Epson Stylus Photo RX500 printer?

For a couple of weeks I have had an on screen pop-up saying there is a printer error, please check my documentation. I now cannot print and the digital read-out on the printer says 'Printer error - see documentation ad get service call if necessary'. There is nowhere in my manual that gives me the answer to this. Any ideas what it could be? I understand that it could be the purge unit and that heads need cleaning? Is this something I could do myself? I have only used compatible cartridges lately but don't think this is related. Please advise. Thanks.

Paula
March 2010