My printer appears in the Control Panel but not when I try to print a document.

[David5717]

I have a Dell computer using the version of Windows before Windows 10 . I have an HP DeskJet printer of 3700 series. Until Sunday I have been printing with no problem. Yesterday when I tried printing I found that the document print command has wiped off the printer (although all the other options are still there). When I checked the Control Panel, the printer appears but with minimal information when I click to open.

I have reset both the computer and the printer a number of times, as well as simultaneously but this has not helped.

Do I need to reload the driver, or is the problem likely due to something else and if so, can anyone share ideas?

Thanks

David Green

[zoey7886]

@David5717, Welcome to the HP Support Community!  

Thanks for reaching out about your query regarding HP DeskJet 3700 Series Printer Issues! 

We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.  

It sounds like you're experiencing a connectivity or driver-related issue with your HP DeskJet 3700 series printer. Here are some steps you can follow to troubleshoot and potentially resolve the problem:

Check Printer Connections:

• Ensure that all cables are securely connected. If using a USB connection, try a different USB port or a different cable.
• If connected via Wi-Fi, ensure that the printer is connected to the correct network.

Verify Printer Status:

• Go to the Control Panel on your computer and select "Devices and Printers."
• Check if your printer is set as the default printer and that its status is "Ready."

Reinstall or Update Printer Drivers:

• Visit the HP Support website and download the latest drivers for your specific printer model.
• Install the drivers and follow any on-screen instructions.

Remove and Re-add the Printer:

• In the "Devices and Printers" section of the Control Panel, right-click on your printer and select "Remove Device."
• Re-add the printer by selecting "Add a Printer" and follow the prompts.

Check for Windows Updates:

• Ensure your computer has the latest Windows updates installed, as updates can include important driver updates.

Run HP Print and Scan Doctor:

• Download and run the HP Print and Scan Doctor tool, which can automatically diagnose and resolve many issues with HP printers.

Restart the Printer Spooler Service:

• Go to "Services" on your computer, locate the "Print Spooler" service, right-click it, and select "Restart." 

Hope this helps! 

Take care, and have an amazing day!  

Did we resolve the issue? If yes, Please consider marking this post as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" to give us a helpful vote - your feedback keeps us going!  

Regards, 

[David5717]

Hi Zoey,

Thanks a lot for your clear explanation. I will take the steps you advise and if I still have any problems, I'll get back to you.

Sorry I did not respond sooner but I have been unwell.

Thanks again.

David

[David5717]

Hi Zoey,

First of all I erred and my Windows version is actually 10.

I tried taking the steps you mentioned and did not make any real progress. I tried downloading the driver again for the HP printer and I cannot seem to get to download, as I get a message that my printer is not under guarantee. Can I get the driver if I pay? Or do I have no chance to get the driver again?

I then went to the step where you advised me to go to the Control Panel and remove and then add the printer. I managed to remove it from the Control Panel but when I try to set up a new printer and type in the printer model, the computer tells me it already exists, even though it no longer appears on the Control Panel.

I was also guided to HP Smart but that does not seem to help.

It sounds like I have done something wrong, or the problem is a bit deeper. Do you have any suggestions?

Thanks and Regards,

David