This is where the becomes a controversial but valuable tool. It allows you to reset the counter without replacing the pad temporarily.

The Epson L3150 uses an integrated ink tank system. Over thousands of prints, some ink is purged during cleaning cycles and ends up in a sponge-like inside the printer. Epson programs the printer to stop working after approximately 8,000 to 15,000 pages to prevent actual ink from leaking out of the chassis.

The printing stopped. A dialog box popped up on Leo’s screen, flashing a red exclamation mark.

First, the was not a hack or a crack; it was a maintenance tool. It allowed him to bypass the arbitrary digital lock on his device. However, he knew he couldn't use it forever. The waste ink pads do actually fill up eventually.