How to Troubleshoot a HP 1200 Printer (4 Steps)

Make sure that your HP LaserJet 1200 printer is connected to your computer and turned on. A single USB cable should be plugged into both the LaserJet 1200 and into your computer at a USB port. If this cable is not present, you won't be able to use your printer. Likewise, the printer needs to be on at all times when you try to use it. Press the 'Power' button to turn the unit on.
Install the printer-driver software. Packaged with your HP LaserJet 1200 printer was a CD-ROM. Put this CD-ROM into your computer and click on the 'Install' button to install the necessary software to operate your HP LaserJet 1200 printer. Restart your computer. You should now be able to use your printer as normal.
Change your ink cartridges. The ink levels of the HP LaserJet 1200 printer are not infinite--eventually you are going to have to go to the store and buy replacement ink cartridges for your unit. If you're attempting to print out a color document and certain colors are not appearing correctly or at all, this means that you're low on ink. Buy compatible ink cartridges from a store and then replace the empty ones from your unit to continue to use your HP LaserJet 1200 as intended.
Reset your HP LaserJet 1200. Just as with a computer, your HP LaserJet 1200 has internal memory. If an error gets stored in the unit's memory, it could cause it to print documents incorrectly. Unplug your HP LaserJet 1200 from the wall and let it sit unplugged for a few minutes (typically two minutes will be enough). This will reset the unit's memory. Plug it back in and attempt to print your document again.