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printer won't connect

19 years ago

dell dimension 8200 about 3-4 years old.the usb printer cable plugs in the back of the tower right next to the mouse.if i plug it in next to the mouse neither one works.if i plug it in without the mouse,nothing happens.plugging in the mouse alone makes the mouse work.thanks

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Comments (4)

owbist
19 years ago
What happens if you plug the printer in the second USB port and also when it is plugged in the front of the computer? Is it possible the mouse DIN connector has an oversized plastic housing causing both to be off off alignment slightly?

Can you borrow another USB cable to see if yours has failed? Can you try the printer in another computer to ensure it is working correctly?

Click Start/Control panel/System/Hardware/Device manager and scroll to the bottom for the USB jacks. Click the plus sign beside the USB connectors to drop the menu down and see if they are all working correctly. Do that by right clicking on each one and clicking Properties
mes444
19 years ago
This doesn't answer your question directly, but can you use an older permanent plug type cable for the printer and use it that way, avoiding the usb problem all together? Just a thought.
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marthapartha
19 years ago
Could you post your computer specs or give the make and model of your computer?
kudzu9
19 years ago
I've got a Dell 8100 that's about the same age, and one of my rear USB ports simply failed. I needed all of them, so I bought myself an inexpensive, powered USB hub and that not only gave me more ports, but made access easier since it sits on top of my desk. It's a Belkin with 5 ports in the back of it for cables, and 2 on the top for things like thumb drives. I think I got it for about $30.

One other thing, though. My computer also has 2 concealed USB ports under a flap on the front. You could try those in a pinch or as a diagnostic technique if you have them.

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