HPOfficeJet Pro 6978 won't copy from glass

[bobc36]

OfficeJet copy or scan function from the printer always goes to the paper feeder not the glass.   I can scan on the glass, by selection using the HP smart app to scan.    I can put a document in the feeder and it will copy.  I've uninstalled and re-installed and updated the driver.  This is something that changed in the last couple of weeks.

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @bobc36 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

Thanks for sharing the details—and I truly understand how frustrating it is when the printer insists on using the feeder instead of the glass, especially when you’ve already reinstalled and updated everything. 

You’ve done a great job narrowing it down, and we’ll focus on restoring that smooth copy-from-glass experience.

 

What’s likely happening

The printer’s copy function may be defaulting to the Automatic Document Feeder (ADF) because:

• It detects paper in the feeder even when there isn’t any
• The copy settings are locked to ADF
• A recent firmware or app update may have changed the default behavior

 

Let’s walk through a few steps to reset and redirect the copy source

Check for paper detection in the ADF

• Open the ADF cover and inspect the rollers and sensors.
• Clean gently with a dry lint-free cloth.
• Even a small piece of paper or dust can trick the printer into thinking the feeder is active.

Use the printer’s control panel to select the glass manually

• Tap Copy on the printer’s touchscreen.
• Select Document Type or Settings (depending on firmware version).
• Choose Scan from Glass or Flatbed instead of Automatic or ADF.
• Confirm and start the copy.

Disable ADF preference if available

• Go to Settings > Copy Preferences > Input Source.
• Set it to Flatbed or Manual Selection.

Update firmware via HP App

• Open the HP App for Windows
• Select your printer > Settings > Printer Updates
• Install any available updates and restart the printer.

Reset copy settings

• On the printer, go to Settings > Copy Settings > Restore Defaults.
• This can clear any lingering preferences that force ADF usage.

Try a copy with the feeder empty and lid closed

• Place a document on the glass.
• Ensure the ADF is completely empty and the lid is closed firmly.
• Tap Copy and observe whether it defaults to the glass.

If the issue persists, let me know exactly what options appear on the touchscreen when you tap Copy—we can tailor the next steps based on that. 

You're doing everything right, and we’ll get that glass copy function working again.

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Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye