connecting a 2710e printer to my Mac just using a usb cable, and not using an app or wi fi.

[wrennie]

I would like to set up the above printer to use with my Mac computer, and the operating system is Ventura 13.7.6.  I only want to use it as a basic printer, and not use it with the Smart App, or use it on wi-fi.  I only want to print documents and emails, and when I added the printer in Settings, it was listed, but when I gave the command to print, only blank sheets came out of the printer!  Do I need to download certain software and or drivers?  I wonder if I can only use this printer with the App?

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @wrennie 

Welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for posting your query! We're here to help you get back up and running.

I understand how frustrating this must be—especially when you just want a simple USB connection without dealing with HP Smart or Wi-Fi. Let's go through the steps to set up your HP DeskJet 2710e with macOS Ventura 13.7.6 using only a USB cable.

 

Step-by-Step USB Setup for HP DeskJet 2710e on Mac

Check USB Connection

• Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to both the printer and your Mac.
• Try using a different USB port on your Mac if the printer isn’t detected.

Remove Existing Printer Setup

• Go to System Settings > Printers & Scanners.
• Select the HP DeskJet 2710e and click Remove Printer to clear any incorrect configurations.

Download HP Drivers for macOS Ventura

• Visit HP’s official support page for your printer here.
• Download and install the latest HP Easy Start or HP Printer Drivers for macOS Ventura.

Manually Add the Printer

• Open System Settings > Printers & Scanners.
• Click Add Printer and select your HP DeskJet 2710e from the list.
• Choose USB as the connection type.
• Select Use: HP DeskJet 2710e Series (or Generic PostScript Printer if HP drivers aren’t available).
• Click Add to finalize the setup.

Test Print with Basic Settings

• Open a document or email and select File > Print.
• Ensure the correct printer is selected.
• Click Print and check if the output is correct.

 

Troubleshooting Blank Pages Issue

• Check Ink Levels: If the printer is printing blank pages, the ink cartridges may be empty or clogged.
• Run a Print Head Cleaning: Go to System Settings > Printers & Scanners > HP DeskJet 2710e > Options & Supplies > Utility > Open Printer Utility, then select Clean Print Heads.
• Try a Different Driver: If blank pages persist, reinstall the printer using the Generic PostScript Printer driver instead of HP’s default driver.

 

Let me know if you need more details! I know how frustrating printer setup can be, but hopefully, this gets your DeskJet 2710e working over USB without needing HP Smart or Wi-Fi. 😊

If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution! ✅ It helps others and spreads support. 💙 Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks! 😊

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye