Unknown System Error Mapping Printer Ports

Kenn's
Tech
Notes

19991002: Unknown System Error Mapping Printer Ports

October/1999
Tech Note #2

Neil B made an interesting discovery, or perhaps "developed a useful work-around", would be more accurate. Neil supports two labs which have a Hewlett-Packard DeskJet 1120C shared from a Windows 95 workstation. Although both labs are very similar in terms of hardware and software configuration, the logon script could successfully connect clients to that printer in only one of the two labs. In the other lab, a persistent network connection to the UNC worked fine, but connecting to a port mapped via a logon script resulted in an error message ("There was an error printing to LPT2: ... unknown system error.")

Although Neil did not have sufficient time to discover what subtle difference between the two labs was causing the problem, he did find a work-around. He found that if he mapped the printer in the login script to LPT4 instead of LPT2, it worked fine.

Technicians may find it helpful to remember this tip. If you're having trouble mapping a printer with a login script, try using an LPT port greater than 3. Remember if you do this that this solution is not immediately compatible with Windows for Workgroups clients. In order for Windows 3.1x clients to recognize LPT ports greater than 3, you must add
LPT4:=
(or the appropriate port identifier) to the [Ports] section of win.ini. This modification is not necessary for Windows 9x or NT.

DISCLAIMER: This document is intended for the reference of computer support personnel within Winnipeg School Division No. 1. There is no warranty or liability if procedures recommended here have an adverse affect on any systems. Use them at your own risk. Any trademarks mentioned are the property of their owners, none of whom have certified any information provided here. Opinions expressed here are personal only and do not represent the policy of Winnipeg School Division No. 1 or any other organization anywhere.


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2001 June 9

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