Print Spooler Errors

Print spooler errors can prevent a printer from functioning properly.

Printer devices connect to computers to enable documents to be printed. Print spooler software is necessary to complete this operation. A number of print spooler errors can occur that may prevent a printer from functioning properly.

Definition

A print spooler is a software directory used in computers that controls how print jobs are sent to a printer.

Process

A computer can send print requests to a holding area, or queue, via the print spooling software, which allows the printing device to call up and print jobs one at a time. This frees up the computer processor to move on to other tasks while the printer is operating.

Errors

Print spoolers occasionally encounter errors that can prevent jobs from printing. Error symptoms can include computer freezing, disk space errors, documents held in queue that won't delete and print, and high central processing unit (CPU) usage. Common print spooler error messages include "operation could not be completed" and "the print spooler is not running." Print spooler errors often can be rectified by setting the print spooler service to automatic via the services window. Print spooler errors also may be fixed by uninstalling and reinstalling the spooling software via the computer control panel.

References

• PCmag.com: Definition of: print spooler
• "Printer Troubleshooting and Repair"; by John Heilborn; Sams Publishing; 1988

Resources

• "Troubleshooting Your PC for Dummies, 3rd Edition"; Dan Gookin; For Dummies; 2008