Printer Troubleshooting: First Steps

Most printer problems come down to power, connection, or a stuck print job. Try these steps before you call. They fix the majority of issues in a few minutes.

1. Check power and screen

• Make sure the printer is on and the screen shows it is ready.
• Look for error lights or messages, such as a paper jam, a door open, or low toner or ink.
• Clear any paper jam by gently removing the stuck paper, then close all doors and trays.

2. Check the connection

• If the printer uses a cable, make sure it is firmly plugged into both the printer and the computer or wall port.
• If the printer is on Wi-Fi, make sure it shows as connected on its screen.
• Confirm your computer is on the same office network as the printer.

3. Clear the print queue

A stuck job can block everything behind it. On Windows:

1. Select Start, then Settings, then Bluetooth & devices, then Printers & scanners.
2. Select your printer, then Open print queue.
3. Cancel any stuck or old jobs.
4. Try printing again.

4. Restart the printer

1. Turn the printer off.
2. Wait about 30 seconds.
3. Turn it back on and wait for it to show ready.
4. Print a test page.

5. Check you picked the right printer

If you have more than one printer, make sure you selected the correct one in the print window before printing.

Still not working?

Contact us at support@robb.tech or (806) 370-4700. Tell us the printer name or model, any error on its screen, and whether it affects one person or the whole office. If it is the only printer in the office and no one can print, let us know it is urgent. On a different system? Call us and we’ll walk you through it.