Unplug the printer entirely from the system. Now if you've access to manual or the support website, try a standalone test print(find out how to do this). It *maybe* continue pressing on the power key during initial power-ON. This should clarify if the printer is at fault. If it works OK, then somehow the system is causing a problem. Of course, the quickest way is to try the printer on "another system". Again, if it works, your system is at fault. if not, then the LPT cable(try another good cable) could be or the LPT port. No telling on an older system and such what can finally give and results become like yours. I like to after a de-install of anything, to run a registry cleaner to better cleanout remnants of a pgm, drivers, features, etc. then reboot to become more hassle free. Of course, this old printer just may have seen its last days. If you decide to pitch it, look into the Goodwill, Sal. Army, Craigslist(free), Freecycle or any recycling venue, Goodwill does provide this service.

http://www.ehow.com/how_2006225_test-hp-inkjet.html (find yours)

tada -----Willy Happy