How to get Searchable pdfs on 9125e (OCR capability)

[Mahimike1]

 I had the searchable pdf feature on my old 9015 when scanning a document.  When the 9015 failed, I replaced it with a 9025 and had the same scan to a searchable pdf feature when using HP Smart .  About a month ago, I lost the option to scan/create a searchable document.  Opened a ticket & support removed all old HP apps and installed the full blown app w/all drivers including the scan app as well as HP Smart.  Neither have OCR capability.  The rep told me I could get in touch with paid support services to see what options are available and I said no thanks, I would rather return my unit.  

I  used to have a searchable pdf option when using HP Smart.   2 techs have told me searchable pdf options have been eliminated.  What is going on?  Who would sell a printer/scanner without OCR capability?

[Dragon-Fur]

@Mahimike1 

Welcome to the HP English Community --

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@Mahimike1 wrote:

Product: HP OfficeJet Pro 9125e All-in-One Printer

Operating System: Microsoft Windows 10 (64-bit)

 I had the searchable pdf feature on my old 9015 when scanning a document. 

When the 9015 failed, I replaced it with a 9025 and had the same scan to a searchable pdf feature when using HP Smart . 

About a month ago, I lost the option to scan/create a searchable document. 

Opened a ticket & support removed all old HP apps and installed the full blown app w/all drivers including the scan app as well as HP Smart. 

Neither have OCR capability.

The rep told me I could get in touch with paid support services to see what options are available and I said no thanks, I would rather return my unit.  

I  used to have a searchable pdf option when using HP Smart.   What is going on?  Who would sell a printer/scanner without OCR capability?

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OCR is a software / application feature - OCR is not hardware based.

HP has not sold you a printer incapable of OCR --

You certainly might be in a situation where the feature is not available to you for some reason.

In my opinion,

You do not need paid support -

Not sure whether you are asking about the OfficeJet Pro 9025 or the OfficeJet Pro 9125e --

These are very different printers in some key areas.

The answer depends very much on the exact printer model.

That you mention having talked to HP Support and that you are considering returning the printer seems to hint that you are referring to a new OfficeJet Pro 9125e.

The following is applicable to HP OfficeJet Pro 9125e All-in-One Printer

Next,

In so much that I am aware,

Save  > Searchable PDF option should be available after the printer has been added to HP+ service.

Sample - HP Smart - Windows - Scan Document - Save options

Steps 5

HP_Smart_Win_Scan_Document_Save_8

Sample - HP Smart - Shortcut - Save to Cloud Storage - save options

HP_Smart_Shortcuts_Cloud_Save_PDF_5

Just so - If the printer has been added to HP+ the Save as Searchable PDF feature should not disappear from HP Smart.

True - HP Scan - part of the Full Feature Software - does not include the OCR feature.

Full Driver Printer Software - Webpage includes the download package for installing the software

HP OfficeJet Pro 9120 series EasyStart Printer Setup Software - Offline Use Only 

True - Universal Scan Software is Supported on this printer (9125e) --

The HP Universal Scan software does not include OCR.

HP Universal Scan - Full Feature Software and Driver 

What about now?

Software and apps all removed / reloaded -

Even if HP+ is enabled - removing the app might interrupt the setup in some way.

NOTE:  I'm not aware this is actually the case - this is just a supposition based on your description of events --

If you did not Reset the HP Smart application before you uninstalled the app, then it's possible that something is left over in the app account and is tangled.

True - The procedure to Reset HP Smart app does remove the app's account data.  Regardless of whether you follow the Reset with the Uninstall / Reinstall of the app, the printer must be added back into HP Smart.

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Message Content References

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ish_5098782-5098911-16

HP+ printer setup (HP Smart app)

------------------------------------------

Printer and HP+ service

 Contact HP+ Support

If needful, change your Country / Region

Note that HP+ assistance is only available for registered HP+ printers.

Reminder

An HP Instant Ink subscription is not required as part of the HP+ setup or HP+ service.

------------------------------------------

Windows - Reset HP Smart Application

Next,

Reset the HP Smart application - This action removes the app data.

How to Reset the App

Windows 10 -

Settings > Apps > Apps and Features

OR

Windows 11 - 

Settings > Apps > Installed Apps

Next,

Search / Find HP Smart in the apps list

Open Advanced options > Reset the app

Restart the computer and log in

Open HP Smart > Sign in > Add Printer(s)

What if?

If the app Reset does not work by itself,

Next,

Uninstall the HP Smart App from Settings > Apps > Apps and Features / Installed Apps

Restart the computer and log in

“Get” a new copy of the HP Smart application from the Microsoft Store

Open HP Smart > Sign in > Add Printer(s)

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References / Resources

HP Device Home Page - References and Resources

Learn about your Device - Solve Problems

When the website support page opens, Select (as available) a Category > Topic > Subtopic

NOTE: Content depends on device type and Operating System

Categories: Alerts, Warranty Check, Security & Viruses, Software and Drivers, Setup & User Guides, Product Specifications, Accounts and Registration, Warranty & Repair

Open

 Product Home

 Enter the device type and model name of your HP product

OR

 Select a saved product from HP Account Dashboard

OR

HP OfficeJet Pro 9125e All-in-One Printer

Thank you for participating in the HP Community --

People who own, use, and support HP devices.

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Question / Concern Answered, Click my Post "Accept as Solution"

[Mahimike1]

My mistake- I have a 9125e.  Good catch.  I am aware that the OCR is a software issue, but the HP hardware apparently requires the HP apps and those apps are the issue.  I believe I bought a HW/SW package since they are linked.  I have been using HP for 20 years.   I did have the OCR functionality but it disappeared a month or so ago.  2 different support techs told me today that the OCR functionality is no longer available.   The HP Scan app used to have the OCR functionality.  I used it so much on my 9015 that it was a permanent member of my menu bar.   I had already tried calling the HP+ phone line and was told that was only for laser printers and business customers and they sent me to tech #2 who also told me OCR functionality (searchable pdfs) no longer existed.    I am a loss of where to go from here.  The thought of tossing this device and getting another brand while I am still under warranty makes me sick.

[Mahimike1]

Good catch on the MN: I have a 9125e.  I am aware that OCR is SW based.  I have always purchased my HP printers for the last 20 yrs understanding I was buying a HW/SW solution since one cannot work w/o the other.  I was told by support tech # 1 that the scan to a searchable pdf option was eliminated and to ask for paid support help per earlier.  I did try to call HP+  # listed below and was told that was for business customers and laser printers only.  She transferred me to tech support #2 who confirmed that the searchable pdf option is no longer available.  I am a little lost where to go now.  The thought of trashing this printer that is still under warranty for another brand makes me sick. 

[Dragon-Fur]

@Mahimike1 

Well, now I'm confused, too.

I've seen rumors about HP+ being discontinued -- I can't imagine it has disappeared when all the website information is still active and offering the service.

I have an OfficeJet Pro 9135e (big brother your your printer - essentially the same thing for this purpose.

Once I accepted and enabled the HP+ service contract all the extra features automatically connected.

I think I might have enabled the service using the HP Smart setup options.

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Updated content

Reminder

You do NOT have to enroll in Instant Ink to activate HP+

Not.

If you don't want Instant Ink just say No as many times as it takes for the offer to subside.

========================================================

HP Document

HP+ printer setup (HP Smart app)

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123.hp.com - Printer setup from the HP® Official site

https://123.hp.com/

Pay attention to the address.

Just one wrong or missing dot or letter will land you in a scam site - there are hundreds of these.

Be careful.

=================================================

The HP+ website FAQ information seems different - I don't like it but I cannot explain it.

I will see if I can find out something useful and post back when / if I do so.

Sure - if you need to, return the printer.

I cannot imagine this is a dead-end, but it might be.

I cannot explain why you cannot find and enable the HP+ service package.

============================================

Reminder - assuming you can find HP+,

Know this:

The service is free.

It does come with obligations on your side:

 User Guide - HP OfficeJet Pro 9120e Series

Page 7

Requirements for HP+ printers

This topic describes the requirements for HP+ printers.

Keep the printer connected to the Internet

HP+ printers are cloud-connected devices that must remain connected to the Internet in order to function. The
Internet connection enables the printer to deliver HP+ specific app features and firmware updates.

During setup, you must connect the printer to the Internet using a supported network connection. After setup,
you can print using a USB cable connection, if desired, but the printer must still be connected to the Internet.

Use Original HP cartridges

Original HP cartridges are cartridges manufactured and sold by HP in official HP packaging. If non-Original HP
supplies or refilled cartridges are installed, HP+ printers will not operate as expected.

Have an HP account

Create or sign into an HP account to manage your printer.

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[Mahimike1]

Your statement " I cannot explain why you cannot find and enable the HP+ service package."   made me think I was missing it somewhere.  I just kept poking around, clicking every button to see what I could see and I eventually got to My Account online thru the HP Smart app.  On the Account Dashboard, it says I am an HP+ member.  I think tech #1 set that up while he was reinstalling everything.  And guess what, I went to the magic wand and now see all three options as per your picture.  Previously, I was able to select the Auto Enhancements, but the Auto Heal was not available.  All I could see previously was the Auto Enhancements and the Auto Orientation.  Now I can see all 3.  I immediately went back and scanned a doc and now have all the old options including OCR/searchable pdf.  I am wondering if 1) the access to HP+ just kicked in or 2) the fact that I logged into my account thru the HP Smart made a difference (even though I was online in another window).  OK, looks like that is solved (????) for now.  I will report back as I see issues.  Good to know you guys are out here so I am not relying on HP staff alone. 

[Dragon-Fur · Accepted solution]

@Mahimike1 

That makes more sense.

Glitches are allowed (not liked) if they clear.

I did find the setup guide for HP+ and updated my previous post with the link.

Reprint:  HP+ printer setup (HP Smart app)

I never did find anything useful to get us in contact with HP+ support.

Restricting HP+ support to business customers makes little sense to me (personally) -

Meh. I've sent an internal message to perhaps get some clarity on support options -- not holding breath.

Smiling.

Good that it's working.

Sure - I call it solved.

The features would never work unless you are HP+ activated and sanctioned.

The 9125e is a nice printer - I'm glad you get to keep it.

Smiling.

Thank you for participating in the HP Community --

People who own, use, and support HP devices.

Click Yes to say Thank You

Question / Concern Answered, Click my Post "Accept as Solution"

[tiresias6]

I have a simlar problem. I have an HP Envy Inspire 7900e printer/scanner.

I needed to scan a document to a searchable PDF, so I was pleased to find instructions on the net on how to select this in the Windows HP Scan app - except that the options were not there on my PC. Eventually I found a post that mentioned that some options are not available unless you are logged into your HP account. So I logged in, and sure enough the option to scan to searchable PDF suddenly appeared.  So I used that to scan the document - it proceeded OK with no error messages so I assumed all was fine. However the resulting PDF contained no searchable text. So I tried the Extract Text option and scanned a couple of pages, but it failed with a "No text could be found" message.

I then found a message from last year in these forums that suggested installing the "HP Full feature software" and with a link to an HP page to download it. However on that page the software seems to have been updated in 2022 with a description under "Fixes" that says "Repackaged without Optical Character Recognition (OCR) Functionality".

I have spent so much time trying to do what should have been a simple procedure, only find that HP seem to have totally removed all OCR functionality from their old and new software.

In addition, the document I want to scan is double-sided, and I found that there should be a double-side scan option where you scan the odd pages then the even pages and the software interleaves them. But it seems that that option has been removed from the HP Scan software aswell.

Frankly I'm fuming.

When I bought it, it was quite a struggle to get the printer set up wirelessly, and the added hassle of having to create an online account just to do the occasional bit of printing had made me wonder whether I had made the wrong choice with HP.

Now that they seem to be removing important functions from their software, I doubt whether I will ever buy HP again.

[Dragon-Fur]

@tiresias6 

Unfortunately, none of what you did was ever going to make a difference in the results.

Printer Model Series

HP ENVY Inspire 7900e series  

True - This new "e" printer does not include native OCR --

True, too:  The printer is not a candidate for Smart Advance as one of the Non-e printers.

Unlike the OfficeJet Pro 91xx series, this printer does not support automatic 2-sided scan.

Video

HP Envy Inspire 7955e All In One printer: Scan a 2 sided document with HP Smart app

Select Source (glass / ADF) > Minute 1:18 of 4:50

(Manual Reorder)

HP Scan - part of the full driver printer software - provides a "reorder page" feature.

Page Sides = "2 - sided (Manual)"

9025_HP_Scan_Menu_PDF_More_Destination_9

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This printer series -- like the printer in the solution for this thread - includes Searchable PDF after the HP+ service pack contract has been accepted and enabled.

True - you have choices -- we do not judge which products you decide to use, be they HP or another brand.

If you wish, choose to purchase, subscribe, or obtain OCR software for your use.

Example - HP Smart - Scan - Document - Save

HP_Smart_Win_Scan_Document_Save_8

Example - HP Smart - Shortcuts - Save to Cloud Storage - Save type options

HP_Smart_Shortcuts_Cloud_Save_PDF_5

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Message Content References

HP+ includes several extra features, including Print Anywhere and scanning and saving PDF in "Searchable PDF" format.

Be Aware ---

HP+ comes with requirements for the consumer (you).

 User Guide - HP ENVY Inspire 7200e series - HP ENVY Inspire 7900e series

Page 8

Requirements for HP+ printers

This topic describes the requirements for HP+ printers.

Keep the printer connected to the Internet

HP+ printers are cloud-connected devices that must remain connected to the Internet in order to function. The
Internet connection enables the printer to deliver HP+ specific app features and firmware updates.

During setup, you must connect the printer to the Internet using a supported network connection. After setup,
you can print using a USB cable connection, if desired, but the printer must still be connected to the Internet.

Use Original HP cartridges

Original HP cartridges are cartridges manufactured and sold by HP in official HP packaging. If non-Original HP
supplies or refilled cartridges are installed, HP+ printers will not operate as expected.

Have an HP account

Create or sign into an HP account to manage your printer.

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HP+ > Benefits, Requirements, Your Responsibilities

READ about HP+

 HP+ Printing – Website / Information / FAQ

Scroll down on page to “Top Questions”

Set up / enable HP+

 HP+ printer setup help

Reminder

An HP Instant Ink subscription is not required as part of the HP+ setup or HP+ service.

====  ====  ====  ====  ====  ====

“Print Anywhere” Supported on Select HP+ Printers with HP+ enabled

  HP Printers - Print Anywhere with the HP Smart App

And

Watch Video >  How to use the Print Anywhere feature in the HP Smart App | HP Support

NOTE:  If a print job is blocked for more than 5 minutes, the HP Smart app cancels the job automatically.

FAQ > Section:  How do I disable or enable Print Anywhere or Private Pickup?

FAQ > Section: Which non-HP+ printers are eligible for HP Smart Advance?

Important Reference:  About HP Smart Advance for HP printers

HP Smart Advance is a productivity tool in the HP Smart app that offers advanced scanning and other document processing features. HP Smart Advance is available on eligible HP printers.

AND

HP printers - Using advanced scanning features (HP Smart app)

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References / Resources

HP Printer Home Page - References and Resources

Learn about your Printer - Solve Problems

“Things that are your printer”

When the website support page opens, Select (as available) a Category > Topic > Subtopic

NOTE: Content depends on device type and Operating System

Categories: Warranty Check, Alerts, Troubleshooting, Ink & Paper, HP Software & Drivers / Firmware Updates, Setup & User Guides, Product Specifications, Account & Registration, Warranty & Repair

Open 

 Product Home - Printers

 Enter the device type and model name of your HP product

OR

 Select a saved product from HP Account Dashboard

OR

HP ENVY Inspire 7900e series  

Thank you for participating in the HP Community --

People who own, use, and support HP devices.

[tiresias6]

Thanks for the speedy reply.

I'm still a bit confused. I think I must have HP+ because I have an HP account and had the free ink period (although I cancelled it after the free period).

As I understand it the OCR is probably performed within the HP Scan software after the scans have been captured, so the OCR is all done on the PC. If so, then it shouldn't matter what model the printer/scanner is because it is just capturing the bitmap scans.

Signing into my account reveals the Scan to PDF and Text Extract buttons. So have no reason to believe that it wouldn't do OCR.

> Unfortunately, none of what you did was ever going to make a difference in the results

So it seems I can't use HP Scan software to do OCR (even though it does display the Searchable PDF and Text Extract buttons on my PC)?

This is really confusing. 😞