If you are unable to print a document or PDF file and instead encounter a PCL XL error, you can do a few things to fix the issue. Generally, the PCL XL error seems to happen with HP printers, and HP is aware of the issue and provides various suggestions for fixing it or “working around” it. Here are some of our favorites–after attempting any one suggestion, try printing the document that caused you to see the error.
External Suggestions for Printer Error Resolution
A. Often this type of error is an internal, and usually driver-related, error, but occasionally it is caused by a problem that is external to the computer. It could be hardware-related or printer-related. The first suggestion (if this is not already the case) is to directly connect the printer to the computer using an IEEE-1284 compliant cable. Alternatively, you may need to try using a new IEEE-1284 compliant cable, in case the original is corrupt.
B. Certain features of the printer can be dismantled at the printer itself. Turning off “High Speed” and “Advanced Functions” can fix a PCL XL error.
- On the printer, press the MENU key until i/O Menu appears on the printer’s display screen.
- Press the ITEM key until Parallel High Speed = Yes is on the display.
- Press the VALUE key until the screen reads Parallel High Speed = No.
- Press the SELECT key, and an asterisk will appear, like this: Parallel High Speed = No*.
- Again, hit the ITEM key until Advanced Functions = On appears on the display.
- Press VALUE until Advanced Functions = Off displays.
- Press SELECT and an asterisk should again appear, such as Advanced Functions = Off*.
Fixing the PCL XL Error with Driver Modification
C. Modifying the PCL6 Printer driver settings may fix the issue.
- Right-click on the icon of the printer.
- A drop-down menu appears: select Properties, then select the Finishing tab.
- Under Print Quality, select the button to the left of Custom. Click on Details, when it is bolded.
- In the Details menu, select the drop-down arrow to the right of the text box in the Resolution section.
- Choose a lower resolution (HP recommends trying 600 dpi).
- Click OK on various menus to exit the screens opened.
- Attempt to print a page.
Registry Repair Can Affect Error Messages
Often, the simple reason that a computer is experiencing a lot of errors is the existence of a corrupted registry. Fix and clean the registry with a registry cleaner to resolve your PCL XL error and provide additional error-removal at the same time.







