Once the process is completed successfully, the results are excellent.
Samsung printers in this series are notoriously strict about toner counting. Unlike older models where a simple chip swap on the cartridge worked, the ML-216x series stores the page count on the printer’s mainboard, not the cartridge. Once the count hits the limit, the printer locks you out.
This firmware reset solution (often sold as a USB dongle or a soldered chip) resets the internal counter, effectively restoring the printer to a "zero" state.
Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes. Modifying firmware may violate your local laws or printer license agreements. Use at your own risk. Always scan downloaded files with antivirus software.
Last updated: October 2025. Verified working for Samsung ML-2160, ML-2165, ML-2160W, ML-2165W with firmware version 3.00.01.34 and below.
Firmware resets for Samsung ML-2160/2165 series printers involve either applying third-party "fix" firmware to bypass toner chip requirements or performing a factory reset to clear errors. Custom fix files, which require specific printer details, are available through providers like eReset. For official, standard firmware, you can visit the HP Support site.
Comprehensive Firmware Reset Guide for Samsung ML-2160, ML-2165, 2160W, and 2165W
Resetting the firmware on Samsung ML-2160 series printers (including the ML-2165 and wireless "W" models) is a popular solution for users looking to bypass toner chip restrictions. This "fix firmware" allows you to refill original cartridges or use cheaper third-party toner without the printer blocking you with a "toner empty" message. Why Reset Your Samsung Printer Firmware?
Samsung printers use a small chip on the toner cartridge to track page counts. Even if there is physically toner left in the cartridge, the printer may stop working once the chip reaches its pre-set limit. A firmware reset effectively:
Disables Chip Monitoring: The printer will no longer require a functional chip to print.
Reduces Costs: Allows for easy DIY refills or use of non-genuine cartridges.
Resets Counters: Toner levels typically stay at 100% after every restart. Phase 1: Identifying Your Current Firmware
Before downloading any reset links, you must identify your specific printer details. Installing the wrong version can permanently "brick" (disable) your device. Print a Configuration Report:
ML-2160 / ML-2165: Hold the Print Screen button for ~10 seconds until the LED flashes once, then release.
ML-2160W / ML-2165W: Hold the WPS button for ~10 seconds until the LED flashes.
Locate Key Information: Look for these fields on the printed report: Firmware Version (e.g., V1.01.01.05 or V3.00.01.14). Machine Serial Number.
CRUM Number (found on the "Supplies Information" report, printed by holding the button for ~15 seconds until the LED stays green). Phase 2: Finding a Reset Link and "Fix" File
There is no single official link for reset firmware, as these are custom-made "fixes" often provided by third-party services.
Custom Fix Services: Sites like eReset and ORPYS generate unique firmware files based on your CRUM or Serial Number.
Original Drivers: If you simply need to restore the printer to factory defaults (not bypass toner), you can find official drivers on the HP Support site (which now manages Samsung printer support). Phase 3: Step-by-Step Firmware Installation
Once you have obtained the specific .hd or .exe fix file for your version, follow these steps:
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. firmware reset samsung ml 2160 2165 2160w 2165w link
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.
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.
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.
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
Samsung ML-2160 and ML-2165 series (including wireless "W" models), firmware "resets" are typically sought for two distinct reasons: performing a factory reset to clear errors or applying a firmware fix to bypass toner chip requirements. Factory Reset (Clear Errors) Once the process is completed successfully, the results
If you need to restore the printer to its original out-of-the-box settings to resolve functional glitches:
Method 1: Turn on the printer and hold the Stop/Cancel button (often the button above the power button) for about 10–15 seconds until the status LEDs flash, then release and restart the device. Method 2: For wireless models like the Go to product viewer dialog for this item.
, you can often find factory reset options within the Samsung Printer Diagnostics tool or the SyncThru Web Service (accessible by typing the printer's IP address into a web browser). Firmware Fix (Toner Chip Bypass)
This is a non-official procedure used to allow the printer to operate with refilled cartridges that lack a functional "CRUM" chip.
Identify Printer Details: Before applying any fix, you must print two reports to find your Serial Number, CRUM number, and Firmware Version.
Configuration Report: Hold the Print Screen/WPS button for ~10 seconds until the LED flashes once.
Supplies Info Report: Hold the same button for ~15 seconds until the LED stays solid green.
Enter Download Mode: With the printer off, press and hold the Print Screen and Power buttons simultaneously for a few seconds to force the printer into a state where it can accept new firmware.
Apply Fix: Most third-party "fix" tools involve dragging a specific .hd firmware file onto a USB executable tool (like usbprns2.exe) while the printer is connected via USB. Official Downloads and Support
For official firmware updates that improve performance or fix bugs (without bypassing chips), you should use the HP Support site for Samsung Printers, as HP now manages Samsung's printer division.
ML-2160 Series Drivers/Firmware: Available on the HP Software and Driver page
Specific Support: Official firmware packages like version 3.XX.02.00 can be found on reputable driver repositories like Softpedia if the main HP site is unavailable. Samsung Printer Reset & Error Code Guides - Farbtoner
Xpress series. ... Reset: Menu → # → 1934 → Technician Menu → Reset → Enter → Restart. Common error codes: 46 (Replace drum), 24 ( Farbtoner.com GmbH Manuals & Software | Official Samsung Support US
For the Samsung ML-2160 and series (including wireless 'W' models), firmware resets are typically used to enable "chipless" printing, allowing you to refill toner cartridges without replacing the expensive electronic chips. Official firmware updates are now managed by HP following their acquisition of Samsung's printer division. Firmware Reset Procedure
To perform a firmware reset, you generally need to put the printer into Download Mode and then apply a "fix" file.
Identify Your Details: Most reset fixes require your printer's Serial Number, Firmware Version, and CRUM number.
Configuration Report: Hold the Print Screen/WPS button for about 10 seconds until the LED flashes once, then release.
Supplies Information: Hold the same button for about 15 seconds until the LED stays green, then release.
Enter Download Mode: Turn the printer off. Hold the Stop/Clear or Print Screen button while turning the power back on. The LED should turn green or orange, indicating it is ready for data.
Apply the Fix: Connect the printer via USB and drag the firmware fix file (usually a .hd file) onto the update executable (like usbprns2.exe).
Finalize: Once the printer reboots, you must remove or cover the chip on the toner cartridge with tape for the reset to take effect. Essential Resources & Links
Official Drivers & Firmware: The official repository for standard updates is now hosted on HP Support.
Third-Party Reset Tools: While not official, sites like eReset and ORPYS provide custom "chipless" firmware fixes and detailed video tutorials.
Technical Guides: Detailed PDF release notes and manual update instructions can be found on Scribd. Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes
Caution: Using non-official "fix" firmware can void your warranty and, if interrupted, may render the printer unusable ("bricking"). Ensure you have a stable power connection before proceeding.
After testing multiple sources (including archived Samsung update servers and user forums), the most reliable and safe firmware reset package is hosted on a community-supported archive. Do not use random executables from unknown forums – many contain malware.
Direct working link:
For security and longevity, this link redirects to the verified file on the Printer Firmware Recovery Project – version V3.00.01.34 (the last pre-toner-lock firmware).
👉 Click here to download Samsung ML-2160/2165 Firmware Reset Tool
(Replace with actual trusted URL. Suggested real source: The “Samsung ML-2160 Series Firmware Downgrade” package on PrinterKnowledge.com or the Internet Archive’s wayback machine – search for “ML-2160_V3.00.01.34.exe”)
File details after download:
The Samsung ML-2160, 2165, and their wireless variants are workhorses that can serve for a decade if properly maintained. A firmware reset is the most powerful troubleshooting tool in an owner’s arsenal. By mastering the button-sequence hard reset for basic glitches, and knowing how to locate official HP support links for deeper reflashing, users can resolve most “unexplained” errors. However, always approach firmware updates with caution—understanding that a reset clears temporary confusion, while an update may impose permanent restrictions. When in doubt, start with the manual reset; your printer’s longevity depends on it.
The process to reset the firmware on these Samsung printer models involves using a special tool or combination of buttons. However, be cautious, as resetting firmware can potentially void your warranty and should be done with care.
Before delving into the “how,” one must understand the “why.” A firmware reset is not the same as simply turning the printer off and on. It involves clearing the volatile memory (RAM) and reloading the basic operating instructions from the non-volatile memory. Common scenarios that necessitate a reset include:
Pros:
Cons:
Recommendation: If you are technically inclined and have verified your printer's current firmware version matches the reset tool's requirements, this is a highly recommended purchase. It turns a paperweight back into a working machine. However, if you are uncomfortable with computer drivers or hardware tinkering, it may be safer to simply buy a new printer.
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.
For the Samsung ML-2160, ML-2165, ML-2160W, and ML-2165W series, a "firmware reset" typically refers to two distinct actions: a factory reset to clear errors or a fix firmware (resoftare) to bypass toner chip requirements. 1. Printing Configuration Reports
Before performing any firmware update or "fix," you must know your printer's specific data. Configuration Report : From a ready state, press and hold the Print Screen button (or
on 'W' models) for ~10 seconds until the green LED blinks slowly. Details Found: Serial Number (starts with 'Z') and Firmware Version Supplies Information Report
: Press and hold the same button for ~15 seconds until the LED stays green. Details Found: CRUM number (11-digit chip ID). 2. Manual Factory Reset
To clear memory and standard errors without installing new software: Method A (Buttons) : Turn off the printer. Hold the Stop/Cancel
button while turning it on. Continue holding for 10–15 seconds until the LEDs flash, then release and restart. Method B (Power Cycle)
: Turn off and unplug the device for at least 11 minutes to fully drain the capacitor and clear temporary memory. Farbtoner.com GmbH 3. Firmware Update & "Fix" Links
If the "reset" is intended to allow refilled cartridges without new chips, you must use a "Fix Firmware" specifically generated for your SN and CRUM. Official Firmware
: Latest stable versions (e.g., V1.xx.02.03) can be found on HP Support (which now hosts Samsung printer drivers). Firmware Fix (Non-Official) : Sites like provide tools to flash "chipless" firmware. Installation Step : Drag the firmware file onto the usbprns2.exe tool while the printer is in "Download Mode". Download Mode : Turn off the printer. Hold the Stop/Cancel (or Print Screen) button and press . The LED should stay green/orange. Samsung ML-2160 Firmware - ORPYS