In this workshop, we will cover some simple troubleshooting that will be helpful to Information Technology when reporting a problem with your printer.  We will also discuss the difference in the Technology Repair form and the Initiate Action form and explain which to use when reporting problems.  

One of the first steps you should take when your printer crashes is to make sure the printer has power.  Check the connection at the power outlet and the connection in the back of the printer.

If your printer has power and still doesn't function, you can try to turn off the power and then turn it back on. 

Windows may sometimes not have the appropriate resources available to complete a print job. Try to rebooting your computer.  This will sometimes resolve a printer issue.  

If your printer is networked, check the network connection.  You may also check with other users in your area who use the same printer to see if they can print to it from their computer.

One of the most common printer problems, are paper jams.  If you have a paper jam you should open the printer cover and look to see if you can remove the paper.  Be careful when pulling out a jammed piece of paper.  If you pull it out too fast you could tear the paper, leaving small pieces still in the printer.  

If the text on your printed documents looks faded and very light, it may be time to change your ink jet or toner cartridge. 

If these steps do not solve your problem, you should fill out the proper form and return it to Information Technology.  On the next page we will cover the different types of forms and which to use when reporting a hardware or software problem.

©2007 Columbia State Information Technology
This page was last updated February 12, 2007