modem stops dialing/printer is connected

Hardware Dell Inspiron 7500 and HP Laserjet series II printer

This is the weirdest thind I have come across in a while. The notebook functions fine with the printer disconected. I can dial the office or my ISP. When I attach the printer the modem makes a few tones and just sits there until it times out. The printer functions as expected when connected to the notebook. HMMMM? Any ideas?
Thanks Mike