UNABLE TO COMMUNICATE WITH PRINTER

[Marlene62]

I've just replaced a black printer cartridge on my HP Deskjet 2130 printer and the message I get is unable to communicate with printer. I've tried pulling out all the printer plugs, waiting a few minutes and then replacing, I've checked paper (fine), I've checked printer cartridge (correct), I've switched off my router and waited and then switched on again and still no printing. Please help

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @Marlene62 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

I’m really sorry this communication issue is still blocking your HP DeskJet 2130, especially after all the careful steps you’ve already taken. You’ve done a great job checking the basics—let’s now walk through a few deeper actions to help restore the connection and get your printer responding again.

Step-by-step actions to resolve “Unable to communicate with printer” on HP DeskJet 2130

 

1. Confirm connection type

The DeskJet 2130 series connects via USB only—it does not support wireless printing. If you’ve restarted your router, that won’t affect this model’s communication.

• Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to both the printer and your computer.
• Try a different USB port on your PC.
• If possible, test with a different USB cable.

 

2. Check Windows device recognition

1. Press Win + X > Device Manager.
2. Expand Printers or Universal Serial Bus controllers.
3. Look for any entries with a yellow triangle or “Unknown Device.”
   • If found, right-click and select Uninstall device, then restart your PC.

 

3. Reinstall the full driver package

• Download and install the full feature software for your printer from this page:
  HP DeskJet 2130 Driver – HP Support

This package includes the print driver, scan driver, and connection software.

 

4. Run the Diagnose & Fix tool

• This tool checks for USB communication faults and driver conflicts.
• Download it here:
  Diagnose & Fix – HP Support

 

5. Power reset the printer

1. Turn off the printer and unplug the power cord from both the printer and wall.
2. Wait 60 seconds.
3. Plug it back in and turn it on.
4. Reconnect the USB cable after the printer is fully powered up.

Let me know how the printer responds after these steps. If the issue persists, we can explore USB controller resets or alternate driver modes next. 

You’re doing everything right by staying persistent and methodical.

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