Changing Printer Model Device Options in Printer Properties via Registry

Changing Printer Model Displayed in Device Options and Printer Properties via Registry

When working with various printer drivers, you might encounter a situation where you need to change the printer model displayed in the Device Options or Printer Properties section. This article will cover the key concepts and detailed context of this topic, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of how to modify these settings using the Windows Registry.

Understanding Printer Models and Drivers

A printer model is a specific design and implementation of a physical printer device. A printer driver is a software component that allows your operating system to communicate with the printer, converting data into a format that the printer can understand and process. Each printer model typically requires a specific driver for optimal performance.

Printer Model Display in Device Options and Printer Properties

When you install a printer driver, the printer model name is displayed in two main locations:

• Device Options: These settings are typically accessed through the application that uses the printer. For example, in Microsoft Word, you can access the Device Options by clicking on File > Print > Printer Properties and then selecting Device Settings or a similar option.
• Printer Properties: These settings are accessed through the Windows Devices and Printers control panel. Right-click on the printer you want to modify, select Printer Properties, and then navigate to the General tab.

Modifying Printer Model Display Using the Registry

You can change the printer model displayed in both Device Options and Printer Properties by modifying the Windows Registry. Before making any changes, ensure you understand the risks associated with editing the registry, as incorrect modifications can cause system instability or other issues. Always create a backup of your registry before making changes.

Step-by-Step Guide

To change the printer model displayed in Device Options and Printer Properties, follow these steps:

1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box, type regedit, and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
2. Navigate to the following path in the Registry Editor:
   HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Print\Printers\
3. Modify the InfPath value to point to the .inf file of the new printer model. This file can usually be found in the %SystemRoot%\inf directory.
4. Modify the Name value to display the new printer model name in Device Options and Printer Properties.
5. Close the Registry Editor and restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

Additional Resources

Here are some useful resources for further reading:

• Microsoft Documentation - INF Files for Printers
• Microsoft Documentation - Printer Registry Keys