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Is your HP DeskJet 3830 series scanner not working? Here is the solution Click here to view the instructions!
Common problems HP Solution Center not working : Adobe Flash Player Error and Unable to scan
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HP Recommended

When trying to Scan on my HP printer through HP Smart.  When  I press the "scan icon" it tells me that the Scanner is in Use.  How do I clear this?

1 REPLY 1
HP Recommended

Hi @PamK54,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

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

I understand you're seeing a "Scanner is in Use" message when trying to scan using the HP Smart app; it usually means the scanner is stuck in a busy state or another app is blocking access. Here's how to fix it:

1. Restart Everything

  • Turn off your printer, unplug it from power for 60 seconds, then plug it back in and turn it on.
  • Restart your computer or mobile device.
  • If you're using a Wi-Fi connection, restart your router too.


2. Use HP Smart’s Diagnose & Fix Tool

HP Smart has a built-in tool that can automatically detect and fix scanning issues.

  • Open the HP Smart app on your Windows 11 PC.
  • Click the wrench icon (⚙️) in the bottom-left corner.
  • Select Diagnose & Fix and follow the prompts.

🔗 HP Scanner not working - Troubleshooting scan issues | HP® Support


3. Check for Conflicting Apps

  • Make sure no other scanning apps (like Windows Fax and Scan or third-party tools) are open.
  • Close any background apps that might be using the scanner.


4. Re-add the Printer in HP Smart

  • In HP Smart, remove the printer.
  • Click Add Printer and follow the steps to reconnect it.


5. Reset the Printer

If the issue persists:

  • On the printer's touchscreen, go to:
    • Settings > Printer Maintenance > Restore > Restore Factory Defaults (or similar wording depending on firmware version).

 

I hope this helps.

 

Take care, and have an amazing day!
 

Did we resolve the issue? If yes, please consider marking this post as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" to give us a helpful vote - your feedback keeps us going!

 

Regards,

VikramTheGreat

† The opinions expressed above are the personal opinions of the authors, not of HP. By using this site, you accept the <a href="https://www8.hp.com/us/en/terms-of-use.html" class="udrlinesmall">Terms of Use</a> and <a href="/t5/custom/page/page-id/hp.rulespage" class="udrlinesmall"> Rules of Participation</a>.