Someone recently requested assistance after they encountered a problem with using Microsoft Access 2003 to edit and print reports from previously created databases. After listening to a brief description of the problem, it was evident that the cause of their problem was a combination of using Microsoft Access 2003 and having an HP LaserJet printer as their default network printer.
I first observed this problem nearly two years ago during a migration from Microsoft Windows 2000 and Office XP to Microsoft Windows XP Professional and Office 2003. After the migration, some users complained about being unable to create, view, edit, and/or print reports from Microsoft Access 2003 whereas prior to the migration they could do the aforementioned without any problems.
Problem Description:
Users cannot create, view, edit, and/or print reports from previously created databases. The program simply ignores their actions and does not give them an error message. From their perspective, it appears like a pop-up blocker is stopping the report from being displayed.
Solution:
1. Click on Start, then Printers and Faxes
2. Right-click on the default printer, then select Printing Preferences…
3. Click on the Advanced tab, then expand Document Options
4. Now disable Advanced Printing Features.
Note: The above is a per-user setting. So you will have to apply the new configuration setting to each designated computer for each individual user account.
Alternative Solutions:
1. Select a local printer as your default printer instead of a network printer attached to a print server.
2. Update the existing printer driver with a newer version available from the manufacturer.
3. Replace the existing printer driver with a similar one from the manufacturer. For example, instead of using a PCL driver you may want to try a PostScript driver or even a PCL driver from an earlier model.
Comments:
The above problem has been observed with an HP 4050N, 4100, and 8100 LaserJet printer. However, this solution may also apply to other HP printer models.
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