Seeing a Sage 50 Printer Not Activated Error 20 when trying to generate financial reports or statements understandably brings accounting activities to a grinding halt. While frustrating, this error 20 generally has straightforward network or workstation configuration issues behind it that Sage 50 users can address to restore printing capabilities.
When Sage 50 Printer Error 20 Appears
The Sage 50 "Printer not activated Error 20" typically shows up when trying to:
- Print statements, invoices or other financial reports from Sage 50
- Export Sage 50 reports to PDF format for electronic distribution
- Utilize accounting data from Sage 50 in other external programs
Essentially, error 20 indicates a disruption in being able to access the default printer or PDF printer port previously configured for exporting Sage 50 reports from that workstation. Resolving network connectivity issues or printer port problems can get report printing back on track.
Validate Windows Printer Connections on the Workstation
As a first step, confirm the default Windows printer previously setup in Sage 50 for reporting is still correctly installed and accessible on that specific workstation itself. Issues like:
- Printer driver becoming corrupted
- Printer cable disconnecting
- Default printer setting changes in Windows
Could all contribute to error 20 appearing for Sage 50 printer access even though device itself remains available on the network.
Verify Network Printer Connectivity and Port Configuration
For networked Sage 50 report printing, double check that the Windows printer port or PDF export port is still present and working properly by testing connectivity to that device from the workstation triggering error 20 messages.
Tweaks to printer sharing settings, port changes, or VPN/firewall conflicts could cause printer inaccessibility from Sage 50 without proper configuration.
Ensure Other Potential Conflicts are Cleared
Identify any other recent changes made on that workstation that could contribute to printer communication problems for Sage:
- Anti-virus or network policies blocking port access
- VPN connections overriding default printer ports
- Permissions limiting user account printer access
- Sage 50 update installation with compatibility issues
Identifying and reversing detected conflicting changes may clear up simple configuration roadblocks causing error 20.
Obtain Remote Technical Support for Persistent Printer Issues
For recurring Sage 50 printer error 20 messages not resolved by basic connectivity and configuration checks, obtain remote Sage support assistance to diagnose further. Provide key details like steps to reproduce the error, recent system changes, and workstation setup specifics.
Sage experts can review intricate configuration issues between Sage 50, printers, Windows settings and your network environment to uncover complex compatibility issues - ensuring printing essentials are restored quickly with minimal workflow disruption.
Adopt Proactive Measures to Prevent Future Printer Conflicts
While occasional Sage 50 software errors may be unavoidable, putting some preventative printer best practices in place reduces future conflicts:
- Maintain Consistent Printers and Ports: Minimize printer changes that require Sage 50 reconfiguration and risk compatibility issues.
- Test Printer Changes: Validate printing works outside Sage 50 after changes before attempting from accounting software again.
- Backup Printer Configurations: Keep a documented record of Sage 50 printer and system specs to simplify troubleshooting.
- Stay Current with Updates: Install the latest Sage 50 hotfixes and service packs to prevent potential printer corruption and incompatibility.
Also Read: Sage 50 Bob Error 5185
Key Takeaways on Resolving Sage 50 Printer Error 20
Getting blocked unexpectedly by a vague Sage 50 Printer Not Activated Error 20 during critical financial reporting can disrupt productivity. But methodically checking network printer connectivity, validating Windows and Sage configurations, reversing potential conflicts and calling support if needed - can get mission critical reporting functionality restored promptly. Maintaining workflow relies on preventative maintenance and having a plan to address configuration issues decisively.
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