Reference number: CH000441

Installing a PC parallel port computer printer.

Question:

Installing a PC parallel port computer printer.

Answer:

Buying tips and help
Before getting started
Connect cables
Set mode in BIOS
Install Software / Drivers
Troubleshooting

Memory buying tips

If you have not already purchased the printer please see our printer buying tips section help before continuing.

Before getting started

1. Difficulty of installing computer printer should be a 1 out of 5.
2. When connecting the printer, ensure the computer is off.

Connect cables 

Note: If you have any parallel devices such as a scanner, zip drive, etc... connected to the computer, we recommend that you temporarily disconnect these devices while installing the printer to help prevent issues or the printer from being detected. Once the printer is successfully working these devices can be connected.

Begin first by connecting the parallel data cable to the back of the printer. Once connected, follow that cable to the back of the computer and connect it to the parallel port. When connecting the printer be careful not to disconnect any other cables. If cables need to be disconnected to access the parallel port, ensure that those cables are connected back to the place that they were disconnected from.

Once the data cable has been successfully connected to the computer and printer, connect the power cable to the printer.

Set mode in BIOS

Once the computer and printer have been successfully connected and turned on, as the computer is booting, enter the BIOS setup. Verify within the setup that the LPT port mode is properly set. Today, most printers will work off of any printer port mode. Unless your computer manufacturer specifies a specific printer port, we recommend that Bi-Directional be selected if available.

Additional help and information about BIOS can be found on our BIOS page.

Install Software / Drivers

When a printer is purchased it should be included with drivers used to install the support for the printer with your operating system. Once you have followed the above steps, use the diskettes or CD to install your printer drivers to allow the computer to work properly.

If your printer did not include drivers or you believe that the printer drivers do not work, please visit our printer drivers page for a listing of computer printers as well as links to where to download the drivers.

Note: Software is different from drivers, many printers may come packaged with bonus software to allow your printer to perform special features. Generally, installing this software will not setup the printer. Additionally, this software is not required therefore if you do not wish to install this software your printer should still work. However, drivers are almost always required.

Troubleshooting

If additional issues are encountered during or after the installation of the computer printer, please refer to our main printer page for additional help and information.