IP address for LaserJet 4100N has changed resulting in "Unable to connect to printer" error

[PatrickHK]

I had the printer (HP Laserjet 4100N) and computer (Mac OS X Version 10.6.8 desktop) unplugged for two months.  When I turned both on, I was not able to print anymore.  The two are connected by Ethernet cable (via an Airport Extreme 802.11n )

After printing the Configuration page, I noticed that the printer's HP JetSend address is 10.0.1.8 now.  It used to be 10.0.1.5

When I type http://10.0.1.8/hp/jetdirect, it is confirmed that the printer has a new address.  When I go to Preferences on the computer, followed by Print & Fax, I see the original IP address still there.  When I go to options& supply, the original IP address is present in the Name and Location boxes.  I thought that I could just change the IP address in both of these boxes to the new IP address.  That did not work.  (BTW The Queue name and URL lpd never change from 10.0.1.5 to 10.0.1.8).

Then I thought things would be solved by changing the new IP address to the old one in the menu that appears when I look at http://10.0.1.8/hp/jetdirect.  That did not work either.

What am I missing?

Thank you,

Patrick

[PatrickHK · Accepted solution]

It is solved.....  I went to the Apple discussion board and saw this:

Regal909 Feb 28, 2010 8:35 PM
in response to Chuck Stewart

OK, this one is solved. In Print & FAX Preference Pane, click the plus button to add a printer. Set the Protocol pop up menu to "HP Jetdirect - Socket". In the "Address" field, enter the IP address of the HP 4100.

Leave the "Queue" filed blank unless you are using a print server. I am not....

Set the "Name" field to whatever you want as a name for this printer.
Set the "Location" field to something that reminds you where this printer is physically located.

By this time, you Mac has probably already found the printer by it's IP address, chosen the appropriate driver for you, and therefore all you need to do is click the Add button.

Happy printing.....