Most Laser Printer toner cartridges are rigged with an infrared sensor that detects when the cartridge is depleted of fluid. In most cases, the printer will stop functioning once it detects a depleted cartridge although the cartridge isn’t actually empty. This is a great “bug” for the guy selling you toner however not so good for you the consumer.

No worries — I have a groovyHack for ya which will keep you up and running even after your printer detects a so-called “depleted” toner cartridge.

The first step is to get a single sticky note. If you don’t have one of these a piece of duct tape or electrical tape should do it; anything that is small and blocks light will work.

The next step is to adjust the size of the paper so that it will fit into the side of the toner. I’m using a Brother HL 2270DW toner cartridge and 1/4 piece of a sticky note fit it perfectly.

If you look at the size of your printers toner cartridge you should see a small glass circle where the light passes through. This is the hole we need to block so we can trick the printer into thinking the cartridge is full.

Insert the sticky note piece into the side so that it isn’t in the way of any gears, but blocks the sensor.

Once fully inserted your toner should be good to go. Just plug it back into your printer and enjoy another 20-40 percent more toner that is still sitting in the cartridge.

Do you have any useful printer tips or similar groovyHacks? Send in your tips via email to tips@groovypost.com or just drop them in the comments section below!