On Windows NT Server, you want to create a printer pool that uses four identical shared printers to improve throughput and availability. What key configuration must be applied consistently for pooling to work correctly?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Specify the same printer driver and settings for all printers

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Printer pooling lets one logical printer object distribute jobs to multiple identical physical printers. Users print to a single share name while the server directs jobs to any available device, improving capacity and uptime.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Four physical printers are to be pooled under one logical printer.
  • Windows NT Server supports 'Enable printer pooling' on the printer object.
  • Devices should be functionally identical for predictable output.


Concept / Approach:
Pooling requires that all devices in the pool use the same driver and capabilities so jobs render identically regardless of which device prints them. In practice, you enable pooling on the logical printer and associate multiple ports (each targeting a separate device). Identical drivers and settings ensure layout, finishing options, and fonts behave the same across devices.



Step-by-Step Solution:

Install the correct driver once for the logical printer.Enable 'Enable printer pooling' in printer properties.Select multiple ports (each mapping to a different physical printer).Confirm all four devices use the same driver/settings so jobs are interchangeable.


Verification / Alternative check:
Pause one device or set it offline; jobs should flow to other pooled devices without user intervention, producing identical output.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Sharing the same parallel port is impossible for multiple physical devices.
  • Network-interface devices are common but not strictly required; pooling works with any ports as long as devices are identical.
  • Different properties per device can yield inconsistent results and defeat pooling transparency.


Common Pitfalls:
Mixing printers with different accessories (duplexers, trays) or firmware leads to mismatched output; keep hardware and drivers uniform.



Final Answer:
Specify the same printer driver and settings for all printers

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