how to resolve print message 'printer is in an error state'

[cap53t]

I recently acquired a used printer.  The test page works just fine, but when I try to print from my tablet I get error message 'printer is in error state'.  I have tried re-installing printer software, rebooting printer and tablet, still get message.  It also will not let me connect directly with a USB port.

Anyone with ideas/tips?  I cant find this issue on any of the help pages from HP.  Thanks!!

[DavidSMP]

@cap53t,

Good Day.  Thank you for taking an interest in the HP community. I understand that you require assistance regarding issues with the printer displaying an error that it is in error state. I will be really glad to assist you here. 🙂

Fabulous description and superb diagnosis of the issue before posting. Kudos to you for that. 🙂

To assist you with accurate information I would require more information regarding this:

• Did this happen after a recent power outage or surge?
• Did this occur after a recent software or OS update?
• Is it a Wireless or USB connection?
• Is the OS Windows or Mac?

For now, try these steps:

• Please perform a hard reset on the printer from this link: https://support.hp.com/us-en/product/hp-officejet-pro-8600-e-all-in-one-printer-series-n911/4322914/... by following instructions from the section “Step 1: Reset the printer”
• Now check if the issue gets fixed. If you are using HP SmartApp, uninstall it and reinstall it. Now check if the issue gets fixed.

Then from this link: https://support.hp.com/us-en/product/hp-officejet-pro-8600-e-all-in-one-printer-series-n911/4322914/... (HP Printers - Printer is Offline (Windows) perform all the prescribed steps.

• Step 1: Use HP Print and Scan Doctor to check connectivity
• Step 2: Reset the print environment
• Step 3: Set the default printer

Other things to try:

• Connect to a proper wireless network
• Connect to the printer’s wireless direct connection
• Update the printer firmware
• Reinstall the printer software

This should fix the issue assuming that it is a wireless connection and the operating system is windows.

Otherwise please uninstall and reinstall the printer software at the root-level by following these steps:

• In Windows, search for and open Programs and Features.
• Select your HP printer.
• Select Uninstall.
• In Windows, search for and open Devices and Printers.
• In the Devices and Printers window look for your HP Printer. If you see it listed, right-click on it and choose "Delete" or "Remove Device.”
• Open up the run command with the "Windows Key + R" key combo.
• Type printui.exe /s and click OK.
• Click on Drivers tab.
• Look for HP Printer driver. If you see it click on it and click Remove at the bottom.
• Select OK.
• Remove all instances of the same.
• Select Apply and OK on the Print Server Properties windows.

• Close Devices and Printers. 
• Restart the PC again. 

Then download the latest full feature driver from https://support.hp.com/us-en/drivers/selfservice/hp-officejet-pro-8600-e-all-in-one-printer-series-n...   and install it on the computer after selecting the correct operating system.

Connect the printer to your computer only when the setup prompts for the printer.

This should do the trick for you.

Perform all these steps patiently as it is critical to resolving the issue. Good luck to you. I will keep a watch for your response.  Please note that I am not overloading you with steps but instead, giving you more information to work with.

We are as eager as you are to get the issue fixed. I request you to perform all these steps till the issue is fixed.

Let me know how it goes and you have a great day!

To simply say thanks, please click the "Thumbs Up" button to give me a Kudos to appreciate my efforts to help. If this helps, please mark this as “Accepted Solution” as it will help several others with the same issue to get it resolved without hassles.

Take care and have a blessed week ahead. 🙂