3 Steps: How to Resolve PCL XL Error in Printer on Windows 10/11

Background Introduction

When it comes to printing out your document, the process is typically smooth and straightforward. However, there may be times when unforeseen issues arise, causing difficulties in communicating with the printer. In such cases, you might encounter an "PCL XL Error in Printer" message on your computer screen. This error commonly occurs in laser jet printers when you attempt to send a surplus number of pages beyond the printer's processing limit to the print queue.

Additionally, this error message may appear on the screen if there is corruption in the system or the printer's driver becomes outdated. This can happen due to updates in the operating system or conflicts arising from third-party software. We will delve into this problem in detail and recommend appropriate solutions to address it.

What is the PCL XL Error? The PCL XL error, also known as "PCL XL Error - Subsystem: Kernel," is a printing issue that typically occurs when using a Hewlett-Packard (HP) printer or a printer that supports the PCL XL language. PCL (Printer Command Language) and its enhanced version, PCL XL, are programming languages designed to help printers interpret complex graphical and text-based print commands. This error usually arises due to compatibility issues between the printer driver, the document being printed, or the printer's firmware. Some common causes of the PCL XL error include: 1. **Outdated Printer Driver**: An outdated or incompatible printer driver can lead to errors in interpreting the print job. 2. **Incompatible Document Format**: The file you're trying to print might contain elements that the printer has trouble processing. 3. **Firmware Issues**: A problem with the printer's firmware could cause unexpected errors. 4. **Memory Overload**: Large print jobs may exceed the printer's memory capacity, resulting in an error. 5. **Malfunctioning Hardware**: Issues with the printer hardware, such as a damaged printhead or low ink levels, can trigger the error. To resolve the PCL XL error, you can try the following solutions: 1. **Update Printer Driver**: Download and install the latest printer driver from the manufacturer's website. 2. **Change Print Settings**: Try printing in a different format, like PDF or PCL5, which might be more compatible with your printer. 3. **Update Firmware**: Check for firmware updates and install them if available. 4. **Reduce Print Job Complexity**: Simplify the document by removing images or complex formatting. 5. **Restart Printer and Computer**: Sometimes, simply restarting both devices can resolve temporary issues. 6. **Contact Support**: If none of these steps work, contact HP support or your printer manufacturer for further assistance.

HP has developed the Printer Command Language (PCL) for its inkjet printers, which is also referred to as PCL 6 or PCL XL. It is a robust printer driver designed for printing tasks. PCL XL is particularly optimized for printing through the Graphical User Interface (GUI) like Windows and employs compression techniques for efficiency.

The PCL XL error occurs when you attempt to print multiple documents at the same time. This issue might be caused by a corrupted printer driver. Occasionally, incorrect printer settings can also lead to this error.

What Causes the PCL XL Error?

Regardless of whether you are a Windows, Mac, or Linux user, the PCL XL Error can occur on any operating system. This issue arises when certain characters present in the data stream for printing are not comprehensible by the printer, thus resulting in an error.

There may be various causes that lead to the issue, such as:

1. The printer needs to parse the system font in a specific or correct manner.
2. Competing applications like antivirus software running on the system or print management suites may disrupt the print data stream, causing characters to not translate properly.
3. The printer driver might have become corrupted or is outdated, resulting in compatibility issues with printing modules.
4. Occasionally, the user profile becomes corrupted, leading to unparseable characters during the printing process.

Solution 1: Restarting the Print Spooler Service

Occasionally, when using the printer, if you send a print command, the spooler service might become stuck, resulting in the PCL XL Error. In this situation, you can attempt to restart the service and check if the problem is resolved.

Useful Steps:

Step 1. Tap on 'Windows', then click on "Services." After that, right-click on it and select the "Run as administrator" option.

Step 2. If a UAC prompt appears, click "Yes," then right-click "Print Spooler."

Step 3. After restarting the printer, you need to check if the issue has been resolved or if it still persists.

Solution 2: Performing a Cold Restart

Occasionally, temporary communication glitches can occur between the printer and the system, which might result in a PCL XL Error in the printer. For instance, performing a cold reset of the printer, along with the networking equipment and the system, might rectify the issue.

Useful Steps:

Step 1. Turn off the printer, networking equipment such as extenders, routers, etc., and the computer.

Step 2. Wait for 5 minutes after unplugging the power cables from the mentioned devices.

Step 3. Turn on the router after reconnecting the devices.

Step 4. Before rebooting the system, let the lights stabilize.

Step 5. Once the system boots up, turn on the printer and wait until it is fully operational.

Step 6. Verify if the printer operation has resumed.

Solution 3: Rename the File Associated with Your Printer

You can attempt to rename your file to resolve the PCL XL Error in the printer and check if that rectifies the issue.

Useful Steps:

Step 1: Proceed by pressing the "Windows key + E" on your keyboard. This will initiate the opening of the File Explorer.

Step 2: Next, navigate to the following location: C:\Windows\System32\spool\drivers\x64\3

Step 3: Following that, you need to filter your files to display only those with the .gpd extension. Locate the "Type" option and tap on the arrow next to it.

Step 4: Select the GPD file.

Step 5: Rename the file according to your preferences. Before assigning new names to your files, make sure you have created a successful backup.

Step 6: Save your changes and restart your computer.

Once your system is up and running, try printing the necessary documents again to see if the solution resolves the issue for you.

Conclusion

Printers are invaluable tools that bring your office tasks to life with their functionality. They simplify the handling of numerous documents by converting essential digital information into tangible copies. However, occasionally, your HP LaserJet printer might encounter issues while printing, which could stem from driver problems or require adjustments in printing settings. We hope that the solutions we've proposed will assist you in promptly resolving the PCL XL Error in Printer.