If you are like me, upgrading your computer and figuring out how to run your old software and legacy the hard way can be a tedious and frustrating task. Have you ever got a new computer home and realized that your scanner, camera, or beloved printer won't work with the new technology? New software and hardware features contribute new possibilities for the future, but your old truthful peripherals are left on the wayside.
So what can you do with an old printer and won't work with your new equipment? Well it depends on what's wrong with meshing your old and new technology.
Software Incompatibilities
When Windows Vista and 7 first came out, there were many consumers "waiting in line" for Hp to publish drivers specifically for their computer. Some drivers were never written and made available to the public. It is easy to see why, Hp has minuscule incentive to contribute drivers for older printers when they encourage upgrading to a new printer (which may use more costly toner).
As a suggestion, you could try using older printer drivers for your newer operating system. You may also want to try using drivers for a slightly dissimilar printer (one model estimate up or down) from yours. Drivers for printers turn very minuscule from operating principles version to operating principles version.
Hardware Incompatibilities
For example, if you get a new computer and perceive that your older Hp LaserJet 1100, 3100, 3200, or 4600 printer does not have a parallel (or centronics) connector, you can purchase an adapter. This adapter (or two) goes in the middle of the printer and the new computer. Windows (or Snow Leopard) should setup the Usb drivers automatically and then automatically setup the printer drivers. In the example of the Hp 1100 cable, you could purchase a "mini centronics" to centronics adapter and then purchase a Usb to parallel cable. I have seen a lot of success with this combination. These cables are sold by many reputable cables.
Resurrecting an Old LaserJet Printer