The problem and my solution
Since Knoppix 3.3 Nov 19 version, I cannot use any of my printers (HP Photosmart 1215 and Epson C82). Live or HDD install on 3 different computers.

I have searched various forums on the net but no luck. YMMV. There may be better ways to solve the problem but this worked for me.

After my install to hard drive I ran
apt-get update
apt-get install foomatic-db-gimp-print
apt-get install cupsys-driver-gimpprint

configured using http://localhost:631

BTW, I like to use the icons on the print manager. Edit
/etc/kde3/kdeprintrc and change
ViewToolBar=true