Need help with parallel port printer

[eSDee]

Hey Gurus I am having trouble with a computer that is using a parallel port printer. I get an error that says "the computer cannot establish communication with the printer". Of course I have checked the connections, and in the Control Panels->System->Device Manager, the LPT port shows no conflicts. Is there a way I can probe this port or test communication further? The computer is using Windows 98.

Thanks in advance.

[Kevster]

Have you checked the BIOS settings to make sure you have the right settings for the parallel port? They might need to be set to bi-directional.

[OC]

Make sure the printer is on and the data and power cables are good.

-OC

[eSDee]

Originally posted by overclocked
Make sure the printer is on and the data and power cables are good.

-OC

Thanks OC I did that first. Kevster I will check the BIOS. Thanks for your input.

[rajatQ2]

try the simpler modes too, like just uni-directional. some printers will not work unless you enable ECP or EPP modes on the printer, its usually in the manual, but who reads those anyway?

I would first suggest plugging the printer in to a different machine to check it out. it will help save you from so many reboots.

after trying to install windowsXP for nearly a week, i will do anything to avoid a reboot. side note: dont try xp if you have complicated stuff in your pc! it is the worst!!!

[topane]

Are you using a IEEE-1284 compliant cable? It should be marked on the cable.

[ride2bhi]

Have you tried hitting it a couple times? Works on my TV...

[eSDee]

Well I tried them all, including kicking the computer. I am going to replace the card and I will let you all know if it worked.

Thanks again for all your input, peeps.

[bugaboo]

Does it work now? What kind of printer is it?

[eSDee]

Nah it's still jacked. I tried moving the card to a different slot, but it didn't work. I am going to have to gut another computer to steal the card from it. Hopefully it will work.

It's a HP Officejet R80.