Problem installing HP 940c printer in XP

Can someone help? I have tried to install a working HP940c printer on a new Dell C521 Desk Top using a USB connection (there is no parallel port) in XP Home. The installation seems to work (although the computer does not recognise a new Plug and Play printer) either via the wizard or manually but on printing a test page, I get about three lines printed and then it returns an error. There is no more communication between the computer and the printer. I have tried using different ports, and downloading a driver from the HP site. Exactly the same. The cable works (using another computer to the same printer), the printer works, the ports work on other peripherals. I am defeated. Is there a problem with the ini files. Help!!