Windows server 2008 R2 print server - printbrm not working

Question

I am attempting to migrate a Windows 2008 R2 print server (queues, drivers et. al.) using printbrm. However, logged in as a domain admin, when trying to export, I keep getting the most frustrating and generic error from printbrm. Using the GUI or the Command Line, either with elevated privilege.

Log Name:      Application  
Source:        Microsoft-Windows-PrintBRM  
Date:          5/8/2012 10:18:52 AM  
Event ID:      57  
Task Category: (7)  
Level:         Error 
Keywords:      Classic  
User:          N/A  
Computer:      PRINT SERVER  
Description:  
Printbrm.exe (the Printer Migration Wizard or the command-line tool) failed to place a file in cabinet (CAB) file FILE.printerExport while backing up print queues. Error reported: 0x80004005. Unspecified error
. This can occur if the user does not have permission to create a file in the destination location, or if there is insufficient disk space or system resources.

Solution

Run the GUI as an administrator? I know that many times, even logging in as an admin won't cut it for windows. Right-click the GUI file/exe and select 'run as administrator.' Give password, and try from there.

edit: ok. here.
What is the size of the \windows\system32\spool\drivers directory on the machine you are backing up? If it's near 2gig you are hitting the max file size for cab formatted files

Source i found. looks like a very simlar problem, and an answer. good luck.

Comments

[joeqwerty]

Try running it from an elevated command prompt.

[user95587]

already done this, same error message

[user95587]

just tried this, same error message

[user95587]

now this sounds interesting - working.... Yup, my drivers directory is 2.9GB. Sounds like I need to work it down and try again.

[user95587]

following the directions on the link, cleaning out \windows\system32\spool\drivers and deleting unused drivers with the print management tool, I pushed the size down to 1.8GB and prinbrm worked. Thanks!! –

[acolyte]

glad i could help!