The laptop:
Dell Studio 1555, running Windows XP (sp3)
The printer:
HP Deskjet 5743 (usb connection)
The problem:
When connecting the printer - computer freezes. When I disconnect the printer - computer unfreezes. In fact this happens even when the printer is OFF (but still connected to the AC).
Things I've tried and the results:
1. Tried uninstalling the driver for the printer, downloaded a new updated driver and installed it. This solved the problem temporarily. The printer worked fine until the next system restart or power off/on.
2. Tried connecting to different usb ports. All caused freeze.
3. Tried turning off printer and computer, then connecting printer to computer while both are powered off. First powered on computer, but computer froze during Windows boot.
4. Tried different usb cable. Same results.
The only thing I haven't tried yet is to try using the printer with a different computer. I need to bring the printer to where I have a different computer to do this, which won't be until later. If in meantime, someone has a suggestion, I'd love to try it.
Any help will be much appreciated. Thanks!