If you are unable to install the printer due to a port issue, try installing the PCL 5 Universal Print Driver and see if that helps. I am curious to know if you had to do an uninstall/re-install because you lost communication with the printer (implying the USB plug on the printer is malfunctioning).
Also, check your Device Manager by right-clicking on My Computer and selecting Manage Computer. Under the View tab, show all hidden devices and let me know if you see any errors under the Universal Serial Bus or exclamation points elsewhere.
If you need any more help, please specify which printer you have so that I can provide the best assistance.
