Windows XP does not recognize HP Laserjet 4P.

[sunwindandsea]

I have a Gateway 1.8 GHz PC with 768 MB of RAM running Windows XP Professional and an HP LaserJet 4P. Windows XP does not recognize the HP LaserJet 4P on LPT1. I also have been HP DeskJet 970Cse connected using a USB port to this PC. I have tried the many scenarios the two that best illustrates the problem are described below

I deleted all printer drivers and all existing printers. It turned off the PC and turned off the printer. I rebooted with neither printer connected to the PC. I shut down to the PC again. I connected the HP LaserJet 4 P. 2 LPT1 on the PC and turned on my system. Windows XP did not recognize the hardware change.

I reinstalled Windows XP.

I have not turned on System Restore and it would not help since the PC running Windows XP has never recognized the HP LaserJet 4 P.

Thank you for any help.
SunWindSea

 

[sunwindandsea]

PS: I have also tried removing the drivers in File, Server Properties, Drivers. XP still does not recognize LPT1.

The file is sent to correct print que and the Message "Error - Printing."

Yes, I have tried "Auto" and "Enable" in the BIOS. No luck.

 

[BeckahC]

Have you checked the HP website for updated XP drivers? BeckahC
X-)

 

[sunwindandsea]

Beckah (Pretty name) I used the drivers that were included with Windows XP. Yes, I checked and HP does not offer Windows XP drivers for the HP LaserJet 4 series.

Thank you for your reply.

Sun Wind and Sea

 

[BeckahC]

I had a similar problem back when I upgraded my home pc to 2K pro - I had the only scanner that doesn't have a driver for 2K made by HP. I'm sorry I couldn't be of any help. BeckahC
X-)

 

[pbwarrior]

I don't know if you have tried this, BUT, the 4P may not be plug and play.

Have you tried adding the printer manually?

I know that the 4 is not plug and play. I have added Laser Jet 4s, 4+, and 4Vs manually and they have all worked.

 

[sunwindandsea]

Yes, I tried to add the printer mannually.

Ed