HP Printer firmware restart loop

[badprinter123]

I have an HP OfficeJet Pro 8138e printer that is currently stuck in a firmware update/restart loop.

The issue started after I tried to scan documents to my laptop. The printer prompted me to install HP scanning software so I could scan directly to my computer. I downloaded HP Smart and HP Scan Assistant / HP scanning software on my laptop. After installing the software, I tried to adjust the printer/scanner settings because it was not printing or scanning the way I wanted.

Not long after that, the printer started attempting to download a firmware update. The update fails every time, then the printer restarts itself and automatically tries to download the firmware again. It is now stuck repeating this cycle.

Current symptoms:

• Printer attempts to download firmware.
• Firmware update fails.
• Printer restarts by itself.
• After restarting, it immediately tries to download the firmware again.
• The touchscreen/menu becomes unresponsive or freezes.
• I cannot reliably navigate the printer settings because it restarts before I can make changes.
• The issue continues even after basic restart/power-cycle attempts.

Troubleshooting steps already attempted:

• Downloaded and used HP Smart.
• Downloaded HP Scan Assistant / HP scanning software.
• Tried to stop or disable automatic firmware updates.
• Downloaded and tried a universal driver/update installer.
• Attempted basic restart and power-cycle troubleshooting.
• Tried navigating the printer menus, but the printer freezes or restarts before changes can be completed.

I would like the printer checked for a failed firmware update, corrupted firmware, network/update loop issue, driver/software conflict, or any related software/firmware problem. If possible, please attempt firmware recovery, factory reset, or reinstallation of the correct firmware.

[greenturtle]

Hi,

Thanks for using the HP Support Community.

Please try to update firmware following the steps listed:

1. Reset wireless

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H9ryGwiH2bg

2. Connect printer to the network:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oiIxxWgTKcI

3. Try updating Firmware again:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HDzj0LkNIPY

For more resources on the printer:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUV0sXfF6zPj2L8vKWfVMlHOO8lHinzd_

Hope that helps!