Can't print from local printer

I've installed a network printer and a local printer on a
customer's Windows 2000 laptop. The network printer
prints fine but the local printer fails even to print a
test page. I've swapped the printer and cables; even
tried them elsewhere to be sure it is not the printers or
cables. They work fine at another computer. And, altho
the installation of the printer and driver seem fine
(using a parallel connection/bidirection cable), I always
get a test page failed message. It's only with the local
connection. I've tested using an HP Laserjet 4l and an HP
deskjet 560c. Both fail at the laptop but work fine on
another PC. Keep in mind that i've also installed a
network printer and it prints fine.

One other interesting note: I've tried this via the
docking station and off the docking station...both ways
fail....so, I'm guessing it may be something to do with
the local setup or the local print queue.