How to Troubleshoot Common Printer Problems?

Printers have become an integral part of every computer users nowadays. In most of the cases, it is seen whoever buys a new computer they also buy a printer too. Going to the local store to get a print out is passé now be it a document or a family photo. Markets are full of different types of printer fitting every customer's requirements.

Likewise issues with printers have also increased a lot. More the number of users more are the issues. For getting printer support we talk to a computer services company in most of the cases. But one thing should be noted that there are many issues which can be fixed by the user himself/herself. In fact, you don't require having a great deal of expertise for troubleshooting these common printer problems. If you have basic understanding of the print process and some information, you can easily resolve these printer problems.

Let's have a look at some of such issues.

Whether it is an inkjet or a laser printer, communication issues are one of the basic issues while printing. Communication issues can happen due to many reasons. There a multiple possibilities. Here are a few of them:

• cable connection
• port issues
• software
• spooler
• print processor

Hardware issues like the USB cable connection, or the USB connectors (ports) on either side be it the computer USB ports or on the printer itself, though the ports on the PC are found to be more problematic compared to the port on the printer. If it is a PC USB port, it is usually fixable by configuring them or updating drivers but if it is the port on the printer then it is tough luck, the printer needs to be replaced. Consulting an expert is also a good idea in this regard.

Another common hardware issue is paper jam issue. Be it an inkjet or a laser printer, paper jam is common on both. This could happen due to incorrect paper placements or the rollers on the printer.

Then there are cartridge or toner issues. Cartridges/toners can leak sometimes, though that's very rare.

Software issues are more varied. Starting from communication issues to spooler everything falls under software. Besides, there are multiple error messages which have different ways of troubleshooting.

If the printer driver has been improperly installed or might have been installed incorrectly due to various reasons on the computer then it can cause communication issues. In such cases uninstalling and reinstalling the printer driver usually fixes the problem.

Nowadays printer drivers get installed once the disc is run after connecting the printer with the USB port of the computer. But sometimes, the drivers don't get installed automatically. In these cases, we are required to install the printer driver manually.

As far the topic goes, Printer Problems - it is a vast topic. Printer problems are varied. From hardware to software everything could be a reason for not printing. Not only this, if it is not printing correctly then also it is termed as printer problem.