Epson Picture Mate 500 Continuous Ink System (T557 series cartridges) The UCI System consists of a high-capacity ink reservoir (same as using between 5-8 ink cartridges per color) that is attached to a cartridge via secure tubing. The tubing acts as a vacuum to extract ink from the reservoir and keep the cartridge full of ink. Because of the large reservoir capacity, you can print for an extended period of time without running low right away. There is a red line on the reservoir to indicate when it is time to refill. This system comes complete with easy-to-follow instructions, ink, and all accessories needed to successfully use the system. The included cartridges have a permanent smart chip already installed, which will automatically reset itself when your printer power is turned off (for 5 seconds) and turned back on. No mess! No leaking! Not only do you get the Uni-kit Continuous Ink System but you will receive an an abundance of ink to get you started.