JSI Tip 2828. 'All Pipe Instances Are Busy' error when copying a file to a LPT port?

Jerold Schulman

September 12, 2000

1 Min Read
ITPro Today logo in a gray background | ITPro Today

When you copy a text document to a LPT port (COPY FolderFileName.TXT LPT1:), you may receive an error:

All pipe instances are busy.

If you close the CMD prompt and re-open one, the COPY generates the same error.

This problem will occur if the COPY command was issued at the same time that the spooler starts to print a spooled print job.

To fix the problem:

net stop spooler
net start spooler


Sign up for the ITPro Today newsletter
Stay on top of the IT universe with commentary, news analysis, how-to's, and tips delivered to your inbox daily.

You May Also Like