My printer has stopped working!!!

[SuperShyGuy]

Every time I try and print I get this error:

"There is an error writing to my printer port. Make sure the printer is turned on and online."

Well, it's on and it says it's online. WTF??? It certanly isn't out of paper and if it were out of ink wouldn't it tell me? It's not a huge problem for me, but my mom is trying to write a book on my computer and she needs to be able to print.

P.S. I REALLY can't afford a new printer so any solution would be greatly appreciated.

 

[melmor44]

Some suggestions: Trying checking the printer cable. If the printer is turned on but not connected to the computer then the computer will not be able to "see" the printer.
The printer cable runs from the back of the computer into the printer. Make sure each end of the cable is firmly connected.
Even if the cable appears to be connected you may want to disconnect then re-connect the cable on each end and reboot both the computer and printer.
Good luck.

 

[SuperShyGuy]

Some suggestions: Trying checking the printer cable. If the printer is turned on but not connected to the computer then the computer will not be able to "see" the printer.
The printer cable runs from the back of the computer into the printer. Make sure each end of the cable is firmly connected.
Even if the cable appears to be connected you may want to disconnect then re-connect the cable on each end and reboot both the computer and printer.
Good luck.

Oddly this worked! The cable seemed to be connected just fine, but I took your advice anyway and now I can print again. I don't really get how my seemingly connected cable wasn't connected but whatever. Thanks to melmor44 for the tip.

 

[Lust Engine]

Sometimes there can be a gunk build up on the cable connection. Try taking it apart every now & then just to make sure. Use a pink eraser & rub the metallic parts just to wear off some of the dull sheen that develops over time.

Or sometimes the printer can just be plain fussy.

Go figure.

 

[fgarvb1]

Sometimes Operating systems "lose" things like printers.

I have had some damn place set on scanner or camera insted of printer before. It doesn't happen enough for me to remember where its at.

 

[SuperShyGuy]

Technology. Can't live with it, can't live without it.