hp printer troubleshooting guide

HP PRINTER TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE.

Even though Hewlett-Packard printers are renowned for their dependability, they occasionally require assistance. This article provides a top 10 list you may use to troubleshoot any HP printer, from the common paper jam to the frustrating 50.4 error.

Even in the most demanding conditions, HP printers are normally quite reliable, however they occasionally have issues. And as we all know, printers frequently malfunction when least expected. It’s crucial for an IT support specialist to understand how to resolve the most typical issues with these printers. When using an HP printer, there are ten issues that you should be aware of, and I’ve listed solutions for each of them.

1. Paper Jam

Paper jams are one of the most frequent issues with printers of all brands. There are a variety of reasons why a printer could jam, including filthy paper, the improper kind of paper being used, or worn-out rollers in the printer that feed the paper through its path. While regularly cleaning the printer and using the right paper are simple solutions, replacing the rollers on an HP printer might be challenging depending on the model. The rollers are easily accessible on some HP printer models, however you have to disassemble some others in order to access the rollers. No matter what the source of the paper jam, always pull the paper in the direction of the paper path to avoid damaging the machine.

Paper jams can happen more frequently with some HP printers than others. In my experience, paper jam issues are a given with any printer that holds the paper vertically before pulling it through the printer. These models aren’t designed for extensive use, yet many businesses make use of them on individual systems and should be aware of this problem. Additionally, some users report issues with the paper pickup rollers on the more recent HP 4000 series printers, which is strange given that the pickup rollers on the earlier 4000 and 5000 series HP printers are thought to be extremely reliable and to work without any issues.

2. Some or all of the printing on the page is faded

A faded print image is typically caused by one of three situations: the printer running out of toner, the print density being set too low, or the activation of Economode printing. The current settings for the final two selections will be shown via a printer self-test, which is typically a distinct button on the printer. Turn off Economode or raise the print density if people are complaining that the print is too light when it is on. Simply remove the cartridge and shake it to distribute the toner more evenly if the toner level is low until you can replace the cartridge.

3. Ghosting

A problem known as ghosting occurs when a picture prints correctly, but another, much lighter copy of the image also appears somewhere else. This can be the result of a problem with the outlet that powers the printer. If the issue persists after plugging in a different printer, check the power outlet. When consumable printer components, such as the drum or imaging kit, are on the verge of failure, ghosting may also result. A printer’s consumable components are each rated for a specific number printed pages. To stop ghosting, you’llneed to replace those components after a printer reaches that magic number.

4. Toner smears or does not stay on the paper

There could be a few issues if writing and illustrations lift from the page when a hand is passed over them. First, the fuser assembly could be broken or past its prime. The fuser assembly needs to be changed as a fix. Because the fuser is a consumable printer component and not worth the time or effort to repair, it is generally not advised to repair a fuser assembly. Second, a faulty toner cartridge that leaks too much toner at once is possible. Toner cartridge replacement is the answer for a black-and-white laser printer. Replace only the cartridge in a colour laser printer that is malfunctioning.Third, there may have been some toner spillage in the printer. In that case, you must clear it out.

5. Printer is displaying a 50.4 error message.

Some of the more recent HP LaserJet printers display a 50.4 error message, which denotes a power supply issue. If the printer is plugged into a UPS, unplug it from the UPS or unplug the printer from the power strip and plug it straight into a wall socket. The surges of electricity needed by a laser printer to maintain the fuser assembly warm should never be hooked into a UPS since the UPS could be harmed. If it doesn’t work, check to see if the printer’s parts are all properly seated.

6. Can’t find a driver for a particular operating system

Your current printers will require updated drivers to be loaded as new operating systems are released. Not every printer has an OS-compatible driver. It is best in these situations to check the printer documentation to learn which printers the drivers will simulate. Even though this emulation won’t enable the printer’s full capability, basic printing will still be possible. For instance, the majority of HP printers will print when the HP LaserJet II driver is installed, but certain features, such duplexing, will not function.

7. Printer is not printing from the expected paper tray

To fix this particular mistake, look twice. Check the printer first, then the printing computer. If the programme is configured to print to the incorrect paper tray, you can fix it there by selecting Printer Properties, then looking for the Tray Selection source. Verify that the paper sizes listed in the printer’s control panel correspond to those found in the paper trays.

8. Instead of just one sheet, the printer pulls all the paper from the manual feed tray.

It is probably time to change the pad that separates the paper because it is worn out. Without having to send the printer out for repair, you can order and install a new pad. The possibility of the paper being damp owing to humidity exists as well. Before inserting the paper into the printer, make sure it is “fanned” and properly stored.

9. A 79 mistake is visible on the printer.

An issue with the network print server that supports the printer may cause a 79 error. When troubleshooting a 79 error, check to see whether any pending tasks are there by opening the Printer folder from the Start menu on the Print server. A 79 error could also mean that a RAM module or MIO card, two printer add-on components, have failed. To identify which module might be at issue, every add-on should be taken off the printer before being added back one at a time.

• Having issues printing on envelopes

For laser printers, envelopes can lead to a variety of issues. Select envelopes that are around the same weight and thickness as 20-lb paper. Additionally, check to see if the glue on the envelope can resist the heat that the fuser emits in order to maintain the printing on the page. If you don’t, the printer will print the envelopes already sealed. Envelopes that are crumpled after printing may be too stiff for the paper path. Instead, let them leave through the printer’s back door, which you should open.

One of the most dependable brands of printers in the market is HP. However, they are susceptible to failure just like any other piece of IT machinery. Furthermore, it appears that the newer printers are less resilient to misuse than the earlier models were. Expect more troubleshooting calls regarding the issues I’ve just mentioned if you work with more recent HP printer models in a setting where paper is used frequently. No matter how old your HP printer is, this guide to typical printing issues will help you quickly identify and resolve the issue.