Error Writing to Port in AutoCAD

 Last reviewed: June 27, 1996
Article ID: Q150343
The information in this article applies to:
  • Microsoft Windows NT operating system version 3.1
  • Microsoft Windows NT Advanced Server version 3.1
  • Microsoft Windows NT Workstation versions 3.5 and 3.51
  • Microsoft Windows NT Server versions 3.5 and 3.51

SYMPTOMS

When you try to plot a file using AutoCAD R13 under Windows NT, the following error message appears: 

   Error writing to LPTx the device is not ready

CAUSE

Autocad defaults to its own AUTOSPOOL feature, which requires the LPT port to be free. If you already have a printer defined in Print Manager to print to that port, you may get the above error.

RESOLUTION

You can configure AutoCAD to plot directly to the default printer set in Print Manager by configuring AutoCAD for System Printer ADI. The System Printer and System Printer Settings can be changed. In the Plot dialog box, open the Device and Default selection dialog box and use the Change Device Requirements.

KBCategory:
KBSubcategory: ntsrvwkst
Additional reference words:

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Last reviewed: June 27, 1996
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