Windows Vista and HP Laserjet 6P--installed software but can't print. Item stuck in queue

Question

I have found plenty of answers to my problem relating to Windows 7 but not for Vista.
I picked up a used HP Laserjet 6P which is supposed to be in working order.
I attached the printer with a parallel port-USB adapter and installed the software using the HP Wizard. All looked good but when I go to print, the page stays in queue and the printer windows say Error.
I tried using the HP diagnostic tool but it can't detect the Laserjet 6P.
I tried setting up via a different USB port (USB001 Virtual Port) and creating a new one (Standard TCP/IP Port) but neither worked.
Any idea how I can make this work or is is just too outdated?
Thank you

Answer 1

Hi @harleywish 
I wonder if the issue might be related to the print spooler rather than a port. Please try bypassing the spooler to see if you can print directly to the printer.
1. Click on start and go to devices and printers.
2. Right click on  the printer and click on printer properties.
3. Choose the option "Print directly to the printer".
4. Click apply and then ok.
If this works follow the next steps and try to print again.
Hold down the Windows Logo key () on the keyboard and the 'R' to open the run box
Type services.msc and press Enter
Locate Print Spooler and double click on it to open the Spooler properties 
Make sure startup type is set to Automatic, if it is not please click on the drop down and choose Automatic
Under Service status, please Stop the server, and then wait a moment and click Start
If bypassing the spooler does not result in a successful print, let me know.
Please click the Thumbs up icon below to thank me for responding.
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Sunshyn2005 - I work on behalf of HP