mac OS not connecting with HP 2050

[GFINRIDGE]

Hi, I have an HP2050 portable printer but it will not connect to my Macbook pro running Sonoma 14.5.  I am beginning to think that this is just no longer viable with this OS since.  I believe I have used this printer with earlier versions of the OS, but I simply get a message that used cartridges are installed. I have put in a set of commercially re-loaded ink cartridges, but I don't want to waste $60 to try out HP cartridges if it's an OS issue.  

Anyone have any insights on this?  It's still a good printer, but I need it to work with this computer or it's useless to me.

[Sneha_01]

HI @GFINRIDGE,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

Getting your HP 2050 printer to work with macOS Sonoma (14.5) can indeed be a challenge, especially if the printer has not been updated to handle newer operating systems. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you troubleshoot and potentially resolve the connectivity issue:

1. Check Printer Compatibility:

• Confirm that the HP 2050 is officially supported on macOS Sonoma. Sometimes older printers may not be fully compatible with the latest macOS versions.:
• Visit the HP Support website and check if there are any specific drivers or software updates available for macOS Sonoma.

2. Install the Latest Printer Drivers

• Go to the HP website and download the latest drivers and software for the HP 2050 that are compatible with macOS.
• Open the downloaded file and follow the installation instructions.

3. Update macOS and Printer Firmware

• Ensure that macOS Sonoma is updated to the latest version. Sometimes, OS updates include fixes for compatibility issues.
• Check if there is any firmware update available for your HP 2050 printer and follow HP’s instructions to update it.

4. Check for Printer Errors

• Make sure there are no error messages or issues with the printer itself, such as ink cartridge problems or paper jams.
• Since you mentioned using reloaded cartridges, ensure they are properly installed and recognized by the printer. Sometimes reloaded cartridges can cause issues with recognition.

5. Add Printer on macOS

• Go to System Settings (or System Preferences) on your 
• Click on Printers & Scanners.
• Click the + button to add a new printer. Your Mac should search for available printers. Select your HP 2050 from the list if it appears.

Select Printer Driver:

• If prompted, choose the HP driver that was installed or select Generic PostScript Printer if a specific driver isn’t available.

6. Reset Printing System

• Go to System Settings (or System Preferences) on your Mac.
• Click on Printers & Scanners.
• Right-click (or Control-click) in the Printers list and select Reset printing system. This will remove all printers and reset the print syste
• After resetting, try to add your HP 2050 printer again.

7. Use AirPrint (if available)

• Some HP printers support AirPrint, which allows you to print wirelessly from macOS without needing specific drivers.
• If your HP 2050 supports AirPrint, it should appear automatically when you try to add a new printer in Printers & Scanners.

8. Use Printer's IP Address

• If your HP 2050 is network-connected, find its IP address from the printer’s control panel or configuration page.
• Go to System Settings > Printers & Scanners > + > IP.
• Enter the IP address and follow the instructions to add the 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

[GFINRIDGE]

I have already been to the support site to look for updates  or drivers and they seem to end well below Sonoma, although I can find no information indicating that is the case one way or another.  Too bad, it's decent all in one printer but is essentially useless now.

[Sneha_01]

Hi @GFINRIDGE 

I'm sending out a private message to assist you with the next course of action. 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.

Hope this helps! Keep me posted for further assistance.

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