Err Msg: Error Writing to LPT1: Access Denied

When you attempt to print to a Hewlett-Packard (HP) 4000-series printer connected to printer port LPT1, you may receive one of the following error messages:

• Error writing to LPT1: For <document name>. Access denied. Error writing to LPT1: For <document name>. The requested resource is in use. The handle is invalid.

Or, the print job may become stuck in the spooler.

This behavior can occur when you install the HP 4000-series printer drivers included with the HP Complete Printing System for Windows from Hewlett-Packard.

NOTE: This behavior can occur when you try to print to printers other than HP4000-series printers if HP Complete Printing System for Windows is installed on the computer.

WARNING: If you use Registry Editor incorrectly, you may cause serious problems that may require you to reinstall your operating system. Microsoft cannot guarantee that you can solve problems that result from using Registry Editor incorrectly. Use Registry Editor at your own risk.

To resolve this issue, rename the Hpdcmon.dll file in the %SystemRoot%\System32 folder. To do so, type the following line at a command prompt: If this does not resolve the problem, follow these steps:

1. Start Registry Editor (Regedt32.exe).
2. Go to the following key:
   HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\CurrentControlSet\Control\Print\Monitors\HP Laserjet 5 Language Monit
   NOTE: The HP Language Monitor key may vary in name depending on which HP driver is installed.
   
   NOTE: Do not delete the PJL Language Monitor key.
3. On the Edit menu, click Delete, and then quit Registry Editor.
4. Click Start, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
5. Double-click Add/Remove Programs, and then click the Install/Uninstall tab. If HP Printing System appears in the list of installed programs, click Add/Remove.
6. Click OK, and then restart your computer.
7. After your computer restarts, install your printer drivers.
   
   NOTE: If you install the HP-provided drivers, use the minimal installation option.

The third-party product discussed in this article is manufactured by a vendor independent of Microsoft; we make no warranty, implied or otherwise, regarding this product's performance or reliability.