How to Install Hewlett Packard Printers (5 Steps)

1. After you have removed all of the packaging from the printer, including tape and cardboard, find the power cord that came with your printer and insert it into the designated port on the printer. Plug the other end into a power outlet and press the power button to turn the printer on. If the printer does not turn on, make sure that both ends of the power cord are secured.
2. Insert paper trays and print cartridges. If your printer has separate paper trays, attach them into the designated slots. For inkjet HP printers, unwrap the ink cartridges that came with your printer and securely load them into the printer's cartridge carriage. Although the steps for inserting your inkjet cartridges will differ based on the model of your HP printer, all printers automatically expose the cartridge carriage when you press a button or lift a certain door. This will allow you to install the ink cartridges without manually dragging the cartridge carriage over. When you insert the ink cartridges, you will know that they are securely fastened if you hear a clicking sound. If your HP printer is a laser printer, the toner cartridge will likely already be installed and ready for use, although you may need to remove some securing tape.
3. Insert the USB cable into the printer only. Insert the type-B connector end (the smallest end) of the USB cable into the designated port on your printer. You should not plug the USB cable into the computer until the installation software prompts you to do so, as plugging the cable in too early may disrupt the software installation process.
4. Install the HP printer software. Insert into the computer the installation CD that came with your HP printer. Your computer should start the setup program automatically, but if it does not, double-click your CD drive and explore the contents of the CD. Double-click the setup file to start the installation process. Once the installation software begins, simply follow the on-screen instructions.
5. At the end of the software installation and setup process, the installation program will ask if you want to print a test page. Printing a test page will determine if the software installed properly and if you properly set up the printer's hardware, such as the ink cartridges and paper tray. Insert paper into the paper tray before printing a test page, otherwise you will receive a 'empty paper tray' error.