HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101fdw not printing from document feeder

[aus100]

Hello, I just received my new printer today - HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101fdw - but I am unable to print from the document feeder. I have my paper in the top slot, but when I select print in different programs it only pulls from tray 1.

I don't see the ability to print from any other tray, or document feeders.

I have documents (state government forms) that have to be filled out on pre-printed paper, and this printer was purchased specifically to do that.

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @aus100 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

I understand how confusing it feels when the printer doesn’t behave as expected, especially since you purchased it specifically to handle pre‑printed forms. Thank you for sharing the details you’ve already tried. 

Let’s walk through the steps together to clarify how the trays and feeder work on your HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101fdw.

 

Step 1: Clarify the Function of the Document Feeder

• The Automatic Document Feeder (ADF) at the top of the printer is designed for scanning, copying, or faxing multiple pages.
• It is not a paper input tray for printing. Printing jobs always pull paper from Tray 1 or any optional paper trays installed.

 

Step 2: Load Pre‑Printed Forms for Printing

• Place your pre‑printed forms into Tray 1 (the main input tray).
• Adjust the paper guides so the forms are aligned properly.
• In your print dialog on the computer, select the correct paper size and type to match the forms.

Guide: Load Paper in HP LaserJet Pro MFP 3101fdw

 

Step 3: Use the ADF for Copying Onto Forms

If your intent is to copy content onto pre‑printed forms:

• Place the blank pre‑printed form in Tray 1.
• Place the original document you want to copy in the ADF.
• Select Copy from the printer’s control panel.
• The printer will scan from the ADF and print onto the paper loaded in Tray 1.

 

Step 4: Printing From Software

• When printing from Word, PDF, or other programs, always select Tray 1 as the source.
• If you want to use special paper (like forms), load them into Tray 1 and set the paper type in the print dialog.

 

Step 5: Use the HP App

• Install the HP App on your Windows PC or mobile device.
• Add the printer and select Copy or Scan functions to use the ADF.
• For printing, the app will direct jobs to Tray 1.

Guide: Install and Use the HP App

 

Step 6: Test With a Simple Copy

• Place a sheet in the ADF.
• Place a pre‑printed form in Tray 1.
• Select Copy from the control panel.
• Confirm that the printer scans from the ADF and prints onto the form.

By following these steps, you’ll be able to use the ADF for scanning or copying and Tray 1 for printing. The key point is that the ADF is not a print input tray—it feeds originals for scanning, while Tray 1 supplies the paper for printing.

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Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye