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- need to locate printer/scanner icon to add back to my deskto...

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08-29-2024 12:01 AM
computer crashed. got it fixed. printer works I need to reinstall the scanner icon on my desk top
I have gone to to settings, devices, printers, scanners. I do not see an icon to click on
My choice is "HP Laser Jet ..........."
I have windows 10 home (Yes i know i should update)
I'm wanting to create a shortcut , to put on my desk top, to use my scanner. There are no buttons or switches on the front of the printer (FAX) to select to be able to use the scan functions
08-31-2024 06:50 AM
Hi @gemklm,
Welcome to the HP Support Community.
I'd be glad to help you!
To reinstall the scanner icon on your desktop for easy access, you typically need to ensure that the scanning software or app is properly installed and then create a shortcut for it. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you with this:
1. Ensure HP Software is Installed
Check HP Software Installation:
- Make sure you have the latest HP scanning software installed. This is often the HP Smart app or a full-featured driver package that includes scanning capabilities.
Download and Install:
- Go to HP Support and download the latest HP Smart app or full-featured driver for your printer model.
- Install the software, following the on-screen instructions.
2. Create a Desktop Shortcut for the Scanner
For HP Smart App
Open HP Smart App:
- If the HP Smart app is already installed, open it from your Start menu.
Pin to Taskbar or Start Menu:
- Right-click on the HP Smart app icon in the taskbar (if open) or Start menu.
- Select Pin to Taskbar or Pin to Start to create a quick access point.
Create a Desktop Shortcut:
- Navigate to where the HP Smart app is installed (usually in C:\Program Files\ or C:\Program Files (x86)\).
- Find the executable file for the HP Smart app (HPSmart.exe).
- Right-click on the executable file and select Create shortcut.
- Drag the newly created shortcut to your desktop.
For HP Scanner Software
Open Start Menu:
- Click on the Start button and search for the HP scanner software or driver that includes the scanning utility.
Locate the Application:
- Find the application in the search results. It might be named something like "HP Scan and Capture" or similar.
Create a Desktop Shortcut:
- Right-click on the application name and select Open file location.
- In the file location folder, right-click the application file and choose Create shortcut.
- Drag the shortcut to your desktop.
Please find the remaining steps in the next post.
Hope this helps! Keep me posted for further assistance
Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.
Nal_NR-Moderator
I am an HP Employee
08-31-2024 06:52 AM
Hi @gemklm,
Please find the remaining steps below.
3. Access Scanner Settings
- Check Scanner Settings:
- Go to Settings > Devices > Printers & Scanners.
- Select your HP printer and click on Manage.
- Click Scan to access scanning settings directly from the settings page.
4. Troubleshoot Missing Scanner Icon
Reinstall HP Software:
- If you still cannot find the scanner icon or software, uninstall and reinstall the HP software from your computer.
- Restart your computer after reinstallation.
Check for Updates:
- Ensure Windows and the HP software are fully updated. Sometimes missing icons or functionalities can be resolved through updates.
5. Use Built-in Windows Scanning Tool
- Use Windows Scan App:
- Open the Microsoft Store and search for Windows Scan.
- Download and install the app.
- Open Windows Scan and follow the instructions to scan documents or photos.
By following these steps, you should be able to reinstall and create a desktop shortcut for your scanner application, making it easier to access.
Let me know if you need further assistance!
Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.
Nal_NR-Moderator
I am an HP Employee