Are you installing Windows XP specific drivers or some older Win 98/Me drivers?  You must have Windows XP specific drivers, the older drivers are incompatible and will not work.  I ask this, as I know most of the older Compaq branded printers do not have XP drivers and are not compatible.  There are many posts on the Compaq (HP) user support forum because no Windows XP drivers are available.

I bought the printer maybe three years ago or so.  I now see in the Compaq manual that the requirements are Win 98 2nd edition, Win Millennium or Win 2000.  So I guess this means I also have to buy a printer?  I really appreciate your help!!!!

Yes, you will have to buy a new Windows XP compatible printer.  The joys of upgrading to XP

hi guys,

           just a thought.  Might try windows 2000 driver for the printer, since I've used them before for devices that didn't have an xp driver at the time.  Alot of manufacturers weren't xp logo certified during the inital release of xp, yet the drivers would still work.

                                                    If they don't work , then can still purchase a new printer.

                                                                                         MW