Fix LPT Printer “Not Available” on Windows 10/11 (New Easier Method – Epson TM-U220)
Midniche - If you’ve ever tried connecting an old Epson receipt printer to a modern Windows PC, you probably know the struggle 😅
The printer installs fine… but Windows shows the scary message:
Printer status: Not Available
For years, the workaround involved complicated tricks like Generic/Text Only drivers and compatibility mode.
But good news — there’s now a much simpler and cleaner method that works reliably on Windows 10 and Windows 11.
This guide explains the newest working setup using Epson Advanced Printer Driver 4.12.0006. No complicated tricks required.
What Is Epson APD?
Epson APD (Advanced Printer Driver) is the official driver package designed for Epson POS and receipt printers such as:
• TM-U220
• TM-U230
• TM-T82 and similar models
It manages communication between Windows, the print spooler, and virtual USB ports.
Older APD versions often required manual tweaking.
The newer APD 4.12E (4.12.0006) is much more compatible with modern Windows systems.
Why LPT Printers Show “Not Available”
Legacy printers use the parallel LPT port, which no longer exists on modern computers.
When you use a USB-to-LPT cable, Windows creates a virtual USB printing port.
The printer still expects traditional communication, so Windows marks it as unavailable.
However, printing can still work perfectly once the driver and ports are configured correctly.
Why This New Method Is Better
Compared to older tutorials, this approach is far simpler:
• No Generic/Text Only driver needed
• No compatibility mode required
• Faster installation process
• Stable with Windows spooler
• Works well with POS software
• Much less troubleshooting
In many cases, the printer works immediately after setup.
Requirements
Before starting, make sure you have:
• Windows 10 or Windows 11
• Epson TM-U220 (or similar LPT printer)
• USB-to-LPT converter cable
• Epson Advanced Printer Driver v4.12E (4.12.0006)
Tip: Search Google for the exact version mentioned above and download it from a trusted source.
Step-by-Step Setup (Simplified Method)
Follow these steps carefully.
Step 1 — Install Epson APD 4.12.0006
- Extract the driver package
- Run the Setup installer
- Follow the installation wizard until completion
No compatibility mode is required.
Step 2 — Install Printer as Epson TM-U230
Here’s the important trick.
Even if your printer is TM-U220, choose TM-U230 during installation.
Why?
Because the TM-U230 driver in the latest APD version works better with USB-to-LPT converters.
Select Epson TM-U230 when prompted and finish the installation.
Step 3 — Open Printer Properties
- Go to Devices and Printers
- Right-click the newly installed Epson printer
- Open Printer Properties
Step 4 — Configure Printer Ports (Key Step)
Go to the Ports tab and enable:
✔ Enable bidirectional support
✔ Enable printer pooling
Then select BOTH of these ports:
✔ USB003 (Virtual USB Port)
✔ ESDPRT001 (Created by APD installer)
Note:
If USB003 doesn’t appear, you may see USB001 or USB002.
Test one at a time if needed.
Click Apply.
Step 5 — Check Advanced Printing Settings
Open the Advanced tab and verify:
• Driver: Epson TM-U230
• Spool print documents → Enabled
• Do NOT enable “Print directly to the printer”
Leave everything else as default and click OK.
Step 6 — Print Test Page 🎉
Now perform a test print:
- Open Printer Properties
- Click Print Test Page
If the printer prints successfully, setup is complete!
Why Printer Pooling Helps
Printer pooling allows Windows to send print jobs through multiple ports simultaneously.
This improves compatibility with USB-to-LPT adapters and makes communication more reliable.
That’s why this method works so well.
Tips for Long-Term Stability
After everything works:
• Always use the same USB port
• Avoid automatic driver updates
• Don’t uninstall APD unnecessarily
• Avoid unplugging the converter while PC is running
Once it works, leave the configuration untouched.
Final Thoughts
Legacy hardware like the Epson TM-U220 can still run perfectly on modern Windows systems. With the latest Epson APD driver and the correct port configuration, the “Printer Not Available” message becomes harmless.
This method is faster, cleaner, and far more stable than older workarounds — perfect for POS and cashier setups.
Hopefully this guide helps you bring your receipt printer back to life 👍
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