Printing to Non-Default Printer Causes Errors/Corrupt Output

 Last reviewed: November 21, 1994
Article ID: Q93154
The information in this article applies to:
  • Microsoft Windows operating system versions 3.1, 3.11
  • Microsoft Windows for Workgroups versions 3.1, 3.11

SYMPTOMS

If the PSCRIPT.DRV printer driver is installed for more than one type of PostScript printer, printing to a non-default printer may cause printer errors or corrupted printer output.

STATUS

Microsoft has confirmed this to be a problem in Windows and Windows for Workgroups version 3.10 and 3.11. We are researching this problem and will post new information here as it becomes available.

MORE INFORMATION

If your default printer is a PostScript printer using the PSCRIPT.DRV printer driver, and you select another PostScript printer from within an application, your printer output may be corrupted or you may receive printer errors if the default printer driver is a color PostScript printer.

A common error message in this situation indicates an "Offending Command." This error message will occur in a format appropriate to your printer (either printed on a page or indicated by the front panel display of your printer).

WORKAROUND

To work around the printer errors and corrupted printer output, use the Windows Control Panel to select the printer you want to use as the default printer:

  1. From the Control Panel, choose the Printers icon.

  2. Select the printer you want to use to print your document and choose the Set As Default Printer button.

When you want to print to the other printer you will have to change the default printer in the Printers section of Control Panel.

NOTE: If you choose the black and white PostScript printer as the default printer, you will not experience these difficulties. If you select the black and white printer as the default printer, you can select a printer from within an application and the color commands will be issued to the printer correctly.

KBCategory: kbprint kbdisplay kbbuglist
KBSubcategory: win31 wfw wfwg
Additional reference words: 3.10

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Last reviewed: November 21, 1994
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