installing printer problems

[grace35401]

I tried to install a new printer but once the installsheild wizard starts the screen that says it's checking for previous scanner instalation it hangs.

I then tried to install new printer and when it says updating hardware information database it hangs. I use the task manager and it says it's not responding.

I then tried installing new hardware and the same thing happens.

I tried reinstalling windows and it hangs when I click finish for it to start copying files.

I am using Windows ME.

Thanks,
Cindy

[ghost_of_war]

If it hangs while trying to reinstall Windows ME, I would first anf foremost run a virus scan. You can do this online for free at www.antivirus.com -

If no virus is found and the problem persists, you might want to consider a fresh reinstall. It seems being it is hanging when you try to overwrite Windows ME with Windows ME that you won't be able to successfully get past this problem unless you wipe out your HD and start from scratch. Now, that is what I would do. Someone may have an alternate method to fixing your problem. And for data sake, I would begin to backup your important files just in case the system refuses to boot at all one day and you've lost your data due to the fact you had to do a cold install of the OS... if this sounds Greek to you, please smack me.

[Dan]

Hi Cindy and welcome to the forum...
do you still have an older printer or scanner still installed?
if so, remove it in device manager (rt. ckick on my computer, choose properties) and try again to install the new one after reboot.
I would not recommend reinstalling your os until you get things worked out. Sometimes installing an os over itself can just complicate matters.
another question: do you have some sort of installation disc for the printer? what is the printer you are trying to install? running a printer's cd might make the process easier.
let us know if any of this helps...

[grace35401]

Thank you Dan and Ghost. I have finally gotten my printer installed. I reinstalled windows me twice and it took all night the second time. The first time I stopped it because it seemed to take so long. The printer got installed after leting it run all night.
Next is to install the i e update. It stops after 74%. Perhaps if I let it run all night it will install.
Thanks for the adivce. Next, I may try and see if I install windows xp home if that straightens things out.
Cindy

[ghost_of_war]

Cindy, word of advice. If you are going to install XP, I would recommend formatting your hard drive and do a fresh install. I have seen lockups and problems when people install XP over ME without formatting the HD first...

[grace35401]

Thanks Ghost for the advice. I guess I'll hold off on installing windows xp. I hate having to reformat my HD.