We had a couple of 1220C (11x17 capable for plans) that used the #78 tricolor cartidges...they get pricey.
Try to print a test page from the printer itself (not using the computer). The manual will tell you how. This will tell you for sure if it's the printer/cartidges or the computer/software/cable.
Oh yeah, did you snap down the little plastic hold down thing?
I bought a 1220C for a backup printer. I only used it for one project. It would not work if either cartridge is empty. I stored it at my sisters house (out in the garage) for a while, and a mouse filled it up with dog food, now it don't work
. Still has the original color, and only on the second black cartridge.
The cartridge in my Laserjet 5000 (11x17) lasted over 6 years with everyday use. My Laserjet 5200 is going on 5 years, with not so heavy use.
I usually only print out drawings, and I hate waiting for printers
