I have windows 7. I am having same problem. I run the print and scan doctor and everything says it is okay, even says the test print goes okay, but I get a printer error that says the computer is unable to communicate with printer, even though it is plugged in, turned on, and the usb is connected. It only works if I unplug and plug back in, but I have to do that for every job.
Should I return and buy a different brand? I love my 8500.