16-Bit Windows-Based Applications May Hang w/Network Printer

• Microsoft Windows NT operating system version 3.1
• Microsoft Windows NT Advanced Server version 3.1
• Microsoft Windows NT Server version 4.0
• Microsoft Windows NT Workstation version 4.0

In Windows NT, if you lose your connection to a network printer and it is set as the default printer, 16-bit Windows-based applications may load significantly slower than usual or appear to hang completely.

When 16-bit Windows-based applications, such as Write, attempt to load, they may search for a printer. If the printer is a network printer and the connection has been broken, the application may load very slowly or appear to hang.

WORKAROUND

To work around this problem, install a local printer and set it as the default, reestablish the network connection, or remove the network connection entirely.

MORE INFORMATION

Steps to Reproduce Problem

1. In Print Manager, connect to a network printer and set it as your default printer.

2. Close Print Manager and return to Program Manager.

3. Open Write from the Accessories group twice.

   NOTE: The reason for doing this twice is that if no other 16-bit Windows-based applications have been loaded, the first launch of Write will take longer because it has to load the 16-bit Windows Subsystem.

4. Notice the time Write takes to load.

5. Close all instances of Write.

6. Unplug the network cable from the network card.

   NOTE: Consult with your Network Administrator before removing any network hardware.

7. Restart Write and notice the extra time it takes to load.