new computer,printer doesn't work!!!?

Question

I am helping friend with new computer and the Windows XP recognizes printer but it doesn't work, should we use cd that come with printer to install?
Do we have to change anything first if so ?
Thanks

I can't remember model, I will be going to his place today. I know it is a HP PSC purchased within last year. It worked on other computer but he used cd it was a Windows 98 Computer with limited Memory.

Answer 1

Hi. Windows XP has a wide database of hardware drivers but then, not all of hardware manufacturers were included in this database. The best thing to do is to check the compatibility of your operating system with the printer driver that comes in a CD together upon purchase of your printer. If it's not compatible or if you're in doubt, go directly to the manufacturer's web site. I'm very sure that drivers for every operating system are available for download. Pick the one compatible with yours, download and install it. Hope it works. If not, problem might be on the timeout settings where in a time alotted for the computer to communicate and send the print file to the printer is defined.

Answer 2

Check the manuals that came with the printer. Quite often, it comes with a Quick Start guide.

Try putting the CD into the CD drive and see if you get better instructions.

By the way, many printers work a bit differently, so it would help if you told us what brand and model.

You also did not give us the details. Does anything LIGHT UP when you turn the printer on? Did you install the cartridges? Did you connect the printer cable? Is it an old parallel printer type, or USB type? (Don't connect both). When you installed the cartridges, did you remove the protective tape that cover the electrical contacts?

Good luck

Answer 3

always run the CD first...usually it will prompt you to plug the device in at the appropriate time. Unplug ur device and run the CD.

Answer 4

never connect any usb device without running the disc that came with the device first