Dell Laser Printer Parallel Cable Communication Failure

Table of Contents:

1. Dell Laser Printer Parallel Cable Communication Failure

This article provides information on "Dell Laser Printer Parallel Cable Communication Failure"

1. Dell Laser Printer Parallel Cable Communication Failure

1. Verify that the problem is happening on the computer that is directly connected to the printer.
2. Reseat both ends of the parallel cable to ensure that it is properly connected.
3. Verify that the printer is connected directly to the computer, and remove any devices between the computer and the printer, such as switchboxes.
4. Verify that the correct printer port is selected on the Ports tab in Printer Properties.
5. Verify that the parallel cable is less than 10 ft (3 m) long, and is IEEE 1284 compliant.
6. Try swapping with a known-good parallel cable. If a known-good cable works, please contact Dell Technical Support if it was purchased from Dell.
7. Uninstall and reinstall the printer driver software.
8. Ensure that the parallel port mode is set to ECP in System Setup (BIOS).
9. Check the BIOS version of the computer, and update to the latest BIOS version.
10. Attempt to print from DOS:
    1. Start the computer with a bootable DOS disk, such as a Dell Resource CD or DVD. The Windows command prompt will not work to perform this test.
    2. At the command prompt, type DIR > LPT1, and then press <Enter>.
    3. If the printer successfully prints, all hardware is functioning properly, and the operating system should be reinstalled.
11. Try to swap with a known-good printer of the same model, if available.
    • A known-good printer does not work: The computer requires further troubleshooting for a parallel port problem.
    • A known-good printer works, or is not available: Please contact Dell Technical Support.

If these steps do not correct the problem, please contact Dell Technical Support.