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I am using MMS Version 4 73 03. I have not used it in a while, and in the interim had to throw out my faulty printer. Now I cannot even open a script to look at it (or write a new one). I get 'System Error. Code: 1722. The RPC server is unavailable.' Went to Services to restart the RPC and the spooler, to no avail. Does the MMS require a printer to be connected? How can I open MMS without one? Driving me insane!

Yes. Screenwriter 2000 (version 4) requires a printer driver be listed in the Control Panel. It uses that to obtain the proper paper size to calculate the margins against. You do not need a physical printer hooked up.

To me, it sounds like you have recently uninstalled a printer and somehow it disabled the RPC Server and Print Spooler service in Windows. I would do a Google search for that error or try downloading the driver for a common printer like an HP DeskJet or Epson Stylus and install that to see if it re-enables it.

Thanks for that Ken, I did try downloading drivers, installing printer software, etc, but only for old printer. Will continue the search! Many thanks. Will let you know when this is solved.

Hi again Ken. I tried to install an HP driver, but again it says that the spooler needs to be started ..and then it tells me how to do that. I have been trying to start it but it always fails.

Not exactly sure; that's a general Windows issue. Perhaps some of the links below might help? Copy and paste them into a new browser tab or window.

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/help/printer-problems-in-windows

http://www.askmehelpdesk.com/computers-beginners/could-not-start-print-spooler-service-local-computer-error-2-a-267158.html

http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/windows_vista-hardware/windows-could-not-start-the-print-spooler-service/21f5eed7-ebf4-45bf-98f4-bbd5046d441f

Many thanks yet again Ken, will try those.

Still no go Ken. It always leads back the error. What if I uninstal MMS and reinstall from the disc again?

Were you able to add a printer in the Control Panel?

When I go to Add A Device, it searches and finds nothing. But there is no printer to attach. I seemed to have tried everything! Is there another way to view MMS scripts?

You should be able to add a printer without needing it to be detected.

In the Window's Control Panel:

1. Click on Hardware and Sound.
2. Under "Devices and Printer", click Add a Printer (not Add a Device).
3. Follow the steps to add a local printer.

Yup, I did try that and i get the error message: 'Windows cant open Add Printer. The local print spooler service is not running. Please restart the spooler or restart the machine'. Which, of course, I have tried. I have been 'round in circles!

Unfortunately, that needs to be rectified first. You tried all the suggestions on those web pages I posted? Beyond that, I'm not exactly sure how to get the Print Spooler service running. Is it set to Automatic already in the Services control panel?

Yes, did all that, set it to automatic, etc, and it just fails.

Keep searching on Google. A solution is bound to be out there. I wish I could help you further to solve the Print Spooler issue, but it's outside my realm of expertise. Once that is fixed, Screenwriter will automatically correct itself.

Not that this would be a reason to upgrade, but the dependence on a printer driver is much less in Screenwriter 6 and wouldn't prevent you from opening your files (in most cases).

Thank you Ken for all your excellent advice - I think it is simply something silly I have done that I havent detected yet. I like the idea of upgrading to 6. I would simply be able to download the upgrade, I belieive. Or would you suggest getting the actual CD? I assume I would be eligible for a discount being as I am already a MMS registered user (i think that is what occurred last time)...

You would be able to download it, and you are eligible for a discount.

http://www.screenplay.com/p-31-movie-magic-screenwriter-6-upgrade.aspx