Plotting - "Severe Error"

Hello,

I am using AutoCAD 2004 - plan, no add-ons.

I just started a new project. When I tried to plot another companies
drawings, I would type "plot" from paperspace. Then I would get a
small dialog box that would say "Severe" across the top and "file
error". My only option is to hit "OK". When I do, the print dialog
box pops up, I select my settings and hit "Full Preview". I get the
same error, hit ok, and then I can preview. When I get out of the
preview, I hit ok to plot and get the same error a third time. I hit ok
and it plots without a problem.

At first I thought this was an error in their drawings - compatibility
issues or something. But now it happens in all of my drawings. A
co-worker had the same problem and our IT dept had to reformat her
computer after not being able to resolve it. I'd like to avoid this.
Any thoughts on what is happening or why?

Thanks,

BM