How to Install a Printer for Your PC

by Si Kingston
Install a printer on your PC.

Install a printer on your PC.

dun cat - printer image by Maria Brzostowska from Fotolia.com

A printer is a peripheral device that produces a hard copy of a document or image. To receive data, a printer must be connected to your computer via a printer USB cable. The computer must also have the printer's drivers installed in order to effectively communicate with the printer.

Step 1

Plug your printer into a power outlet.

Step 2

Turn on your PC and make sure all software programs are closed.

Step 3

Insert the printer installation disc into your computer's CD/DVD drive. If you don't have an installation disc, visit the printer manufacturer's website and go to the support section, where you can download installation and driver software for your printer model.

Step 4

Follow the installation prompts. You may be required to set settings on the printer itself, like the date and time for printers that have a fax. You will also be instructed when to put your printer cartridges in place and how (if they are not already installed). The software will tell you when to connect your printer to your computer using the printer's USB cable.

Step 5

Print a test page to verify that the printer is connected correctly. If you can't print, go to the "Start" menu on your PC and access the Control Panel. Select the "Printers and Other Hardware" option. Make sure the printer is "Online." If the printer is "Offline" make sure it is connected correctly to your PC. You may also need to contact the manufacturer's customer support center for further troubleshooting information.

Tip

  • Many manufacturers also offer wireless printers, an option to consider if you have a wireless home network.

About the Author

Si Kingston has been an online content contributor since 2004, with work appearing on websites such as MadeMan. She is a professional screenwriter and young-adult novelist and was awarded the Marion-Hood Boesworth Award for Young Fiction in 2008. Kingston holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Mills College.

Photo Credits

  • dun cat - printer image by Maria Brzostowska from Fotolia.com