media size A4 conflict with media type glossy / photo paper

[KenArdes]

debian 12

hplip-3.24.4

the problem: in the cups / printer properties, when i choose media size A4, i can not choose any kind of glossy / photo paper in media type, it say conflicting options.  

it problematic because

1. black ink is pigment ink, it can not dry in glossy / photo paper

2. in my country most of glossy / photo paper in A4 size

3. the printer will avoid using black ink if media type is glossy / photo paper (please confirm)

please patch it to remove any limiting in pair between media size and media type, that's configuration do not make sense.

non glossy / photo paper

glossy / photo paper

[Max3Aj]

@KenArdes, Welcome to HP Support Community. 

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you. 
 It looks like you're encountering a limitation in the CUPS driver where selecting "A4" as the media size prevents you from choosing glossy/photo paper. This is likely due to pre-configured constraints in the hpcups PPD (PostScript Printer Description) file used by HPLIP.

Possible Workarounds

Edit the PPD File to Remove Constraints

• Locate your printer’s PPD file: lpinfo -m | grep 580
  This will list the PPD path, typically under /etc/cups/ppd/.
• Edit the PPD file: sudo nano /etc/cups/ppd/HP-Smart-Tank-580.ppd
• Look for the *UIConstraints lines restricting A4 + Glossy selection and remove them.
• Save and restart CUPS: sudo systemctl restart cups

Use Custom Paper Size in CUPS

• Instead of selecting "A4," try using a custom paper size with similar dimensions (210x297mm) and see if it allows selecting glossy paper.

Check If Media Type Affects Black Ink Usage

• Yes, HP printers often switch to composite black (mixing CMY inks) when printing on glossy paper because pigment black does not adhere well. This is a firmware-level behavior, so modifying CUPS may not change it.

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day. 

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping! 

Max3Aj

HP Support