A system for detecting the level of a media supply in a printer has a frame having a support for seating the printer thereon. A first light source is positioned on the support and is energizable to direct a first beam of light into the printer. A first detector is positioned on the support and provides an analog signal in response to reflection of the first beam of light from within the printer. A control logic processor is in signal communication with the first detector and compares the analog signal to a stored/predetermined value and reports a low media condition according to the comparison.