LaserJet M4555 MFP Firmware Upgrade Assistance

[Eshman]

So, I'm attempting to upgrade the firmware on an HP LJ M4555 MFP. It's warranty actually expired circa 2013 but it still functions fine for my employer's needs. Their issue is that it intermittently refuses to do anything: dial out, connect to network, or otherwise so it leads me to believe that its firmware simply needs updating (since it's from 06/04/2011). The desktop I use for connecting/troubleshooting is running Win10 64-bit and the HP app has been extremely helpful in retrieving info/diagnosing (plus a LOT faster since it's not html-based). I've had no issues downloading the most-recent zip-package of the firmware version but I can only get the bdl file--which the printer refuses to load from its management screen (app or html-version). So, I'd simply like to know how to get it to load the firmware as there doesn't seem to be any usb access on the printer and I have actually searched all over the entire thing as I'm guessing we have the older version of it before the front flip-panel usb accessory was factory-standard.

[Repairatrooper · Accepted solution]

There is a USB port on the front side of the control panel. (red circle in photo below)It will have a cover over it. Refer to the upgrade instructions included in the attached firmware readme file. I recommend that if the firmware is grossly out of date (more than 2 years) that you use the pre-boot method described in the document to upgrade the firmware.

[Eshman]

I searched all around the printer and just didn't see that little covered-up port. I actually thought that was part of the touchscreen assembly! I've worked on Ricohs, Brothers, and other HPs that didn't have such oddly placed ports before--oh well, live & learn. Hopefully this saves others some troubleshooting time in the future though 😄

[Repairatrooper]

The port is mostly designed to allow easy access if you are printing a file from a usb stick. All current enterprise level HP's have a port somewhere on the control panel.