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General discussion

Why won?t my printers work with my new 64-bit Vista machine?

Apr 2, 2010 8:07AM PDT
Question:

Why won?t my printers work with my new 64-bit Vista machine?


I've got a new HP Pavilion loaded with Windows Vista. It is a 64-bit system, and I can't use either my Epson CX4600 or my Dell AIO 940 printers. I am computer illiterate, but one of my buddies told me that I really screwed up buying this one. He says that none of my equipment can be used with the 64-bit HP and that I will have to get all new stuff when and if it ever becomes available. Do you have any suggestions as to how I can get my current scanner/printers to work with this computer? Again I must reiterate that I am not computer smart and am just a 68-year-old retiree on a fixed income.

Thanks for any suggestions you can give me.

--Submitted by Paul H. of Cornelius, OR

Here are some featured member answers to get you started, but
please read all the advice and suggestions that our
members have contributed to this question.

It's probably in need of drivers... by Wolfie2k5
http://forums.cnet.com/5208-12546_102-0.html?messageID=3280278#3280278

Pretty simple. Install the drivers --Submitted by BigGuns149
http://forums.cnet.com/5208-12546_102-0.html?messageID=3280596#3280596

64 bit problem --Submitted by Steven Limbrick
http://forums.cnet.com/5208-12546_102-0.html?messageID=3280804#3280804

New computer problems --Submitted by waytron
http://forums.cnet.com/5208-12546_102-0.html?messageID=3284186#3284186

Printer drivers For Epson CX4600 and Dell AIO 940--Submitted by MichaelFoust
http://forums.cnet.com/5208-12546_102-0.html?messageID=3280089#3280089

Thank you to all who contributed!

If you have an answer for Paul, click the reply link below and submit it. Please be as detailed as possible when providing a solution or recommendation. Thanks!

Discussion is locked

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Paul H. of Cornelius, OR
Apr 6, 2010 3:55AM PDT

go to http://www.epson.com/cgi-bin/Store/support/supDetail.jsp?oid=41663&prodoid=46048266&infoType=Downloads&platform=Windows and download the driver of Epson CX4600 for windows vista 64 bit.
I sure it will work this time.

for the dell printer I'm not too sure about the driver that's why I'm giving you several possibilties.
follow this link to download driver for http://www.drivers-software-download.org/tag/dell-aio-940 for Dell AIO 940

http://support.dell.com/support/downloads/driverslist.aspx?os=WLH&
catid=-1&dateid=-1&impid=-1&osl=EN&typeid=-1&formatid=-1&servicetag=&SystemID=PRN_ALL_A940&hidos=WW1&hidlang=en&TabIndex=&scanSupported=False&scanConsent=False

APPARENTLY THERE'S NO DRIVER FOR DELL 64-BIT PLEASE CLICK ON THIS LINK TO CONTACT DELL PERSONALLY
http://support.dell.com/support/topics/global.aspx/support/dellcare/en/contact_technical_support?c=us&cs=19&l=en&s=dhs

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viesta 64 bit
Apr 3, 2010 10:22PM PDT

To Mr.Paul H. of Cornelius, OR
viesta 64 bits can only work on devices that support 64 bits. I suggest that you install on your device driver uses 64-bit drivers.
try your search for 64-bit drivers in the web address that you use the product.
alternatively you can contact the customer service that your brand of device used. good luck

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Why won?t my printers work with my new 64-bit Vista machine?
Apr 4, 2010 4:34AM PDT

Have you tried going to the HP site and looking for some form of "patch" / download to get over this hump. Somebody else has probably had the same problem and I would venture to guess that HP is working on or already has a "workaround".

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drivers
Apr 4, 2010 7:17AM PDT

Go to both the Dell and Epson websites and look for Vista 64 drivers for each printer. Download and install. The correct driver is all you need not new printers.

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you can try...
Apr 4, 2010 8:51AM PDT

I had the same problem with an upgrade to a new laptop with windows 7 which is 64 as well. My old lexmark would not work, contacted them and they told me to download the vista drivers. That didnt really work for me, and I bought a new AIO printer, but you can try to download vista drivers first. Go to thier site and see if they have drivers for vista 64, or contact them. if they do download them but make sure you delete the old ones and any rements of them. set a restore point before you do this. I crashed my system because I still had remnents of my old printer when I was installing the new one. two days later and now everything is working well again. If the drivers dont work, dont drive yourself crazy, get a new printer.

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Windows Compatibility Center
Apr 4, 2010 10:05AM PDT
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64 bit printer drivers
Apr 4, 2010 1:09PM PDT
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Epson printers and vista
Apr 4, 2010 8:22PM PDT

I have the same 64-bit Vista on my computer. I have a Epson Stylus CX5000 that needed installing but at first I couldn`t get it to work. What I did was go to the Epson website - find the model printer software update to make it compatible with 64-bit vista and download and follow the install instructions. It wasn`t hard just took a little time thanks to dial up. Hope this helps you out.

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Go 32 bit.
Apr 5, 2010 2:22AM PDT

Before we get into the specifics, it would be interesting to know why you have a 64-bit operating system, and if it is a new system why Vista and not Windows 7.

The cheapest, probably most effective way of solving your problem that would allow you to keep your PC and all your peripherals is to install Windows Vista 32-bit (a copy of Vista comes with both 32-bit and 64-bit ready to install). Here's why.

You don't need to understand what 64-bit and 32-bit mean other than in these simple terms; 64-bit allows your PC to make use of far more memory (RAM) than 32bit. This is only useful however, if an application is developed to use the additional memory in the first place; and many aren't. Your applications will still work (in a compatibility mode) but you'll see none of the benefit associated with 64-bit architecture.

Unless you play state of the art games, photo / video editing or some other special software then a 64-bit operating system (O/S) can do more harm than good. As I say above most of your applications will work, the real issue then is with your 'drivers'. Drivers are the software used to help your PC talk to your devices and peripherals such as printers. Many companies are slow to support 64-bit as it is an additional expense to code and test the device. So switching to 32-bit should solve your compatibility problems whilst not impacting performance.

The big picture is that at some point the industry will reach a ceiling with 32bit systems as applications become more robust and memory intensive. Microsoft intend at some point to phase out 32bit, and are in fact already working to introduce 128bit architecture, but we are a good few years away from that right now. So from what I can glean by your post, 32bit Vista is for you, and will most likely fix your compatibility woes. You can read more on the trade-off between 64bit and 32bit here: http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-vista/32-bit-and-64-bit-Windows-frequently-asked-questions ; or Google 32bit vs 64bit for a wealth of articles on the subject.

Finally, if you are adamant that you need to stick with 64-bit, it may be worth upgrading to Windows 7. You can make your own mind on cost vs features but in my experience the driver support is generally better. (For what it's worth I run 64 bit windows 7 and have many devices linked to it). Seeing as you should already have a paid up version of Vista 32bit (you should have got an install disk with your PC, or call HP Support) then, for the sake of saving your pennies, simply reinstall Vista 32bit. It is worth noting, before you decide that unlike Vista (where one licensed copy comes with both 64 and 32bit versions), with Windows 7 you will have to chose.

If you do decide to take my advice, as with any upgrade be sure to back-up your personal files and check out some prior CNET posts on how to efficiently reinstall your operating system.

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Your friend is wrong
Apr 5, 2010 4:28PM PDT

With either of your printers hooked up to your new machine and turned on -- the printer turned on, that is.
Go to the internet with the Microsoft internet explorer (supplied with your software) when you are there click on << Tools >> (its on the menu file-edit just before "help" "windows update" when you are at the microsft update site bypass the recommended express button and click on "custom" instead> AFTER IT COMPLETLY DOES THE CUSTOM it should return to you with a list of high priority updates, look over carefully the Type of update list list on the left side, the fourth item on this list is called << Hardware, Optional (1) >> with a number hopefully bigger than zero in the parenthesis there. It doesn't list hardware but software for your hardware. Try downloading and installing it on your machine, if they had no software for your hardware try repeating the w3hole thing with the other printer hooked on and turned to your machine -- hope this helps

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reply for Paul H. of Cornelius, OR
Apr 6, 2010 3:22AM PDT
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New Computer Problems
Apr 9, 2010 8:43PM PDT

First, I am a little curious as to why your new computer came with Windows Vista and not Windows 7. Most any new computer purchased today should have come with Windows 7 installed. I hope you received a really great deal on this older hardware? You might want to contact the manufacturer and see if they will give you a downgrade to XP or even an upgrade to Windows 7.

Purchasing a new computer almost always brings with it a few surprises that often results in having to spend a little extra cash to upgrade either some piece of hardware or software that is not compatible with the new computer. This is especially true if you are moving to a 64 bit version of Windows and plan to reuse older equipment and software that you have had around for several years. Many manufacturers have simply lagged behind in offering support and drivers for 64 bit versions of Windows. In the end, you may find it more economical to downgrade the new computer to Windows XP so that it will be compatible with all of your older equipment. But you first must check to make sure that Windows XP drivers are available for your specific model computer. Before I address your specific problem with your printers and just to give others a heads up, here is a quick list of the most common issues that you may run into migrating to a new computer:

Printer Ports - Most new computers (with the exception of some business machines) do not come with a parallel printer port anymore. This is that large 50 pin connector that all printers once used. Most all printers today are connected to the computer using a USB cable or through your network. You can purchase a Parallel to USB adapter and that may work however you may not be able to find any drivers for your old printer. You can also purchase and install a Parallel port card that can be installed into the computer for about $30, but again check the manufacturer first to make sure they offer the correct drivers. So between missing ports and the lack of drivers you might just have to give up that reliable old printer that you have been using for the past 15 years.

Peripherals ? You are very likely to run into problems getting some older hardware to work with your new computer and again this is more likely when moving to a 64 bit version of Windows. You will have to check the manufacturer?s website for new drivers but you may find that you will have to replace items such as Printers, Scanners, webcams and other hardware that is simply not compatible.

Serial Ports (9 Pin D Connector) ? Many new computers do not come with Serial ports which could be a problem if you are trying to connect up an old Palm Pilot, controller or other serial device. Many older specialty devices like Blood Glucose Monitors, BSR Home Light Controllers, Digital Scales and PC based Multi-meters used the 9 pin serial port for their connection to the computer. But again, they do make adapters to convert to USB but finding compatible software and drivers will probably be a problem.

Wireless Adapters ? If your old Desktop required a USB or Internal PCI Wireless adapter to connect to your wireless network you will find that many older wireless adapters will not work on a Vista or Windows 7, so expect to replace this with a new compatible version.

Incompatible Software ? I find that many clients are surprised to find that some of their software will need to be updated or replaced. Be prepared to have to purchase upgraded versions of Antivirus software, Quicken, Quickbooks, Office and other applications that you use on a regular basis.

Missing Microsoft Applications ? You may also find a few more surprises when you go to setup your email and discover that Microsoft did away with Outlook Express and you have to convert to Windows Mail or Live Mail.

As far as your specific problems with the 2 printers that you have:

Epson CX4600 ? If you go to the Epson Website http://www.epson.com/cgi-bin/Store/support/supDetail.jsp?BV_UseBVCookie=yes&oid=41663&prodoid=46048266&infoType=Downloads&platform=Windows
And check for drivers for the Epson CX4600 you will find that they have some of the Epson software available for the 64 bit version of Vista but not the actual Print Drivers. So I guess you could get it to scan but not print.

Dell AIO 940 - The Dell Website http://support.dell.com/support/downloads/driverslist.aspx?os=WLH&catid=-1&dateid=-1&impid=-1&osl=EN&typeid=-1&formatid=-1&servicetag=&SystemID=PRN_ALL_A940&hidos=WW1&hidlang=en&TabIndex=&scanSupported=True&scanConsent=False
They only show drivers available for the 32 bit version of Vista, so you are pretty much out of luck here with your 64 bit version of Windows.

So you are really left with the option to either purchase new printers or downgrading your computer to XP (if XP drivers are available). In the end, I would probably recommend purchasing new printers unless you have a bunch of old software that you want to re-use as well. And if you have extra money to spend, you might want to consider upgrading the computer to Windows 7 as well. My guess is that Windows Vista will go the way of Windows ME and there will be limited support for it in the future.

Dana
Wayland Computer

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Anytime someone tells u nothing works w/ a new OS, it's BS
Apr 16, 2010 10:29AM PDT

DUH - Like Microsoft would put out a new operating system these days, and make everyone who installed it hate them because new printers must be purchased!

WHAT A JERK! -- I hear this all the time re AutoCAD from crochety old timers who are still angry from 15 years ago.

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Windows Vista Forum
Apr 16, 2010 10:39AM PDT

I understand your problem. Vista takes 4GB and RAM GB screwed up by the time the data gets in the queue. Hence, you either increase the RAM or put a small flash disk as a buffer and by all means work away from the refrigerator. The RWs make the PC okay or the IPAD work wonky. I thank you Firozali A.Mulla DBA

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Vista64? Vista32? Nada!!
Apr 16, 2010 10:58AM PDT

It makes no difference which Vista - it is still Vista!

I upgraded from XP Pro to Vista Ult. and cannot use my Lexmark X7170. Check this: Installed new drivers from Lexmark. WILL NOT COMMUNICATE.
Printer works on other PC's. A loaner Epson works. Both are USB.

Uninstalled/rebooted/re-installed. Same. Uninstalled. Cleared all files. Cleared registry. Rebooted. Re-installed. Same. 19 tries....

Tired out Lexmark. Tired out Microsoft. Any genius want to try?

++ Yeah, when I am employed again, I will get a new PC with Win 7, but that could be awhile. Real help would be appreciated. ++

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do like i did and dump vista which so many problems
Apr 16, 2010 11:25AM PDT

once i went to windows wala!!no more problems

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64-bit drivers
Apr 16, 2010 2:25PM PDT

I too am using a Vista 64 system and have been using an old win 98 printer just fine with it. You will most likely need to find and install 64 bit drivers for your older hardware.

For your Epson printer try the files here:
http://www.epson.com/cgi-bin/Store/support/supDetail.jsp?BV_UseBVCookie=yes&oid=41663&prodoid=46048266&infoType=Downloads&platform=Windows

As for the Dell printer it may be more complicated, Microsoft says one will work and one won't (appearantly there are two types of A940 printers) and Dell's support site doesn't seem to have any 64 bit drivers for either one.

http://www.microsoft.com/windows/compatibility/windows-7/en-us/Search.aspx?s=dell%20A940&type=Hardware

http://support.dell.com/support/downloads/driverslist.aspx?os=WLH&catid=-1&dateid=-1&impid=-1&osl=EN&typeid=-1&formatid=-1&servicetag=&SystemID=PRN_ALL_A940&hidos=WW1&hidlang=en&TabIndex=&scanSupported=True&scanConsent=False

Vista might have a default driver that might work for it though. Try having it auto-detect or use windows update to try to find a compatable driver.

All in all Vista should last for about another 5+ years.

P.S. to Win7 users, go to the run command and type winver to find out what version of windows you have.

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HP printers and WT 64 bit
Apr 16, 2010 8:01PM PDT

I had the opposite problem of a new (8 months) HP printer now working with W7 64 bit. I downloaded the drivers from their site and it still didn't work. HP's tech support offered to sell me another printer. Stay away from HP...

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Dig Deeper
Apr 16, 2010 10:24PM PDT

Use Windows explorer to dig down into the CD that came with the printer. VISTA may not be able to plug and play your printer and the CD may not start up to load but if you search the CD and use the setup command it will most likel work. Sometimes you can also "lie" to the machine. If you do the Add Printer option in the Control Panel pick an older model of the printer you have. If you see am Epson 4500 or a Dell AIO 930 choose that and in most cases it will work. Sometimes you can pick a HP driver and it will work. Hope this helps. Blessings to you!

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Vista/Windows7 computers can print on a network
Apr 17, 2010 12:13AM PDT

I have a network of computers and printers. Some printers do not have Vista or Windows 7 drivers since the manufacturer wants you to upgrade. I share the older printer from a XP machine then the Vista or Windows 7 computers print through the XP machine.

I have a 64 bit Widows 2008 server and it can print that way too.

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If anything, this would work betoond a shadow of a doubt
Apr 17, 2010 1:03AM PDT
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Lexmark All-In-One X6170 Abandoned by the roadside
Apr 17, 2010 2:31AM PDT

When I got a Vista machine I discovered my multi-function printer had become a single-function printer. It could no longer talk back to my computer. So no scanning to file or fax management. I contacted Lexmark tech support and they made it clear that I should not hold my breath.

BTW, their advice for Windows 7? Use the Vista drivers. OK so I bought a new printer and guess what? It wasn't a Lexmark. Vote with your dollars my friends.

Cheers Jack

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Try Easy Print v3.10 for the Epson.
Apr 17, 2010 2:40AM PDT
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Updates
Apr 17, 2010 5:18AM PDT

Try to dowmload the updated of the printer driver and also update the BIOS with latest version.

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Printers don't work under Vista or Win 7 64-bit OS
Apr 17, 2010 7:01AM PDT

First go to a manufacturer web cite, select your brand of printer and check for the driver for your OS. The driver should be there or you will get guidance to what to do.
I have a very old HP DeskJet 970 Cxi and machine with Win7 64-bit.
On HP site I found that the driver is included in my OS. It does not have a ful functionality of the old driver for Win XP, but the printer is working just fine.
If you have Win7 Pro you can install a virtual Win XP and run all apps and drivers for Win XP.

I would not recomend to switch to 32-bit version because of limited memory address space.
Instead, buy a new printer. Some HP brand are available for $65- $99.

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What worked for my older printer
Apr 19, 2010 1:46AM PDT

I updated to Vista but found that I needed to remove all the old drivers for my printer (HP5500)before installing the new drivers. Worked great afterwards

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You can use 64bit XP drivers
Apr 19, 2010 2:46AM PDT

I have had good success with using Windows XP 64Bit drivers on my Windows Vista and Windows 7 64 Bit system when all other alternatives have failed.
Case in point:
Epson RX600 All in one on Windows 7 Ultimate 64bit, no drivers available, but Windows XP 64 bit drivers are signed and did install that I downloaded from the Epson support site.

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The Problem is Windows 7
Apr 19, 2010 3:11AM PDT

The real problem is the number 7. It's a devil worship thing and it will haunt you for ever. Uninstall Windows 7 and go back to Vista or XP. This is the only thing you can do. Good Luck!

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Windows 7 isn't the issue, update your printer
Apr 19, 2010 3:15AM PDT

Windows 7 isn't the issue, if you check with the manufachurer you will most likly see that Windows 7 64 bit isn't supported. It like saying, my Windows 3.1 Applications won't run on Vista! Well Duh! Time to upgrade and be sure to check compatability first.