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Printer won't print says it's 'idle'

Anonymous
2018-02-11T02:26:45+00:00

Hi all, somehow my computer doesn't seem to be connected to my printer anymore.  To me, it seems to be connected I get the option 'HP LaserJet P1005' yet nothing prints. When I look in print ques, nothings registers, and I've even got the message 'printer is idle'.  Any suggestions where I should look, or what I should try to get my printer to print again?  My computer is an ACER Aspire V.  Thanks for any suggestions offered.

Windows for home | Windows 10 | Devices and drivers

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  1. Sumit 43,786 Reputation points Volunteer Moderator
    2018-02-11T03:02:07+00:00

    Hello,
    Try reinstalling the Printer.
    Right-click Start and select Run.
    In the Run dialog box, type in control printers and press OK.
    Locate your printer in the Printers section, Right click it and select Remove device.
    Restart your PC.
    If you have a setup media of the Printer driver(This is usually a CD or Setup program supplied with the Printer), run the utility and let the Printer Install.
    If you do not have a setup media, try adding a printer manually using "add a printer" button in the menu bar. It should automatically detect and Install the Printer.
    After the Printer Installs, try printing a test page to see if it works as desired.
    Retry the task again.

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  1. Anonymous
    2020-02-28T19:16:35+00:00

    Based on your post on printing, I think that the Microsoft Virtual Agent can help you troubleshoot your issue. It'll walk you through the right troubleshooting steps based on the specific problem you're facing.

    Please let us know if this solved your issue.

    10 people found this answer helpful.
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  1. Anonymous
    2018-02-11T02:42:39+00:00

    You are welcome Matilda. Please do keep us updated with your progress.

    1 person found this answer helpful.
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  1. Anonymous
    2018-02-11T02:32:31+00:00

    Run the Printer Troubleshooter - http://aka.ms/diag_printer10

    If you are using an HP Printer, use the HP Print and Scan Doctor:

    HP Print and Scan Doctor - HP Support

    https://support.hp.com/ph-en/document/c02073861

    Uninstall and Reinstall the Printer

    A. Uninstall the Printer

    Windows Key+X > Apps and Features / Programs and Features

    Select your printer.

    Select Uninstall.

    Windows key+R, type control, hit Enter

    Open Devices and Printers.

    In the Devices and Printers window look for your Printer. If you see it listed, right-click on it and choose Delete or Remove Device

    Windows Key+R, type Cmd, hit Enter

    Type printui.exe /s > OK.

    Click on Drivers tab.

    Look for Printer driver. If you see it click on it and click Remove at the bottom.

    Select OK.

    Select Apply and OK on the Print Server Properties windows.

    Close Devices and Printers.

    Install the Driver

    Go to the Printer manufacturer’s website and search for the latest Windows 10 drivers

    Reinstall the Printer driver

    Reboot the computer

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  2. Anonymous
    2018-02-11T02:38:31+00:00

    Andre Da Costa, wow!  Thanks for all of the information!  I will try it.  But, sadly I won't remember half of these steps, so I will print it off at work and try it on Monday.  I can't thank you enough for your efforts to help me!  Have a lovely evening!

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