When you use a 32-bit program to print a document from an x64-based version of Windows, the document may be printed incorrectly (908131)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Windows Server 2003, Datacenter x64 Edition
  • Microsoft Windows Server 2003, Enterprise x64 Edition
  • Microsoft Windows Server 2003, Standard x64 Edition
  • Microsoft Windows XP Professional x64 Edition

SYMPTOMS

You are using a 32-bit program to print a document from an x64-based version of Microsoft Windows. When you select the option to print output that is black and white, the document may be printed incorrectly. For example, the output may be black instead of grayscale (shades of gray).

CAUSE

This problem may occur if the printer uses the GetModuleFileName function to identify the program that is printing the document. When a 32-bit program prints from an x64-based version of Windows, the GetModuleFileName function returns the name of the Splwow64.exe program instead of the name of the program that is printing the document. Therefore, the printer may be unable to correct for variations. Variations include colored fonts or gradient fill in a print job from a program such as Microsoft PowerPoint. For example, colored fonts or gradient fill may be solid black in printed output.

WORKAROUND

To work around this problem, print grayscale output or color output instead of printing black and white output. For more information about how configure the printer options to print grayscale output or color output, see the printer documentation, or contact the printer manufacturer. For information about how to contact printer manufacturer, click the appropriate article number in the following list to view the article in the Microsoft Knowledge Base:

65416 Hardware and software vendor contact information, A-K

60781 Hardware and software vendor contact information, L-P

60782 Hardware and software vendor contact information, Q-Z

STATUS

Microsoft has confirmed that this is a problem in the Microsoft products that are listed in the "Applies to" section.
Modification Type:MinorLast Reviewed:8/1/2006
Keywords:kbprb kbExpertiseInter KB908131 kbAudEndUser kbAudITPRO
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