Unless, there is a setting that specifically instructs the printer to print in "mono mode" it maybe a lost cause. Even if there is a setting to select mono mode, the idea behind using color ink is to keep the ink nozzles "fresh" and generally prevent clogging from non-use. Overall, there is still less color being used than you think. newer printers no matter what brand all do this. You find a product that offers to defeat this process but usually it may not over the long haul be practical for the reasons i stated. operation of color maybe more of initial clean cycle to get ready but again it prints only in black. Also, should color cart(s) actually become empty, these have to be replaced in order to continue printing as that's part of the process of keeping everything in check. I leave nefarious reasons to you to think up. Sad

tada -----Willy Happy