摘要 |
<p>A first computer program generates a code encoding a date when the code was generated, an at least substantially unique identifier of a consumable item for an image-forming device, and usage information regarding the consumable item. The at least substantially unique identifier and the usage information are retrieved from a memory of the consumable item. Upon a user returning the consumable item for warranty purposes, a second computer program decodes the code to obtain the date, the at least substantially unique identifier, and the usage information. The second computer program determines whether to entitle the consumable item for warranty purposes based on the date, the at least substantially unique identifier, and the usage information. The second computer program outputs whether the consumable item should be entitled for warranty purposes.</p> |