Ex 2.4.1 - Print Options

Microsoft Windows has a number of different tools for managing printers that are connected to your machine.  These include tools that allow you to:

• Initiate a self-test for a printer

• Change the default printer from an installed printer list

• Install a new printer on the computer

Initiate a self-test for a printer
When a new printer is first connected to your computer it is advisable to run a test to see that it is working OK.  Microsoft Windows allows you to do this from the Printers window which is accessible from either the Settings menu or the Control Panel.  When you select the self-test option a single page of data should be sent to the printer which details the printer settings currently installed.  Provided this page prints OK all should be well with your system.  Clearly, if this self-test page does not print, or is un-readable, then there is something wrong with the printer and/or the installation.

Change the default printer from an installed printer list
It is possible, particularly in a large office with a network of machines, that your machine can print on one or more different printers around the room.  It should be noted however that every computer is only connected to one printer directly at any one time - this printer being referred to as the default printer the default printer in the screen shot below is the HP LaserJect 4000 Series on that has the tick next to it.  The default printer is always the one with the tick next to it.

If you wish to change the default printer to another printer in the room you will need to instruct Windows to this effect.  Microsoft Windows allows you to do this from the Printers window.  Initiating a change here will instigate a permanent change to your printer setting.  If however you only wish to send one single print job to another printer this can be done as and when you select Print from within your application.  Change the Printer Name before instigating the print.