Desktop

Ask something
Discussion Locked

WinXP and HP printer problem

0 helpful
5 replies

by berninga

Closed to new repliesThis discussion is closed. It stays readable, but it takes no new replies.

I am having probs with a DeskJet895CXI printer printing sporadically from a desktop WinXP Pro system - connected via usb. I tried the tip I found on HP's website - and disabled the power management function for the usb hub - but no joy. The printer sometimes prints - then sometimes not - then sometimes prints a partial job. HP offers no driver for this printer, it instructs you to use the MS driver, and I have the latest.
Sooo...anyone else having trouble of this sort?
Any suggestions??

This is my bosses system of course...!

Thanks!
Alison

5 replies

by thechas

To be brutally honest, your best option is to replace this printer with a newer model.

The fact that HP does not offer a driver for XP is the key here.

I have not been impressed with any driver that Microsoft has written for other manufactures hardware.

If Microsoft updates one of these drivers, the usual solution to an issue is to disable the feature that causes the problem.

You will also find that the Microsoft driver for most printers only support the most basic printing modes. No special features or options are available.

The only other thought I have is to check the power cord and supply for the printer to make sure that power is not cutting in and out.

Chas

by berninga

I'd love to replace everything - but as I'm at a school, the budget is starved. :) Thanks for your input, it doesn't really help, but it does confirm what I was finding.

by willcomp

Welcome back Chas.

As I recall, the 895C will connect with either USB or parallel cables. Try using a parallel cable and see if problems are resolved. Parallel is much more stable and reliable than USB.

Also, as a general rule, drivers for HP printers that are included in XP were developed by HP. Granted that functionality may be limited, but they usually do work.

Dalton

by berninga

Um...duh, I feel like an idiot - because of course, you are right. It's the simple solutions I manage to overlook sometimes, I was so all caught up in the USB thing that I completely blew off the parallel option. I must need a nap. (or a babysitter to watch me) ;)
Thanks!

This discussion is closed to new replies.