0x0000003e – Error_No_Spool_Space – Space to Store the File Waiting to Be Printed Is Not Available on the Server

The error code 0x0000003e, called Error_No_Spool_Space, means there isn't enough room on the server to keep print jobs.

This can happen if the hard drive is full, the print queue is too busy, or the printer drivers are old. You might notice that print jobs are stuck, there are delays, or you see messages about low disk space.

To fix this, you can delete unneeded files, manage print jobs better, or upgrade your computer's hardware. Understanding this error is important to keep printing smooth and your system running well.

Regular maintenance can help prevent this issue.

Error meaning:

Error_No_Spool_Space means the computer doesn't have enough temporary storage to handle tasks like printing.

This can cause delays or failures in printing documents and running jobs, making it important to fix so everything works smoothly.

Causes:

Potential reasons for the Error_No_Spool_Space on your system:

1. Not enough free space on the computer's hard drive.
2. Too many print jobs in the queue using up spool space.
3. Temporary files from apps taking up storage.
4. Old or outdated printer drivers.
5. Incorrect printer settings.
6. Network issues, especially with shared printers being used by multiple people.

Symptoms:

Symptoms of low spool space when printing:

1. Error messages like "Error_No_Spool_Space."
2. Print jobs get stuck in the queue for a long time and don't start printing.
3. The print server works slowly, making the network less efficient.
4. Notifications about low disk space pop up, indicating storage issues.

Solutions:

Step 1: Check the server's storage space.

Look for files that you don't need and delete them to free up space.

Step 2: Manage print jobs in the spooler.

If there are big print jobs, you can cancel them or wait until it's a less busy time to print.

Step 3: Increase the size of the spool folder.

This will help it hold larger files without running out of space.

Step 4: Change printer settings.

For documents that aren't very important, set the printer to a lower quality. This makes the files smaller.

Step 5: Upgrade your hardware if needed.

You can add more disk space or use a network storage device to help with storing files.

Step 6: Make sure your server's operating system and printer drivers are up-to-date.

This can help your printing work better and stop future problems.

Impact:

Impact of "No Spool Space" Error:

1. Print Jobs Stop:

No new documents can be printed, causing delays.

2. Backlog of Documents:

More and more documents pile up, waiting to be printed.

3. Frustration for Workers:

Employees can't finish their tasks on time, leading to irritation.

4. Customer Service Issues:

If documents can't be printed quickly, it can upset customers.

5. Missed Business Opportunities:

Important documents that need printing might be delayed, causing lost chances.

6. Less Efficiency:

The whole work process slows down, making it harder to get things done.

7. IT Team Distraction:

Tech support has to fix the problem, taking time away from other important work.

Relevance:

The "No Spool Space" error is commonly associated with Windows operating systems, including Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10, and Windows Server versions.

This error can also occur in software like Microsoft Word and other applications that send print jobs.

When there isn't enough space to hold print jobs, it can cause delays and problems for users trying to print their documents.

Prevention:

How to Avoid the "No Spool Space" Error:

1. Check Disk Space Regularly: Make sure there is enough free space on the computer or server where the print spooler is located.
2. Clear Old Print Jobs: Delete any old or unneeded print jobs from the spooler to free up space.
3. Remove Unnecessary Files: Get rid of files that are not needed to help keep the storage clear.
4. Expand Storage Space: If possible, increase the space available for the print spooler by using more disk space or connecting to a network storage.
5. Prioritize Important Jobs: Set up the print server to handle the most important print jobs first.
6. Educate Users: Teach everyone how to cancel print jobs they no longer need quickly to avoid clutter.
7. Optimize Printer Settings: Adjust printer settings to make print jobs smaller, which will help save space.

People Also Ask

Can This Error Affect Multiple Printers at Once?

Yes, this error can impact many printers at the same time, especially if they are connected to the same network. If there isn't enough space for printing tasks, it can slow down or stop printing on all the printers linked together.

How Can I Check My Server's Current Spool Space?

To check your server's spool space, go to the printer settings in the control panel. Look for the print server's properties and check how much disk space is available in the spool folder. This helps you see if there's enough space for printing.

Is There a Way to Temporarily Bypass This Error?

To fix this error for now, you can try using a different printer that has space, make your print job smaller, or clear out old print jobs. These steps can help solve the problem until you find a lasting fix.

Are There Specific Printer Models More Prone to This Error?

Some printer models, especially older ones, can have more problems with spool space errors. This is because they often have less memory and slower processing power. Keeping the printer updated and well-maintained can help reduce these errors.