Remote Desktop Connection - Unable to view local printer

  • Thread starter Thread starter Basha Yasin
  • Start date Start date
B

Basha Yasin

Hello

May I request an expert opinion to find a solution for my
problem below.

Current status:
I have a Windows XP Stand-alone PC connecting to a Windows
2003 Server.

I have locally connected a HP 1010 Lasetjet Printer which
has a USB Port. (It does not have a LPT Port)

When I am using the Remote Desktop Connection I cannot see
the Printer (Even though I have enabled the "map local
printers" under "Options" in the connection dialog box.

If I connect a printer with an LPT Port it is visible as a
local printer in the Remote Desktop connection.

Question is:

1) Am I not able to see the printer since it has a USB
Port?

2) In such case is there any workarounds to make this work
instead of buying a new printer with an LPT Port.

Thanks a lot!

BR

Basha Yasin
 
This is most likely becuase Windows XP comes with a version of RDP client
that does not recognize certain printer ports begining with anything other
than LPT, COM, etc.
If the RDP client on the XP box is older than 5.2.3790 - then you should
upgrade to the latest client for the XP box.
My suggestion is to download Microsofts' latest RDP client located here
(watch for word wrap!):
<http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=a8255ffc-4b4a-40e7
-a706-cde7e9b57e79&DisplayLang=en>

I am willing to bet this will fix your problem.

-Mike
 
And if that doesn't fix it, then on the client PC, do
this:

Share the printer, such that is has a
\\PCname\printername = UNC

Start | Run | cmd <enter>
net use lpt1: \\PCname\printername<enter>

Kind of a kludgy workaround, and hopefully the other
fellow's fix will take care of it, but this might be
useful for you in the future. For instance, if someone
else uses your printer as their default, that command on
their PC will allow them to print while logged in to a
term serv session.
 
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