OS X Mountain Lion: If the software for your printer can’t be found
If the software for a printer isn’t on your Mac, OS X can usually download it from Apple when it’s needed. If OS X can’t find the software for your printer, you may need to use generic printer software or try to download it again. Printer software is also called a printer driver.
- Choose Apple menu > Software Update to update printer software.
OS X updates its list of available printer software, and it downloads and installs updates for any printer that’s in your list of printers.
- Try using AirPrint or generic printer software.
To use AirPrint or generic printer software, choose Add Printer from the Printer pop-up menu in the Print dialog. Select your printer and choose AirPrint, Generic PostScript Printer, or Generic PCL Printer from the Use pop-up menu. If you don’t see these options in the Use pop-up menu, your printer doesn’t support them.
If your printer can use AirPrint, your Mac doesn’t need printer software for your printer.
If you choose generic printer software, you should be able to print, but you may not be able to use some of your printer’s special features.
- Try to add the printer again. Choose Add Printer from the Printer pop-up menu in the Print dialog. Then select your printer, choose Select Printer Software from the Use pop-up menu, and select the software for your printer.