Why does printing slow down the comp?

[hito]

I'm just wondering why is it while something is printing, it slows down my comp? Opening a program, file, etc. Is it just my printer or is it like this for all printers? It's an Epson Stylus Color 600.

 

[corkyg]

Does your printing software have a spooler installed? If not, that would cause what you describe.

 

[WHipLAsh13]

Most printer have little to no ram so they use your pc as a buffer or spool.

 

[snow]

Get a printer that uses USB. All problems solved.

 

[hito]

Thanks for the replies!
Yes the software does have a spooler when printing.
It's not like my system is slow or anything, its only 6months old. Still can't believe that it still slows my comp down
USB hmm... well I guess i'll switch to a USB printer as soon as this one breaks down