FIX: Printer syntax error offending command in Windows

Fix » Peripherals

3 min. read

Updated on October 4, 2023

by Tashreef Shareef

updated on October 4, 2023

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Key notes

PostScript printers are used to print high-quality images, especially in commercial printing and desktop publishing.
High-end PostScript printers come equipped with their own processors which are used to render images while printing so as to reduce the processing strain on the computer CPU. Speaking of printers, you may also want to check out our collection of guides if you want to buy a new one.
If you are using a Postscript printer, sometimes you may encounter an error message informing you the print job failed due to printer syntax errors. In this guide, we'll show you how you can fix this problem.
This guide is part of our troubleshooting hub dedicated to printers. We suggest bookmarking it in case you need other guides later on.

If you are using a Postscript printer, when printing documents you may encounter printer syntax error offending command error. The full error reads: ERROR: syntaxerror OFFENDING COMMAND: –nostringval– STACK: mark

This error can occur while printing from a photo viewer or editing software as well as word processors like Microsoft Wordpad.

If you are also troubled by this error, here are a couple of troubleshooting tips to help you resolve the Printer syntax error offending command in Windows 10.

How to fix syntax error offending command on printers

1. Convert the file to PDF

Open the document in MS Word.
Click on File and select Save as.
Click the drop-down menu for Save as and select PDF from the options.
Enter a name and save the file.
Open the PDF file in a PDF viewer and try to print the file. The printer should print the file successfully.

Several users have reported that converting the word document to a PDF file as helped them resolve the issue. While this is just a workaround, it should help you to take a printout when required.

2. Remove and re-add the printer

Click on Start and select Settings.
Go to Devices.
Select Printers and Scanners.
Scroll down to your installed printer list.
Select your printer and click on Remove device.
Click Yes to confirm the action.

2.1 Uninstall the software

Press Windows Key + R to open Run.
Type control and click OK.
In the Control Panel window, go to Programs > Programs and Features.
Select your printer app from the list of installer apps.
Click on Uninstall. Click Yes if prompted by the UAC.
Follow on-screen instructions to remove the software.

2.2. Add the printer

Download the latest version of your printer‘s software. You can download it from the manufacturer’s website.
Install the printer software.
Next, click on Start > Settings and select Device.
Click on Printers and scanners.
Click on Add a printer or scanner.
Follow on-screen instructions to install the printer.
Now try to print using the newly added printer and check for any improvements.

2.3. Use an automatic tool

To save time and ensure the process is performed correctly, we recommend using a third-party tool that downloads and installs printer drivers automatically.

In order to benefit from this valuable service, then you should get the latest printer drivers to resolve functionality errors for good.

Plus, it offers the warranty of installing and updating the right drivers, without causing system issues on your PC.

⇒ Get Outbyte Driver Updater

3. Use HP universal print drivers

Press the Windows key and search for control.
Click and open Control Panel.
Go to Hardware and Sound > Devices and Printers.
Select your printer from the list and click on Print server properties.
In the Print Server Properties window, select the printer driver.
Click the Remove button. Click Yes to confirm the action.
Close the Properties window and the Control Panel.

3.1 Download HP Universal Print Drivers

Go to HP software and driver download page.
Download and install the latest version of the HP Universal Print driver.
Make sure you re-add the printer and check for any improvements.
- Refer to Method 2

The printer syntax error offending command is a common error that can occur due to various reasons. In this article, we have listed a workaround as well as some quick fixes to help you resolve the issue.

If you’re aware of another fix or workaround for this printer error, let us know about it by leaving a message in the comments section below.