: If an archive requires a password to open, scan the extracted contents immediately before running them.
MP230, MP250, MP280, MP287, MP490, MP550, MP640
When your Canon printer suddenly stops working and displays a cryptic error code like or 5B00 , it usually means one thing: the internal waste ink absorber counter has reached its maximum limit. Instead of taking your printer to an expensive service center or buying a new machine, you can resolve this issue yourself using specialized software.
The is a technician-level software used to reset internal printer settings, most commonly the "Ink Absorber Full" error (codes like 5B00 or 5200). While it is available for "free download" on various third-party sites, it is not an official public release from Canon and carries significant risks if not used correctly. How the Service Tool v3200 Works
Ensure your printer is securely connected to your computer via a . (Service Tools rarely work properly over a wireless or network connection). Open the Canon Service Tool v3200 software on your PC.
Understanding Canon Service Tool v3200: Functionality, Risks, and Legal Alternatives
Canon printers are engineered with built-in absorbent pads designed to collect excess ink during the printhead priming and cleaning processes. Over time, the printer's internal firmware calculates that these pads are saturated.
Ensure your printer is connected directly to your Windows PC via a . The tool will not work over Wi-Fi or network connections. Extract the contents of the downloaded ZIP archive.
Trigger maintenance cycles directly from your PC. Compatible Printer Models
If you own a Canon inkjet printer, you’ve likely encountered the dreaded “Ink Absorber Full” or “Waste Ink Pad Full” error message. For many popular Canon models (including the Pixma MG2500, MG2400, MX490, and TS3100 series), this error effectively bricks your device. The official fix? A costly trip to a service center. The alternative? A controversial but widely sought-after piece of software known as the .
+-----------------------------------------------------------+ | Canon Service Tool v3200 | +-----------------------------------------------------------+ | [ Main ] [ EEPROM ] [ Auto ] [ Operation ] | | | | Clear Ink Counter | | Absorber: [ Main v ] => Click [ Set ] | | | | Ink Absorber Counter | | Counter Value (%) [ 0 ] => Click [ Set ] | +-----------------------------------------------------------+ Look at the top section labeled .
Canon printers are reliable workhorses, but they have a built-in safety mechanism that can suddenly halt your printing. If your printer has stopped working, is flashing an alternating green and orange light, and displays an or "Ink Absorber Full" message on your computer, you do not need to buy a new machine.
The tool is compatible with Windows 7, Windows 10, and Windows 11. It supports both 32-bit and 64-bit systems.
Canon does not release this tool to consumers. Any download you find is from unofficial third-party sources.
The V3200 version (also written as v3.200) is one of the most widely shared and trusted versions of the Service Tool, largely because it works with a broad range of Canon PIXMA printers and is compatible with both 32-bit and 64-bit Windows systems.