How to Fix: PCL XL Error on HP Printer
HP Laserjet 1200 printer error PCL XL IllegalTag fix for Linux Mint.
📋 Table of Contents
The PCL XL error on your HP Laserjet 1200 printer is an indication of an issue with the printer's firmware or configuration. This error affects users who have installed the HPLIP package for Ubuntu and are using Linux Mint 10 with KDE4.6.
This error can be frustrating, especially when you're trying to print a document and your printer suddenly stops working. However, with the right steps, you should be able to resolve this issue and get your printer up and running again.
💡 Why You Are Getting This Error
- The primary reason for the PCL XL error on HP printers is a misconfigured firmware or incorrect installation of the HPLIP package. This can occur due to various reasons such as an outdated or corrupted driver, incorrect printer settings, or a faulty firmware update.
- An alternative reason could be a conflict with another printer driver installed on your system.
🛠️ Step-by-Step Verified Fixes
Updating the HPLIP Package and Printing a Test Page
- Step 1: Open a terminal window and type `sudo apt-get update` to ensure you have the latest package lists. Then, run `sudo apt-get install --reinstall hplip` to reinstall the HPLIP package.
- Step 2: Once the package is reinstalled, restart your printer by turning it off and then back on again. Next, open a terminal window and type `lpoptions -s 'HP LaserJet 1200'` to set the correct printer settings.
- Step 3: Print a test page using the command `print -d hp: /dev/shm/testpage.pclxl` (replace `/dev/shm/testpage.pclxl` with the path to your desired print file). If the test page prints successfully, you can proceed to the next step.
Resetting the Printer Firmware
- Step 1: Download the latest firmware for your HP Laserjet 1200 printer from the HP website. Then, open a terminal window and type `sudo apt-get install -y usb-devices` to ensure you have the necessary tools.
- Step 2: Next, connect your printer to your computer using a USB cable. Open a terminal window and type `usb-devices` to list all connected devices. Find the device ID for your printer and note it down.
- Step 3: Open a text editor and create a new file with the following content: `<#!> HP LaserJet 1200 Firmware Update
` with the firmware version you downloaded and ` ` with `1` for a full update or `2` for a partial update. Save the file and give it a `.pclxl` extension. - Step 4: Open a terminal window and type `print -d hp: /dev/shm/testpage.pclxl` (replace `/dev/shm/testpage.pclxl` with the path to your desired print file). If the test page prints successfully, you can proceed to the next step.
✨ Wrapping Up
If updating the HPLIP package and printing a test page don't resolve the issue, you may need to reset the printer firmware. However, this method is more advanced and requires technical knowledge. Before attempting this, ensure you have backed up any important data on your printer. If you're still experiencing issues after trying these steps, it's recommended to contact HP support or a professional IT technician for further assistance.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
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