Nothing happens when i plug in my usb cable - hp 8050, hp pavilion p7-1026b, win7

[Chefd]

When i plug my usb cable in to my computer nothing happens - it isn't recognized.  HP Pavilion p7-1026b PC with windows 7 64-bit. Printer is an HP photosmart 8050. What should i do?

[pcwizard]

Hi Chefd,

We need to isolate the issue by plugging the printer into another computer and see if you get any plug and play. If it still doesn't recognize that you plugged the printer in then try a new USB cable. If you still don't get the PC to recognize the printer with a new cable and a different PC then the USB port on the printer is not working, and you will need to purchase a new printer.

[Chefd]

printer works when plug into another computer - tried 3 different cables and none work - this problem is all over the internet - just no good quick solutions - thought i'd try here first. figured problem would be a quick fix - evidently not?

[pcwizard]

Hi Chefd,

Refresh the Windows Device Manager

Follow these steps to refresh the Windows Device Manager.

1. Click the Windows icon ( ), type devmgmt.msc in the Search programs and files text box, and then press Enter . The Windows Device Manager opens.
2. Click the arrow ( ) next to the following entries to expand them, and then look for your HP product in each list:
3. IEEE 1284.4 compatible printers
4. Universal Serial Bus controllers
5. Other devices
6. If you see a yellow exclamation mark ( ) next to your product or the phrase Unknown device , continue with the next step.
7. If you do not see your product or a yellow exclamation mark in the list , go to 'Solution three: Completely uninstall and reinstall the HP software'.
8. Right-click the HP device/Unknown device entry or the entry with the ( ) symbol, and then click Update Driver Software . The Update Driver Software - Unknown Device wizard opens.
9. Click Search automatically for updated driver software . Follow the on-screen instructions to refresh the device manager.
10. Repeat these steps for all device entries with the ( ) symbol.

• If these steps resolved the issue , you do not need to continue troubleshooting.

• If the issue persists , continue to the next solution.

[Chefd]

ok - never had this happen before - while printer was connected and on, i lifted up the printer to see the bottom.  the 2 note tone sounded and it installed - printed fine - now i'm worried it's the usb port of the printer - is that replaceable?

[pcwizard · Accepted solution]

Hi Chefd,

The USB port is not replaceable. I am glad to hear you have gotten it installed. If you have issues with connectivity you may want to consider buying a newer printer. Have a good day

[Encryptine]

Hello PC Wizard,

I need help with my deskjet 1050A, it seems not to be communicating properly with my Dell Laptop, I get the following error message when i try to print from a document 'The data area passed to a system call is too small' what in the world does this mean, kindly assist. Many thanks

[moejo]

I have a photosmart 8050.  It will not print.  Used 3 diff cables; 2 different pc.  On pc gives msg USB not

recognized. Any suggestions?