The US still does this today via the MIC:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Machine_Identification_Code
That's why your color printer cannot print in B&W when you're out of color ink (or at least one reason).
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Machine_Identification_Code
That's why your color printer cannot print in B&W when you're out of color ink (or at least one reason).
Inkjet printers are far more likely to not let you print without color ink, because they need to add the color inks to produce a darker black. Laser printers are far more likely to let you print without color toner (and as such, I've never worked with a laser printer that requires non-empty color toner cartridges), because they don't need to add additional colors for black.