What does ? mean on my printer

[gmatrudi]

My printer shows a ? and will not print when given the instruction from my computer however the print is fine from the copy mode or from the screen on the printer.  I have printed the Status Report and it shows everything is OK. Also it is turning itself off and will not stay on for any length of time.  When going to the HP site It says that there is a critical firmware update available but does not say which one it is or how to download it and when I request to download it now several driver and other downloads are available and I'm not sure if I need them  all or what they do.  

[Sneha_01]

Hi @gmatrudi,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

It sounds like your printer is displaying a question mark (?) symbol and is experiencing issues with printing from your computer, staying on, and possibly needing a firmware update. Here are some steps you can take to address these issues:

Step 1: Understand the Question Mark Symbol

The question mark (?) symbol on your printer usually indicates that there is an issue that needs attention. This could be related to connectivity, firmware, or another printer component.

Step 2: Firmware Update

Identify Your Printer Model: Make sure you know your exact printer model number (e.g., HP Envy 5530).

Visit HP's Support Website: Go to the HP Customer Support - Software and Driver Downloads.

Enter Your Printer Model: Enter your printer model in the search bar and select it from the list.

Select Your Operating System: Choose your operating system (e.g., Windows, macOS).

Download Firmware Update: Look for the firmware section. Download the latest firmware update available for your printer model.

Step 3: Update Printer Drivers

Make sure you have the latest printer drivers installed:

Download Printer Drivers:

• From the same HP support page where you found the firmware update, download the latest printer drivers for your operating system.

Install Printer Drivers:

• Run the downloaded driver installation file and follow the on-screen instructions.

Step 4: Check Printer Settings

Ensure that your printer is set up correctly:

Check Printer Connection:

• Make sure your printer is properly connected to your Wi-Fi network or via USB to your computer.

Set Printer as Default:

• On your computer, go to "Printers & Scanners" settings.
• Ensure your HP printer is set as the default printer.

Step 5: Power Settings

• Check the printer’s power settings. Some printers have an energy-saving mode that can cause them to turn off if not used for a certain period.
• Adjust the settings to prevent the printer from turning off unexpectedly.

Step 6: Perform a Hard Reset

Performing a hard reset can sometimes resolve unexplained issues:

1. Turn Off the Printer:
   • Unplug the printer from the power source.
   • Wait for 60 seconds.
   • Plug the printer back in and turn it on.

Step 7: Test Printing

After updating the firmware and drivers and adjusting the settings:

Restart Computer and Printer:

• Restart both your computer and printer.

Print a Test Page:

• Try printing a test page from your computer to see if the issue is resolved.

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