serial Number and Firmware Version.
Supplies Information: Hold the Print Screen / WPS button for ~15 seconds until the LED stays solid green, then release. This prints the CRUM series number. 2. Firmware Reset Procedures
Depending on your goal (factory reset vs. chip-less printing), follow the relevant method below: Method A: Soft/Factory Reset (General Malfunctions) To clear memory and internal errors:
Button Method: Turn on the device and hold the Stop/Cancel button for 10–15 seconds until the LEDs flash, then restart.
Menu Method (if applicable): Navigate to Menu > System > Factory Settings. Method B: Firmware "Fix" (Chip-less Printing)
Third-party "fixes" are often used to bypass toner chip requirements. Use these with caution as they may void warranties.
Enter Download Mode: Turn off the printer. Hold the Print Screen (or WPS) button while turning the power back on. Release after ~3 seconds once the LED turns green.
Flash Firmware: Connect to a PC via USB. Drag and drop the specific .hd firmware file onto the usbprns2.exe utility.
Completion: The printer will flash and reboot. You must then remove or cover the toner chip with tape for the reset to take effect. 3. Essential Resources & Links
Official Support: Visit Samsung ML-2165W Setup (HP Support) for official manuals and drivers. Detailed Guides: eReset Guide for identifying firmware versions.
ORPYS ML-2160 Firmware for specific file-handling instructions. Video Tutorials: How to print reports for Samsung ML-2160/2165. firmware reset samsung ml 2160 2165 2160w 2165w link
Warning: Interrupting a firmware update (e.g., power loss) can permanently corrupt the printer's firmware. Always use a stable power source or UPS during the process. Firmware Reset Samsung Ml 2165wbfdcm - Facebook
Published by: Tech Printer Solutions
Reading time: 8 minutes
Difficulty: Moderate
If you own a Samsung monochrome laser printer from the ML-2160 series, you have likely encountered a frustrating reality: automatic firmware updates often disable third-party or refilled toner cartridges. One day your printer works perfectly; the next, it shows a permanent "Non-Samsung Toner" or "Replace Toner" error—even when the cartridge is full.
The only reliable solution is a firmware reset (downgrade). This article provides a step-by-step guide, troubleshooting tips, and the verified firmware reset Samsung ML 2160 2165 2160W 2165W link.
| Problem | Solution | |---------|----------| | "No printer found" | Change USB port. Use a USB 2.0 port (not 3.0). Disable USB selective suspend in Windows power settings. | | Stuck at 0% | Turn printer off/on while the updater is running. Click "Retry". | | "Invalid Firmware File" | Re-download the file. Antivirus may have corrupted it. | | Printer still shows "Non-Samsung Toner" | You may need a physical toner reset gear or chip. The firmware reset only works on models with firmware older than 2018. If your printer has a newer bootloader, use a hardware resetter. | | Wi-Fi lost after reset (W models) | Reconfigure Wi-Fi using Samsung Easy Printer Manager (download from Samsung support). |
Il reset del firmware può risolvere problemi software persistenti, ma va eseguito con cautela e preferibilmente con firmware ufficiale. Per i modelli Samsung ML-2160/2165 e le varianti wireless, iniziare da operazioni meno invasive (scollegare l'alimentazione, reset delle impostazioni di fabbrica tramite menu) e riservare il flash del firmware a casi in cui sia strettamente necessario o su indicazione dell'assistenza tecnica.
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Resetting the firmware on your Samsung ML-2160 , Go to product viewer dialog for this item. ,
, or 2165W allows you to use refilled toner cartridges without the printer blocking them due to an "empty" chip. This process involves applying a patched firmware fix that resets the page counter to 100% every time the printer restarts. Prerequisites for Firmware Reset
Before applying any fix, you must identify your specific printer details by printing two reports:
Configuration Report: Hold the Print Screen / WPS button for about 10 seconds until the LED flashes once. This report contains your Serial Number and Firmware Version.
Supplies Information: Hold the same button for about 15 seconds until the LED stays green. This report lists the CRUM series number, which is a unique 11-digit identifier for your cartridge chip. Step-by-Step Reset Procedure
Once you have obtained the appropriate firmware fix file for your CRUM and version:
Enter Download Mode: Turn the printer off. Press and hold the Print Screen button, then press and hold Power. Release both after a few seconds. Connect and Flash: Connect your printer to your PC via USB.
Run the Fix: Drag and drop the downloaded .hd firmware file onto the usbprns2.exe application provided in your reset package.
Reboot: The printer will program for 1–2 minutes and then automatically restart. The Utility and Implementation of Firmware Resets for
Disable the Chip: Once finished, you must remove or cover the toner chip with tape so the printer ignores the hardware counter and relies on the new firmware. Essential Resource Links
Custom Firmware Fixes: You can find specific firmware archives and custom reset services at ORPYS or through technical guides provided by eReset
Service & Troubleshooting: For deep technical resets or hardware issues, refer to the Elektrotanya Service Manual
or seek expert advice from community forums like JustAnswer.
Samsung ML-2160 series (including 2165, 2160W, and 2165W ), firmware "resets" are typically used to bypass toner chip requirements, allowing you to use refilled cartridges without seeing "toner empty" errors. Firmware Reset Resources
To perform a reset, you need specific information from your printer reports, including the Serial Number CRUM number , and current Firmware Version Firmware Fix Services : Third-party sites like
provide custom "fix" files often based on your specific printer ID. Original Firmware
: If you need to revert to factory settings, original files can be found on ORPYS Original Firmware List or through HP Support , which now manages Samsung printer software. How to Reset (Basic Steps) Samsung ML-2160 Firmware - ORPYS
A firmware reset (often called a "fix" or "chipless" firmware) for the Samsung ML-2160 series allows the printer to operate without the toner cartridge's communication chip. This is primarily used to bypass "Toner Exhausted" errors and enable the use of low-cost refilled or third-party cartridges. Understanding the Firmware Reset
Standard Samsung cartridges contain a CRUM chip. This chip counts pages and "locks" the printer once a certain limit is reached, even if ink remains. A firmware reset modifies the printer's internal software to ignore this chip signal. Supported Models ML-2160 / ML-2165: Standard USB models. ML-2160W / ML-2165W: Wireless-enabled models. 🛠️ Step 1: Identify Your Printer Data
Firmware fixes are unique to each machine. You must collect three pieces of data before searching for a reset file: Firmware Version: (e.g., V3.00.01.14). CRUM Number: An 11-digit serial unique to the toner chip.
Serial Number: The 15-character ID found on the back of the printer.
How to get this: Hold the Print Screen (or WPS) button for about 10–15 seconds until the status light flashes rapidly, then release. It will print a Configuration Report and a Supplies Information page. ⚡ Step 2: Preparing for the Reset
Connect via USB: Do not attempt a firmware flash over Wi-Fi.
Remove other USB devices: Unplug extra scanners or printers.
Stable Power: Ensure your computer and printer won't lose power during the 2-minute process. The Ultimate Guide to Firmware Reset for Samsung
Original Driver: Ensure the official Samsung/HP drivers are installed so the PC recognizes the device. 📥 Step 3: The Reset Process
Once you have obtained the specific firmware file (.hd or .fls) and a "USBPRNS2.exe" uploader tool: Enter Download Mode: Turn the printer off.
Hold the Print Screen/WPS button and the Power button simultaneously. Release when the status LED glows orange/green. Upload the File:
On your PC, click and drag the firmware file (.hd) onto the usbprns2.exe icon. A command prompt window will appear showing the progress. The Update:
The printer lights will blink rapidly. Do not touch the printer. The printer will restart automatically when finished. ⚠️ Important Precautions
The "Tape" Trick: After a successful reset, you must cover the chip on the toner cartridge with electrical tape or remove it entirely. This prevents the printer from trying to update the chip data again.
Warranty: Applying custom firmware usually voids the manufacturer's warranty.
Firmware Version Matters: If your version ends in "NU" (Non-Upgradable), standard reset files may not work. Troubleshooting Common Issues
Printer not recognized: Try a different USB port (preferably on the back of the PC) or a shorter USB cable.
Stuck on "Wait Image": This means the printer is ready but hasn't received the file. Check your driver status.
Red Light remains: Ensure the toner chip is covered and there are no paper jams.
If you want to move forward, I can help you identify your specific firmware version or guide you on how to read the configuration report.
While the manual reset clears temporary settings, a deeper corruption requires reflashing the firmware. This is where finding the correct, official support link becomes critical. Users must be cautious, as third-party sites often host corrupted or region-incompatible firmware files.
The most reliable source is Samsung’s successor in printing, HP Support (HP acquired Samsung’s printer business in 2017). The official support portal for these models is hosted under HP’s domain. To perform a firmware update (which acts as a deep reset), navigate to:
support.hp.com -> Search for "Samsung ML-2160" -> Select "Software and Drivers" -> Choose your operating system -> Download the "Firmware Update Utility".
Direct legacy links (verified as of 2025) include:
Note: Always verify that the firmware version is newer than your current version; downgrading is rarely supported.