Can't print from desktop

[MayBee2]

HP Officejet 4650 printer will make copies from hard copy but will no longer print from desktop.  Message is - printer not activated  error code -20.  I recently unplugged cords from back of printer and plugged them back in.

[A_Gayathri]

Hi @MayBee2,

Welcome to The HP Support Community.  

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

I understand you are getting the "printer not activated, error code -20" message typically indicates an issue with the printer drivers or configuration on your computer. 

Here are some steps to troubleshoot this issue:

1. Check Printer Connection

• Ensure the printer is properly connected to your computer via USB or WiFi.
• If using a USB connection, verify that the cable is securely plugged in.
• If using WiFi, confirm that the printer is connected to the same network as your computer.

2. Set Printer as Default

• On Windows:
  1. Open the Control Panel and navigate to Devices and Printers.
  2. Right-click your HP OfficeJet 4650 and select Set as default printer.
• On Mac:
  1. Open System Preferences and go to Printers & Scanners.
  2. Select your HP printer and set it as the default printer.

3. Reinstall or Update Printer Drivers

The error could be due to a driver issue. Follow these steps:

1. Uninstall Printer:
   • Open Device Manager on your computer.
   • Expand the Printers section, right-click your HP OfficeJet 4650, and choose Uninstall.
2. Reinstall Driver:
   • Visit the HP Support website and download the latest drivers for your printer.
   • Install the updated drivers and restart your computer.

4. Check Print Spooler

• Open Services (press Windows + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter).
• Scroll to Print Spooler, right-click it, and choose Restart.
• Then try printing again.

5. Remove and Re-add Printer

• Go to Settings > Devices > Printers & Scanners.
• Remove the HP OfficeJet 4650.
• Click Add a printer or scanner, and let your computer detect and re-add the printer.

6. Run HP Print and Scan Doctor HP Print and Scan Doctor

• Download and run the HP Print and Scan Doctor tool to diagnose and resolve printing issues.

Refer to this document: HP OfficeJet 4650 All-in-One Printer series User manual 

HP OfficeJet 4650 All-in-One Printer Series Setup

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day.

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution.