I can print in color from one computer but not from another

[BW_Barefoot]

I have often been able to print out WordPad files from my HP laptop.  However, Microsoft removed the program when my OS updated.  Fortunately, I found another computer, an ASUS, which is still running on an earlier version of Windows 11 and for which WordPad was installed.  Using the Control Panel and a home wireless connection, I was able to connect my printer (HP OfficeJet 4650) to the ASUS computer.

Then, I placed certain WP files on USB and opened up the WordPad program for printing.  I have been able to print out, but unfortunately some color logos were downgraded to grayscale.  In addition, if I want to print on both sides, I must flip over the page manually, which I don't have to do when I use the HP laptop.

Why are the options not the same, and how can I solve this issue?

[Raj_05]

Hi @BW_Barefoot,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

The differences in printing options and behavior between your HP laptop and ASUS computer are likely due to differences in printer driver configurations, application settings, and operating system versions. Here's how you can resolve the issues.

Grayscale Printing on ASUS Computer

The color printing issue occurs because the default settings for the HP OfficeJet 4650 on your ASUS computer might be set to grayscale or black-and-white.

Solution:

Check Printer Settings:

• On the ASUS computer, open the Control Panel → Devices and Printers.
• Right-click on the HP OfficeJet 4650 printer and select Printing Preferences.
• Ensure that the Color option is selected instead of Black & White or Grayscale.

Check Application Print Settings:

• In WordPad (or any other application), click File → Print → Printer Properties.
• Confirm that the color setting is enabled for the specific print job.

Update Printer Drivers:

• Download and install the latest HP OfficeJet 4650 drivers from the HP Support website.
• Ensure that the drivers are compatible with the ASUS computer's OS version.

Manual Duplex Printing

The duplex printing issue likely arises because the HP OfficeJet 4650 driver on the ASUS computer is set to manual duplex (flip pages manually), whereas the driver on the HP laptop is configured for automatic duplex.

Solution:

Enable Automatic Duplex Printing:

• On the ASUS computer, go to Control Panel → Devices and Printers.
• Right-click on the HP OfficeJet 4650 and select Printer Properties.
• Navigate to the Device Settings tab.
• Ensure that Duplex Unit (for 2-Sided Printing) is enabled. If not, enable it and click OK.

Check Application Duplex Settings:

• When printing a document, click File → Print → Printer Properties.
• Ensure that the Print on Both Sides (Duplex Printing) option is selected.

[Raj_05 · Accepted solution]

Align Printer Configurations Across Both Computers

To ensure consistent printing options on both computers, do the following:

• Install the same driver version for the HP OfficeJet 4650 on both computers.
• Configure identical settings in the Printing Preferences and Printer Properties for both devices.
• If you're using the HP Smart app, ensure it’s installed and updated on both computers for better control over printer features.

WordPad Alternative

Since WordPad is deprecated, consider using:

• Notepad++: A lightweight text editor with more features than WordPad.
• Microsoft Word or Free Office Software: Such as LibreOffice Writer.

By aligning driver settings and ensuring the latest software is installed, you should be able to resolve the discrepancies between the two computers

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!

Alden4

HP Support