Configuring Legacy Apps to Use Network Printers in Windows Vista

Step 1:  Map LPT Port(s) to network printer shares:

·        Open a Windows Command Prompt (Start button, Run, cmd.exe, [Enter])

·        Execute the following command with appropriate settings for your network.  Items indicated in red should be replaced with your settings.

o   net use lpt1: \\server\printer /persistent:yes

·        Repeat the command for as many LPT ports you wish to use.  Change the setting “lpt1:” to the appropriate port (i.e. lpt2:, lpt3:, etc.)

·        If the commands execute successfully, you will see a response similar to the example below.

Step 2:  Create a Printer Profile for your new virtual printer port(s):

·        Add Printer (option under Control Panel, Printers).

·        Select “Add a local printer.”

·        Select the appropriate existing printer port (i.e. LPT1, LPT2) configured in the steps above, click Next.

·        Select the appropriate printer driver, click Next.

·        Assign a printer name, click Next.

·        Set Printer Sharing options according to your needs, click Next.

·        Click Finish.

Step 3:  Configure the Legacy App to use either the printer profile or the virtual LPT port.