How
to install a new printer in Windows
Free
computer Tips
Windows XP and Windows Vista
If you insert the printer installation disc
first
When
installing new devices onto a computer, like a printer, you will need a
driver to run it. Luckily all new printers you buy nowadays come with an
installation disc. This makes it very easy to install your new printer. If
you insert this printer installation disc the process should start
automatically. There will be step by step instructions on how to install
your new printer. Putting the installation disc in first will not only tell
you when to plug your printer in, but it will also install extra software
for scanning, printing, and copying.
If
the cd does not start automatically you can go to My computer and double
click on the disc icon.
If you plug in the printer first
In
this case your computer will automatically find anything new that is
attached to your computer. Then you will see it finding a driver for your
printer. If it cannot find a driver for your printer in Windows it will ask
you to insert the printer installation disc.
If you want to install the printer without all
the bulky software
The
software that usually comes with new printers takes up allot of space and is
sometimes unnecessary. To avoid having to install the extra software you can
simply plug your printer in and let windows find it. This way it will only
install the driver needed to run the printer.
Check your printers status in Device manager
If
you go to Device manager you can see if your printer driver is installed
correctly and you can also update it.
-
Press the Win Key and the Pause Break key at the same time.
System properties will open.
-
Go
to the hardware tab and choose device manager.
You
will see a list of devices installed on your computer. If any have a yellow
exclamation mark next to it, they have a problem. To see the properties of a
device, right click on it and choose properties. You can also choose to
update a driver here.
What are some of the features of Printers
available to buy?
-
Laser Printer
Almost everyone has a laser printer because
they are now so affordable, fast printing, and simple to install and
operate. You can print anything with a laser printer, however the quality
of your finished product depends on the quality of your printer.
-
Disc Printer
These printer actually print on the face of a
compact disc. It is great if you have a lot of cd's flying around.
Printing on the disc makes it look professional. I give family and friends
a disc with my photos on it. Labeling the disc makes it easy to recognize
and remember what is on it.
-
Label Printer
This is my
favorite printer. You can label cd cases, envelopes, files, kids toys,
anything you find without a label. You can now create customized labels by
changing the fonts, graphics and logos for your business.
-
Network printer
You can use any printer for a network
printer, however you have to have a computer running so you can access the
printer. With a network ready printer you can connect it directly to your
router with an Ethernet cable. Then you can access the printer any time as
it is a standalone device on the network. If you just have a normal
printer that you want to use as a network printer see
how to add a network printer
-
Photo Printer These littlie printers
are great. You can print your own photo in the 6x4 size photo at home. I
must admit that the paper and ink do cost a fair bit, however you still
can't beet the convenience.
|
|
