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‎07-09-2025 01:05 PM

HP Recommended
Product: Color LaserJet 4650n
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 11

This old color printer worked for years with a generic PCL6 driver. About 2 months ago it stopped working and now I can't get my Win 11 box to see it with either Ethernet or USB. I uninstalled the PCL6 driver and reinstalled several versions of it. Nothing works. When I try to send a test page I get 5 smiley face b&w emojis, that's it.

1 REPLY 1

‎11-23-2025 09:46 AM

HP Recommended

Welcome to HP Support Community, @RorickAnthony 

 

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

 

1. Uninstall All Previous Printer Drivers

Open Control Panel > Programs and Features.

Uninstall all versions of HP 4650n or related printer drivers.

Restart your PC once all drivers are removed.

 

2. Remove Printer from Devices

Open Devices and Printers.

Right-click the HP Color LaserJet 4650n and choose Remove Device.

Restart your PC again.

 

3. Update the Printer Firmware

Visit the HP Support Website for the 4650n.

Check for available firmware updates.

If a firmware update exists, follow the on-screen instructions to install it.
(Note: This model is old, so firmware may not be available.)

 

4. Install the Latest Printer Driver

Go to the HP Support Page for the HP Color LaserJet 4650n.

Download the latest PCL6 driver (Windows 11 compatible, or Windows 10 if Win11-specific is unavailable).

Run the installer and follow the installation steps carefully.

 

5. Verify Connection Type
USB Connection

Ensure the USB cable is firmly connected to both the printer and the PC.

Try a different USB port.

Avoid using USB hubs.

Ethernet Connection

Make sure the printer is properly connected to the network.

Confirm that the printer has a valid IP address (print a configuration page from the printer panel).

 

6. Run Windows Printer Troubleshooter

Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.

Select Printer and click Run.

Allow Windows to detect and fix common issues.

 

7. Test the Printer

Open Printer Properties and try printing a Test Page.

Confirm whether the issue is resolved.

 

I hope this helps.

 

Take care and have a good day.

I am an HP Employee. Although I am speaking for myself and not for HP.
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