Executive summary
Canon Service Tool v5204 (ST v5204) is a Windows-based maintenance/reset utility widely circulated in repair communities since about mid-2018. It’s used to place supported Canon inkjet printers into service mode, read/write EEPROM, reset waste-ink (absorber) counters, run various maintenance operations (cleaning cycles, platen/chassis movements), and dump or restore firmware-related values. The tool is not an official consumer download from Canon; distributions are typically packaged and redistributed by third parties, sold on small webshops, shared on forums, or hosted on file-sharing links.
The tool will not work unless your printer is first placed in Service Mode manually. The most common method is: Turn the printer off.
Connection: The program works exclusively via a USB connection; it cannot communicate with printers over Wi-Fi. Operating System: It is designed for Windows environments.
: Resets the internal counter for the ink absorber (often called the "pamper" or "absorber"). Service Mode Interaction
Regional Settings: Changing the printer's region or ink counter behavior. Compatible Models
Step 2: Enter Service Mode
You cannot use the tool if the printer is in normal mode. You must put the printer into Service Mode manually. This process generally follows this pattern (varies slightly by model):
Hold the Stop/Reset (triangle) button, then press and hold Power.
: Usually means the printer is not in Service Mode or the USB connection is unstable. to put your printer into Service Mode for this tool? Canon service tool: v5204 or latest? - PrinterKnowledge
