My first question would be is the printer software compatible with the OS? You didn't mention what version of Windows that you are using. I have dealt with Brother units over the years and have found them to be fairly decent, especially the Laser units..BUT the software can be a little hokey. I'd go to the Brother site and see if there aren't updates to the software for your OS. It is not that unusual to get a bad cartridge out of the package, I've had that happen several times over the years, especially with HP OEM. I have had pretty bad results with aftermarket refills and opt NOT to use them. But the first thing I'd look at would be the software load, assuming you have the load disk and assuming it is compatible with your OS, I'd purge the old software installation and reload it...If that doesn't cut it, then there's a chance the unit might be bad. First things first. Best of luck...