Trying to add HP Deskjet 9800 with Mac OS 15.1.1 (24B91) Not wifi enabled printer can't use HP Smart

[laurinovakphoto]

I recently acquired an HP Desk 9800 and cannot get it to allow me to add the printer because HP Smart wants it connected via wifi or the ether cable. The ether connection is not in the same room as the printer.

I've added the printer generically but then I can't use functions or it's not working properly.

I'd like to be able to run the print head cleaning option as it's been sitting for 3 years. I have new ink but it's not printing on the paper - it pulls the paper but nothing prints.

Can I set this up somehow with the USB connection? 

Thanks.

[A_Gayathri · Accepted solution]

Hi @laurinovakphoto,

Welcome to The HP Support Community.  

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

I understand you are trying to set up your HP Deskjet 9800 with your Mac running macOS 15.1.1 (24B91) using a USB connection, bypassing HP Smart. Since this is an older printer, HP Smart is not required, and you’ll need to install it manually. Here’s how:

Step 1: Connect the Printer via USB

1. Use a USB-A to USB-B cable (square connector on the printer, rectangular on the Mac side).
2. Plug it into your Mac, then turn on the printer.

Step 2: Manually Add the Printer on macOS

1. Go to System Settings > Printers & Scanners.
2. Click the "+" (Add Printer) button.
3. Select your HP Deskjet 9800 from the list (it should show under USB).
4. Under the "Use" section, choose "HP Deskjet 9800" if available.
   • If it's not listed, select "Generic PostScript Printer" or "HP PCL" (not ideal, but functional).
5. Click Add.

Step 3: Install HP Drivers Software and Drivers for HP Deskjet 9800 Printer series

If the printer doesn’t work properly:

1. Check HP's website for macOS drivers:
   • HP no longer officially supports this printer, but you can try downloading the HP Printer Drivers for macOS 
2. Try using Gutenprint (Open-source drivers)
   • Download from: Gutenprint

Step 4: Run a Printhead Cleaning

Since the printer has been sitting for 3 years, the printheads may be clogged.

• If printer utilities are unavailable, try printing a test page:
  • Hold the Power button + Resume (or Cancel) button for about 5 seconds.
  • The printer should print a test page with ink patterns.
• If no ink appears, soak the printhead in warm distilled water for 10-15 minutes, then dry thoroughly before reinserting.

Alternative: Use a Windows PC for Cleaning

If macOS doesn't offer printhead cleaning:

• Connect the printer to a Windows PC with HP drivers installed.
• Use HP Toolbox or Printer Utility to run a printhead cleaning.

Let me know if you need further guidance!

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day.

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