Windows won't recognize USB connection for LaserJet M1212nf MFP

[MotownEnzo]

Windows will not find my USB printer that is connected.  I had this printer installed before.   For some reason it won't print and then I began the troubleshooting and re-started the spool service, then I removed the device and tried to reinstall it. I suspect something is still in Hkey or similar preventing it from being found. Please help.  I searched everywhere.  I tried to input my serial number but it wont' let me.  It is 

Product CE841A Serial [personal info removed]

[Sneha_01]

HI @MotownEnzo,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

To troubleshoot and resolve the issue where Windows is not recognizing your HP LaserJet M1212nf MFP via USB, you can follow these steps:

Step 1: Check Physical Connections

1. Verify USB Cable:
   • Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to both the printer and the computer.
   • Try using a different USB port on your computer.
   • If possible, use a different USB cable to rule out a faulty cable.

Step 2: Restart Printer and Computer

1. Power Cycle:
   • Turn off the printer and the computer.
   • Unplug the USB cable from both ends.
   • Restart the computer.
   • Plug the USB cable back into the computer and printer.
   • Turn the printer back on.

Step 3: Check Device Manager

Open Device Manager:

• Press Windows + X and select "Device Manager."

Look for Printer:

• Expand the "Printers" or "Universal Serial Bus controllers" section.
• Look for the HP LaserJet M1212nf MFP or any device with a yellow triangle or "Unknown Device."

Update Driver:

• Right-click on the device and select "Update driver."
• Choose "Search automatically for updated driver software."

Step 4: Remove Previous Installations

Uninstall Printer:

• Open "Settings" > "Devices" > "Printers & scanners."
• Select your printer and click "Remove device."

Delete Driver:

• Open "Device Manager" again.
• Right-click on the printer (or unknown device) and select "Uninstall device."
• Check the box for "Delete the driver software for this device" if available.

Step 5: Clean Printer Entries in Registry (Advanced)

Warning: Editing the registry can cause serious issues if not done correctly. It's recommended to back up your registry before making any changes.

Open Registry Editor:

• Press Windows + R, type regedit, and press Enter.

Navigate to Printer Entries:

• Go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Print\Printers and delete any entries related to the HP LaserJet M1212nf MFP.

Remove USB Printer Entries:

• Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Enum\USB and look for any entries related to your printer.
• Delete the relevant entries.

Step 6: Download and Install Latest Drivers

Download Drivers:

• Visit the HP support website and search for the latest drivers for the HP LaserJet M1212nf MFP.
• Download the appropriate driver package for your operating system.

Install Drivers:

Step 7: Run HP Print and Scan Doctor

Download HP Print and Scan Doctor:

• Download the HP Print and Scan Doctor tool from the HP website.

Run the Tool:

• Follow the instructions to diagnose and fix any issues with your printer.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.

Rachel571

HP Support