Why Isn't My Computer Printing?

By: Conchita Reid

Murphy's Law dictates that when you need your printer the most it will seem to have a mind of its own. You hit several buttons on your printer with no response. The printer has gone haywire and you are wits end. Before you throw the printer out the window to its death, take a look at the following printing problems that could be at the root of this situation.

All computer hardware needs software to tell it how to operate and what to do. This software is called a driver. If your system has crashed or has suffered from a power surge, it is possible that your driver is no longer installed. If you have recently installed a new printer, you will have to install a driver in order for it to work as well.

Sometimes, the printer just plain runs out of ink. You can generally find this out by clicking on the properties icon of your printer. If the printer is out of ink, you will need to replace it with the same ink cartridge as is in the printer. It is a good idea to take the old cartridge with you to the store when buying the ink because there are a lot to choose from and it is easy to pick up the wrong one.

Check the ink level in your print. Is it out? If it is then you need to head to the office supply store for a new ink cartridge. Make sure write down the name or even bring the old ink cartridge to the store so that you buy the correct ink cartridge. This is a good idea because it is easy to purchase the incorrect ink cartridge.

If you find that your printer was out of paper prior to initiating the printing process, simply sticking more paper in fails to do anything. Again, you will probably need to hit the paper feed or reset button before it will function properly. Sometimes, you may just have to print the job over again.

Do you have paper in the printer paper tray? Seems logical, but sometimes the paper runs out and you don't notice it. Make sure to add paper and hit the paper feed button to get the printing process under way. You can also cancel the print job, refill the paper, and then create a new print job.

Did you check the computer to printer physical connection? Your job may keep you busy all day and the connection between the printer and computer may have come unplugged. It's funny how something as basic as this problem are not noticed.

Having troubles with your printer can cause you to reach for extra-strength Tylenol. Remember to remain calm when your printer goes haywire even if you are tempted to throw it out the window. Go through the possible printer problems listed above to help you print your documents once again.

Dealing with the moodiness of your printer can be avoided if you go through the possible causes listed above. Of course printing problems occur at the worst moment possible, but you can make life better by remaining cool and collected. Try this solutions and if they don't work then maybe your printer is ready for the printing graveyard.

Article Source: http://www.retirementlivingarticledirectory.com

About the author: Conchita Reid writes exclusively for Reid Printing, it's one of the webs most up to date Printing sites, why not sign up for the free Printing newsletter. Want to read more Printing articles?, just go to: www.reidprinting.com/articles
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