HP Printer Setup with XP Home Edition

[Guest]

I have an HP LaserJet 1200 printer and just got a new Dell Inspiron 6000
laptop with Windows XP Home Edition. When I hooked up the printer via the
USB cable, it said new hardware found, and the porceeded with installation
automatically and the said hardware was installed and ready to use. However,
when I print a test page (or most anything else) it prints multiple pages of
"garbage". I went to the HP site and downloaded the PCL 6 for this printer
driver and installed it via the "New Drivers" button but then when I try to
print a test page, it gives a kernel error. I have tried to remove the
printer and repeat the process, but it still has the same problems. Any
suggestions?

 

[Cari \(MS-MVP\)]

With USB devices, you should install the software BEFORE connecting the
device.

http://www.coribright.com/windows/Article One.htm

 

[Guest]

Cari is 101% correct. The instructions for installation of this LaserJet
specifically state that to connect this printer when prompted during the
installation of the software. "When all else fails, read instructions."