How to cancel printing of a queued document that has not been canceled?
It is possible that we accidentally send a text file to the printer or try to print a document without having ink, for example. So, let's look for the option "Cancel print" but the device continues to print without executing the instruction. In this circumstance we say that the printer has been blocked.
Here we explain everything you need to know about the printing process and a procedure for canceling printing of a queued document that is not canceled.
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What is the print queue?
The print queue is a list of jobs waiting their turn to print. It is generated when multiple documents are sent to print to a single device, which in this case is the printer. Since the memory buffer printer does not store all jobs, creates a print queue where they are temporarily stored.
The print queue can be controlled and managed by specific applications for printers or directly by the print manager of the Windows system.
What is the memory buffer?
The memory buffer is a small space of memory that printers need store part of the information provided from the computer. This way, the computer can continue processing other tasks while the printer does its job.
It is important to note that the more memory or space the buffer, the faster the printing process will be, so some users choose professional printers to perform this task optimally.
Where can I see the print queue?
If you have Windows 10 and you want to see the items stored in the print queue, you need to go to the “start menu” and locate the magnifying glass icon on the taskbar. There, type "Printers and scanners" and press the "Enter" key.
A new window will open with a panel divided into two parts. On the left, choose "Printers and Scanners". So, look for the option "Open queue" and so you can see what is printed and the list of items that are waiting to be printed.
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Cancels printing of a spooled document that has not been canceled
If you have already selected the option "Cancel print" but the printer continues to do its job, it means that the processes have been blocked and then you need to perform the following steps:
Step 1. Access the Windows CMD command window to cancel printing a queued document
To do this, go to system finder on the taskbar and type cmd, press the “Enter” key and right click on the executable file “cmd.exe”. Then choose "Run as administrator". This way, you will be able to open the Windows command window.
Step 2. Use the command window
Immediately, you will see the command window. There, you have to type net stop spooler. So, without closing CMD, follow this path “C:WINDOWSsystem32spoolPRINTERS” and proceed with the cancellation of the document you prefer. Also, if you find it necessary, you can delete the entire list of items to clean up the print queue.
Step 3. Return to the command window
Time to go back to the command window so you can type net start spooler. As a result, the print service resumes with the items contained in the folder PRINTERS.
Step 4. Refreshes the print queue display after canceling printing a document
If you still see jobs in the print manager, it means you have to update the queue. In this case, press the "View" button and then "Refresh". As a result, the document you previously canceled will disappear. If at any time you need to correct the printer not activated error in Windows, try updating the drivers and / or reinstalling the printer software.
