Network printing problem

[wizcom]

I don't know if this is a Windows ME problem or a networking problem. I networked two PCs running ME. I connected the systems using a crossover cable between the ethernet cards. One of the systems has a Hewlett Packard 720 multifunction printer, fax, copier, scanner unit attached through a parallel port. Printing from that system is no problem. I installed the driver for the printer on the other system and set it up as a network printer. Everytime I try to print from the remote system, I get the following message on the system with the printer attached: There was an error writing to LPT1: for the printer (H.P. Officejet Series 700 Printer) Cannot access the port. It may be in use by another program. Quit other programs & try printing again. There are no other programs running.
Any help would be appreciated.

[paras]

hi there.

this is a typical printer communication problem. there is one practical way to solve it that has worked for me. here it is.

1. try going to the printer panel and see if you have the "test printer communication" button. if so, click on this and see the report generated. it provides some insight into what kinda of problem you are facing.

2. this is the solution.
uninstall the driver for the printer from the "remote" system (i presume that the printer is working fine on the local system).

then go to start > settings > printers > and double click the "add new printer".

select the network printer option (not local printer)....and browse to pick up the network printer....select it.....follow the instructions and the wizard will install the printer for you. print a test page and see.

this solves my problem most of the times.

paras