Resolving Printer not Communicating with Computer Error

“Unable to communicate with the printer at this time” is the common error being faced in the Mac systems. Well, it is frustrating at the first instance, but it will not resolve your problem. In order to resolve this printer not communicating with computer error, you need to check on various issues. On checking those issues which may result in this problem, you need to go with certain solutions to rectify this. So, without wasting much time, let’s start with the guide.

Steps to Resolve Printer not Communicating with Computer

There are various issues that can make it unable to communicate with the printer at this time.  These can be the network issues or can be the system issues. So, let’s discuss one by one to resolve the issue.

Solution 1: Check the Printer Connection and the Internet Connection

  • Make sure the internet is working fine in case you are using wireless printing.

  • The signal must not be weak as it may trouble Mac to connect with the printer.

  • Also, try to keep the printer, Mac system ,and router in the range of 10-15 feet.

  • Make sure the connections are tight in case you are using the wired connection with the printer.

Solution 2: Manage the Print Queue for Pending Printing Jobs

Sometimes, if many printing jobs are pending in the system, then this may also lead to the delay in the printing, or communication error. To resolve this, you need to follow the steps given below:

  • First, go to the System Preferences, and then select the option of Printers and Scanners.

  • Then, click on the option of Open Print Queue.

  • Check each item in the print queue, as nothing should be paused.

  • Resume the paused item in the queue as it could lead to the blocking and communication error.

  • Delete all the items to clear the queue.

Solution 3: Try Pritner’s Diagnostics

If till now, your problem is not resolved, then it is important to run the printer’s diagnostics to identify the issue and fix it. To do so, you need to follow the instructions given below:

  • Again, go to the System Preferences, and then Printers and Scanners option.

  • Now, select the name of the printer in which the communication problem persists.

  • Then, click on the Options and Supplies button.

  • Then, click on the Utility or Diagnostics option.

  • This will check for the various issues, and then provide or apply the solution to fix it.

Printer is Communicating Now!

Your printer should come in an online state, and Printer not Communicating with Computer error should be resolved by now. If still the system is unable to communicate with the printer at this time, then try to add the printer manually again in your system. With this, your printer should complete the setup again, and now you can communicate with your printer for printing jobs!