My printer is only printing half a page regardless of how I connect the printer

[Mark899]

My printer is only printing half a page regardless of how I connect the printer(through wireless or usb cable). What is the source of this problem and how can I fix it? I already tried reinstalling the printer drivers and tried using the hp print and scan doctor

[Max3Aj]

@Mark899, Welcome to the HP Support Community – it’s great to have you here!

I appreciate you taking the time to share your question. I'm more than happy to assist with this and provide a solution that works for you.

I understand your HP Smart Tank 5101 is printing only half a page, regardless of whether it's connected via USB or Wi-Fi. You've already tried reinstalling drivers, great first steps!

This issue can be caused by several factors, including software conflicts, print spooler issues, or even hardware-related problems. Let’s walk through a few steps to isolate and resolve it:

Power Reset the Printer

• Turn off the printer.
• Unplug the power cord from the printer and wall outlet.
• Wait for 60 seconds.
• Plug it back in and turn it on.

This clears any temporary hardware glitches.

Check for Firmware Updates

Outdated firmware can cause printing issues.

• Visit the HP Support page - Official HP® Support
• Select your OS and download the latest Firmware Update Utility.
• Run the tool and follow on-screen instructions.

Print from HP Smart App or Notepad

Try printing a simple document from:

• HP Smart App (download from HP Smart)
• Windows Notepad

If it prints correctly from these, the issue may be with the application you're using (e.g., Word, browser).

Clear the Print Spooler

Sometimes the print queue gets corrupted.

Windows Steps:

1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Find Print Spooler, right-click, and choose Stop.
3. Go to C:\Windows\System32\spool\PRINTERS and delete all files.
4. Go back to services.msc, right-click Print Spooler, and choose Start.

Reinstall Printer Using HP Smart

Instead of using Windows default drivers:

1. Uninstall the printer from Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.
2. Restart your PC.
3. Download and install HP Smart.
4. Add your printer and try printing again.

Try a Copy Function

Use the Copy button on the printer to copy a full-page document. If the copy also prints half a page, it may indicate a hardware issue (e.g., paper feed, ink system, or internal board), in that case, please visit the nearest HP authorized service center, the service team will check and assist you. 
Kindly follow this link to locate the nearest HP service center: HP® Service Center Locator - United States | HP® Support
(Select the country from the dropdown menu and enter the city name or pincode)

I hope your issue is now resolved. If not, feel free to reply and we’ll continue helping until everything’s sorted!

If the post helped, please click “Accepted Solution” to help other users easily find it. And if you’d like to say thanks, just tap the “Yes” button!

Cheers,

Max3Aj

HP Support