This issue happens when the waste ink pad counter reaches its maximum capacity. Canon programs its printers to lock down to prevent physical ink overflow.

Here’s why:

The free download may still be out there, but the risk involved in the search is not a minor one. For the safety and longevity of both your computer and your printer, the most prudent path is almost always the official one.

The software only resets the digital counter inside the printer; it does not physically clean the ink. If you reset the counter without replacing the physical waste pads, excess ink will eventually overflow, damaging your desk, carpets, and the printer's internal electrical circuits. How to Safely Handle the "Ink Absorber Full" Error

Allows you to read or write printer configuration data.

The tool is a legitimate piece of software that interacts with your printer's low-level system in a way that some antivirus programs can misinterpret as suspicious. This leads to many false positive detections. However, a legitimate purchased copy is much less likely to contain actual malware.

Extract the archive file using a utility like WinRAR or 7-Zip.

(Error 5B00). While highly sought after for extending the life of Canon Pixma and G-series printers, users should approach "free download" links with extreme caution. ⚠️ Essential Security & Functional Warnings Malware Risk

Allows viewing and resetting specific absorber values (e.g., Main, Platen).

: Release the Stop button only (keep holding Power). Press the Stop button exactly 5 times (or 6 times for specific G-series models). The alarm LED will alternate between green and orange with each press. Release Power : Release the Power button.