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- HP Community
- Printers
- Printing Errors or Lights & Stuck Print Jobs
- I post early below is the follow up

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10-19-2024
06:38 AM
- last edited on
10-20-2024
11:06 AM
by
PalenoRafael
I posted earlier below is the solution however it is not working as expected.
When I turn via the ac power cord the printer turns on and immediately runs a print alignment . While performing this task the printer turns off. I can only turn the print on again by unplugging the adapter at wall at printer then plugging in the cables again then the alignment starts and then it turns off. Even though it turns off I cannot press the power button to turn it on I have to unplug replug the cables. If the printer is on I can turn it off but as is the routine the printer simply shuts down.
In short the alignment never finishes because the printer shuts down during the alignment process. I was thinking if I could go into tools a factory reset would help but the alignment keeps running thus I cannot go into any printer features whilst the alignment keeps looping into that processing routine.
Don't know what to do.....'
Thanks
[edit]
10-21-2024 04:06 PM
Hi @Meherabode
Welcome to HP Support Community.
Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.
It sounds like your printer is experiencing a frustrating issue with the automatic alignment process, leading to it shutting down before the alignment can complete. Here are some troubleshooting steps you can try to resolve the problem:
1. Check for Obstructions
- Clear Paper Path: Make sure there are no paper jams or obstructions in the printer that could interfere with the alignment process.
- Inspect the Cartridges: Check that the ink cartridges are properly seated and that there are no issues with the cartridge contacts.
2. Perform a Hard Reset
- Turn Off the Printer: Unplug the printer from the wall outlet.
- Wait: Leave it unplugged for about 60 seconds.
- Plug Back In: Plug the printer back into the outlet and turn it on. See if it goes through the alignment process again or if it bypasses it.
3. Factory Reset
If possible, you might try to access the factory reset option:
- Wait for Alignment to Stop: You may need to wait for the alignment process to stop before you can access the menu.
- Accessing Tools: After the alignment stops, navigate to the Settings or Tools menu on the printer's display (if accessible) and look for the factory reset option.
4. Update Firmware
- If the printer can connect to the internet, check for firmware updates that might resolve bugs causing the issue. You can usually find this option in the printer settings menu.
5. Check Power Supply
- Use a Different Outlet: Plug the printer into a different wall outlet to rule out power issues.
- Check Power Cord: Inspect the power cord for any damage. If available, try using a different power cord that is compatible with your printer.
I hope this helps.
Take care and have a good day.
Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.
Rachel571
HP Support
Sneha_01- HP support
10-22-2024 08:15 AM
I followed all the steps if possible except Firmware. It is not available on the printer. I could find no download of firmware on HP for this printer.
The printer when turned on stated inappropriate shutdown (that is the printer, not the user) and then the printer insists on running alignment. Today it did run the alignment without shutting down. I have new print head new ink all reset again to follow this info sheet.
I then ran a print job paper 8.5 x 11 with a small black and white photo and the printer started the print job, then shut down. To get the printer, in all shut down instances, I have to unplug at the adapter, then replug all together then the printer turns on. In all these unplugs replugs the printer always turns on the user is never given the option to turning the printer on.
The page that I sent to print was pulled there without any image just a blank page, the the printer shut down.
I have followed the instructions except for firmware update, unable to find one on HP; I will order from Amazon another ac power unit for this printer.
Thanks for these instructions. I am convinced without a doubt that this printer is in excellent working condition just need to somehow do what needs to be done to make it work as intended.
10-22-2024 12:08 PM
Hi @Meherabode,
I have shared link that will help you.
https://support.hp.com/us-en/document/ish_1776648-1643972-16
I hope this helps.
Take care and have a good day.
Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.
Rachel571
HP Support
Sneha_01- HP support
10-23-2024 07:11 AM
Hello
At the printer firmware page
Support Search Results | HP® Customer Support
the Photosmart B8550 is not listed
I do see 8000 and 8200 series no
8550 or B8550 series is listed
What's to do?
Thanks
10-24-2024 07:54 AM
I thought best to resist starting a new thread.
Here's the update.
I have a new ac power adapter.
What is happening is that when inserting at the wall and at the printer the cable the printer turns on with a message 'inappropriate shutdown' This shutdown always happens when the printer run an alignment which happens every time I press ok on the shutdown message. After ok the print runs the alignment. Today I again was able during it series of many shutdowns to run 'restore factory defaults' That's done.
Because I am forced to let the alignment run the printer will spontaneously shut down. Very annoying.
I stated earlier unable to do firmware update as the firmware isn't available for this printer.
I know the printer will print as expected if somehow the appropriate fix is administered.
PS note. If the printer stays on after alignment (rarely) I am able to turn it off, turn it on; but when it turns on again the alignment message appears and the only election is OK it run the process then shuts down the printer.
Why I am persistent in running over this again and again is that I used to print 13 x 19 prints long ago I would enjoy having the ability to print large format photos on the B8550.....
Observational Opinion
10-25-2024 04:34 AM
Hi @Meherabode,
Please help us with the Printer serial number or the product number on a private message for further assistance.
Here is the link to find the product number:- Click here
https://support.hp.com/in-en/document/ish_2039298-1862169-16
In order to access your private messages, click the private message icon on the upper right corner of your HP Support Community profile, next to your profile Name.
Note: Do not share any of your personal information such as serial, phone number, email ID, etc.
Could you elaborate on the issue for better understanding?
Rachel571
HP Support
Sneha_01- HP support
11-02-2024 07:04 AM
If HP Support is unable to provide a solution to this Photosmart B8550 printer that keeps spontaneously shutting down whilst the machine is processing an instruction then I would ask is there a repair printer shop in Los Angeles that I could take the printer to for a repair?
Let me know.
Thanks