CompuServe Messages

I have a 4L which experienced many of the problems that others have been mentioning (Cable not connected message…..) When I spoke to an HP technician I was told to use LPT1.DOS rather than LPT1. My problems cleared up but now I no longer get the messages that the printer sends back (ie Out of Paper) which I suppose is really no big deal. Aside from that, when printing a larger document the printer basically locks up the computer, or the computer becomes very slow and "jerky" which Windows print manager really should prevent by handling the printing in the background. My suspicion is that LPT1.DOS somehow circumvents the Print manager but I don't know. What I would like to know is, in many of the responses there is mention of the windows printing system, how do I know what version I have ?, How do I get a copy if I need an upgrade?, and Will the new version allow me to use LPT1, get the printer messages, and not interfere with the computers operation?? Thanks very much for your help in advance. Rob