Vista - Vista x64 can't print in 32bit apps

cwinterb · 05-01-2009

I am running Vista x64 Ultimate SP2. I have an HP LaserJet 1018 printer connected via USB. The printer is not shared; it is used from the local machine only. It is set as the default printer.

I can print fine from any 64 bit applications. For example, I can print a Test Page, or from Notepad, or from the 64bit version of Paint.NET.

However, I am unable to print from any 32 bit applications. For example, I can't print from Word 2007 SP2 or any other MS Office app. I'll use Word as an example:

- Create a document, hit CTRL+P to print
- The Print dialogue pops up.
- The LaserJet is selected in the Printer drop-down, as expected
- Click OK to Print and get, "Windows cannot print due to a problem with the current printer setup."
- Click on Properties and get, "Word cannot bring up the properties dialogue because the printer returned an error."

Other 32 bit apps behave similarly, or tell me I need to install a printer despite showing the LaserJet in their Print dialogue.

When I look in TaskMgr I see multiple instances of splwow64.exe running, one for each failed attempt to print. There is nothing related in the EventLog, as far as I can see.

I have tried everything obvious:

- Removed printer drivers and reinstalled (HP v.6.2.1.0) via printmanagement.msc
- Stopped and restarted the Print Spooler
- Checked my Windows Updates are current.
- Installed Vista SP2 in the hope this would resolve it (it didn't).

Any other ideas received gratefully, before I resort to paving my machine and moving to the new Windows 7 RC!

JayRFisher · 08-24-2009

It is now August 2009 ...I have the same problem. I've been on the phone for multiple hours per event, several times over the past seven days, with no success. Has anyone else solved this?

05-01-2009	#1 (permalink)
cwinterb Vista Ultimate x64 1 posts	Vista x64 can't print in 32bit apps I am running Vista x64 Ultimate SP2. I have an HP LaserJet 1018 printer connected via USB. The printer is not shared; it is used from the local machine only. It is set as the default printer. I can print fine from any 64 bit applications. For example, I can print a Test Page, or from Notepad, or from the 64bit version of Paint.NET. However, I am unable to print from any 32 bit applications. For example, I can't print from Word 2007 SP2 or any other MS Office app. I'll use Word as an example: - Create a document, hit CTRL+P to print - The Print dialogue pops up. - The LaserJet is selected in the Printer drop-down, as expected - Click OK to Print and get, "Windows cannot print due to a problem with the current printer setup." - Click on Properties and get, "Word cannot bring up the properties dialogue because the printer returned an error." Other 32 bit apps behave similarly, or tell me I need to install a printer despite showing the LaserJet in their Print dialogue. When I look in TaskMgr I see multiple instances of splwow64.exe running, one for each failed attempt to print. There is nothing related in the EventLog, as far as I can see. I have tried everything obvious: - Removed printer drivers and reinstalled (HP v.6.2.1.0) via printmanagement.msc - Stopped and restarted the Print Spooler - Checked my Windows Updates are current. - Installed Vista SP2 in the hope this would resolve it (it didn't). Any other ideas received gratefully, before I resort to paving my machine and moving to the new Windows 7 RC!
My System Specs

08-24-2009	#2 (permalink)
JayRFisher Vista Home Premium 64bit 2 posts	It is now August 2009 ...I have the same problem. I've been on the phone for multiple hours per event, several times over the past seven days, with no success. Has anyone else solved this?
My System Specs

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