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Printing is an essential function of any computer system, and just like any other hardware, printers too sometimes encounter issues. One such problem that prevents the printer from functioning correctly is the “Bidirectional Support” issue. This problem occurs mainly in Windows 7 operating system and halts the printer’s printing function.
Therefore, in this blog post, we’ll guide you on how to enable bidirectional support for printers on Windows 7, along with the possible reasons why this issue occurs and how to fix it.
Video Tutorial:
The Challenge of Enabling Bidirectional Support for Printer Windows 7
The “Bidirectional Support” problem prevents printers from printing correctly. Unlike other printer-related problems, bidirectional support is complicated and may require some effort to resolve. Bidirectional support allows communication between the printer and the computer, informing the former of any changes in the printing process, such as toner levels, printing queue, paper tray, and more. When the computer and the printer cannot pass this information between each other, the bidirectional support issue occurs.
This problem is more prevalent in Windows 7 operating system, but it doesn’t mean it doesn’t happen in other operating systems too. With that said, let’s take a look at how to enable bidirectional support for printers in Windows 7.
Things You Should Prepare for
Before enabling bidirectional support, you’ll need to ensure the following:
- The Printer you’re using should have Windows 7-compatible drivers.
- You have access to the Administrator account and have sufficient administrative privileges.
- You have an active internet connection to download missing drivers or software.
- You have your printer connected correctly to the computer or network.
Method 1: Enable Bidirectional Support using Printer Properties
Here are the steps on how to enable bidirectional support using printer properties:
- Go to your Windows 7 PC’s Start Menu and click on “Devices and Printers.”
- Select the Printer you’re trying to fix and right-click on it. Once done, click on “Printer Properties.”
- In the Printer Properties window, navigate to the “Ports” tab and select the check-box “Enable Bi-Directional Support.”
- Click on Apply and Restart your Computer.
Pros:
- Enabling bidirectional support is easy and straightforward.
- It does not require the installation of any third-party software.
Cons:
- The issue may still persist even after enabling bidirectional support.
- Some printer models may not support bidirectional communication with the computer.
Method 2: Install a Printer-Specific Bidirectional Communication Driver
If the issue is still unresolved after applying Method 1, you can try downloading and installing a printer-specific bidirectional communication driver. Here’s how to do it:
- Go to your printer manufacturer’s website, and navigate to the “Support” or “Downloads” section.
- Search for your printer model and download the “Bidirectional Communication Driver” software file for your Windows 7 operating system.
- Once downloaded, install the software and follow the on-screen instructions carefully.
- After installation, restart your computer and check if bidirectional communication is enabled.
Pros:
- Installing the printer-specific bidirectional driver often resolves the issue completely.
- It ensures compatibility between the printer and the computer.
Cons:
- It requires downloading and installing an additional software, which may affect system performance.
- It may not work with all printer models.
Method 3: Updating your Printer Drivers
Outdated printer drivers can sometimes result in malfunctioning communication between the printer and computer. Updating them may help resolve the bidirectional support issue. Here’s how to update your drivers:
- Go to your Windows Start Menu and type “Device Manager” in the search bar.
- Once opened, search for your printer under “Printers” and select it.
- Right-click on the printer name and select “Update Driver Software.”
- You can choose to let Windows search for the driver update or manually search for it on the manufacturer’s website.
- After updating the driver, restart your computer.
Pros:
- Updating drivers can often resolve many performance-related issues.
- It usually doesn’t require downloading additional software.
Cons:
- Locating and downloading drivers can be challenging for some users.
- The computer must have an active internet connection.
Method 4: Configure the Printer Spooler Service
If none of the above methods worked for you, you can try configuring the printer spooler service. Here are the steps:
- Go to the Windows Start Menu and type “Services” in the search bar.
- Select the “Services” app and find “Printer Spooler” in the list.
- Right-click on “Printer Spooler” and click on “Properties.”
- Set the “Startup type” option to “Automatic” and click on “Apply.”
- Reboot your Computer.
Pros:
- Configuring the printer spooler service is simple and easy.
- It does not require downloading or installing any new software.
Cons:
- This method may not work with all printer models or types.
- It does not guarantee the resolution of the bidirectional support issue.
Why Can’t I Enable Bidirectional Support for Printer on Windows 7?
There can be several reasons why you cannot enable bidirectional support for printers on Windows 7. Some of these reasons include:
1. The printer driver is out of date or incompatible with the Windows 7 operating system.
2. The printer has no bidirectional communication capabilities.
3. Incorrect and inconsistent printer settings.
4. There is an issue with the printer spooler service or any associated printer drivers or software.
To resolve these issues, you can try any of the four methods mentioned above and see which one works best for your printer’s particular issue.
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips that can help you resolve the bidirectional support issue:
1. Ensure that your printer has the latest firmware update installed. You can check the manufacturer’s website for the latest firmware as per your printer’s model.
2. Try to reset the printer to the factory settings. This option can be found in the printer’s menu.
3. Try disabling any antivirus or firewall settings temporarily as they might interfere with your printer’s communication.
5 FAQs about Enabling Bidirectional Support for Printer Windows 7
Q1: How do I know if my printer supports bidirectional communication?
A: You can check your printer’s manual or the manufacturer’s website for model specifications. Most printers nowadays support bidirectional support, but it’s always best to verify before troubleshooting.
Q2: Can I use the same method to enable bidirectional support for a network printer?
A: Yes, you can use the same methods to enable bidirectional support on a network printer as long as your PC can communicate with the printer over the network.
Q3: Will enabling bidirectional support affect the printer’s performance?
A: No, enabling bidirectional support will not affect your printer’s performance. In fact, it’s an essential feature that helps notify users of any changes in the printing process and enables smooth communication.
Q4: Do I need to restart my printer and PC after enabling bidirectional support?
A: After enabling bidirectional support, you only need to restart your PC. There is no need to restart your printer as it will automatically detect any changes made to its settings.
Q5: Can I enable bidirectional support using the command prompt?
A: Yes, you can enable bidirectional support using the Command Prompt window. Type “net stop spooler” to stop the spooler service and “net start spooler” to start it again.
In Conclusion
The “Bidirectional Support” problem can be frustrating and can halt your printer’s printing function. However, there are several methods to enable bidirectional support for printers on Windows 7. You can follow any of these methods, and we’re confident that you’ll be able to get your printer functioning correctly again. Just remember to ensure that you have the latest and compatible printer drivers installed and have the required administrative privileges.