Why does my printer take a long time to print?

HP Laserjet P1505n Problem.?
-asked by Steven B

There are 3 computers connected to this HP printer via the network. Often the printer will fail to print documents, especially web pages with lots of graphics (mapquest or weather.com). The green light on the printer will just blink but it never prints. This happens mostly on the 2 older G4's in the room. It doesn't appear to be a problem with the network because the same problem happens when connected to the printer via USB. It does not appear to be a problem with the computer. I believe they are running the most recent version of the driver.

Best Answer - Chosen by Voters
by Pendragon...

The printer doesn't have enough memory to process the graphics. Buy a printer suited to the job. That printer is a personal printer not a workgroup printer.

I have run into this situation numerous times - A customer calls complaining about equipment that is functioning fine. When purchasing any type of office equipment it is essential that you match the equipment to the job. The LaserJet P1505N is a fine printer and works well for home use. It was never intended for an office environment. The decision maker in this instance should have consulted a dealer before purchase. Most likely the company could have saved some money, purchased the correct machine, and avoided the headaches and hassles they now have.

Save Money on Ink and Toner

Printers are deceptively cheap these days, but the same can't be said for the ink and toner you put in them. Ink is used by inkjet printers and toner, a powder, is used in laser printers. With both, cartridge costs can add up fast.

To avoid paying too much, understand that the business of selling ink and toner has gotten more competitive recently. Printer makers are taking small steps to help you figure out how much ink a printer will use. And a variety of retailers, both online and off, are selling off-brand and recycled cartridges.

Just finding the right replacement cartridges when you need them can be a challenge as well, so you need to know where to look and the best ways to order what you need quickly. These steps will help:

• Don't let your cartridges empty completely. Dry cartridges can cause print heads to overheat and damage your printer.
• Be careful about recycled cartridges. They'll save you money, but low-quality cartridges can ruin your machine.
• Exercise caution with refill kits or quick refill stores because a refilled cartridge can and does leak.

Action Steps

The best contacts and resources to help you get it done.

Establish an account with a dealer you can trust

Buy your cartridges from local reputable dealers who guarantee the quality of their products. Large office-supply chains are a good option, but a business who specializes in Ink and Toner may be a better option.

Save money with third-party brands

Just because your printer is an HP or Epson doesn't mean your ink cartridges must carry the manufacturer's name. You can cut costs by 10 to 40 percent or more with store brands. Also, the shelf life of cartridges varies based upon storage conditions and the manufacturer.

Consider recycled goods

Recycled - Remanuactured cartridges can save even more money — just make sure they're from a reputable seller.

Tips & Tactics

• Use black ink. If you're not printing a marketing brochure, you'll save money.
• Be stingy. Don't print pages you don't need.
• Look for a draft mode on your printer. It'll use less ink on documents that don't need to be perfectly polished.
• Toner costs more than ink, but long-lasting toner cartridges can give you more bang for your buck.