HP Mobile Office Jet 250 Doesn't scan, only via website

[Mandita]

My HP Mobile Office Jet 250 shows error message when I start the scanning process directly from the printer.

It first shows that it cannot recognize paper in the paper feeder and then shows a lengthy error message with multiple possible reasons.

The only way to scan a document is via the online web page of my printer. If I hit the button "scan" on the web page, the same document feeder works immediately and scans the document.

Why does that happen and how can I make the scanner work if I push the button on the printer?

[Max3Aj]

@Mandita, Welcome to HP Support Community. 

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you. 
It sounds like your HP OfficeJet 250 Mobile All-in-One Printer is having trouble initiating scans directly from the printer's control panel, while scanning via the Embedded Web Server (EWS) works fine. This issue can be frustrating, but let's break down the potential causes and provide solutions to fix it.

✅ Why It Happens:

1. Driver or Software Communication Limitation on macOS Big Sur:
   Older HP software utilities or scanner drivers may not fully support initiating scans from the printer panel under macOS Big Sur, especially over a wireless connection.
2. Mismatch Between Printer Defaults and macOS Scan Settings:
   If the printer expects a certain scan destination (like "Scan to Computer" or "Email") and those options aren't properly configured on your Mac, it can throw an error.
3. “Scan to Computer” Not Enabled or Configured:
   Scanning from the control panel typically relies on the "Scan to Computer" feature being properly set up via HP software.

🔧 How to Fix It

Option 1: Use HP Easy Scan or HP Smart App

1. Download the latest version of HP Easy Scan from the Mac App Store or use the HP Smart app.
2. Open HP Easy Scan and go to Preferences.
3. Enable "Scan to Computer."
4. Ensure your printer and Mac are on the same Wi-Fi network.

Option 2: Set Scan to Computer Using HP Utility

1. Open HP Utility (search it via Spotlight or find it in Applications > HP).
2. Select your printer and click Scan to Computer.
3. Click Enable Scan to Computer.
4. Set your default scan preferences (like file format, resolution, and destination folder).

Note: If you don’t see “Scan to Computer” or the utility doesn't respond, it might not be compatible with Big Sur. In that case, rely on HP Smart instead.

Option 3: Update Firmware and Software

1. Check for a firmware update on your printer:
   • On the printer's control panel, go to Setup > Printer Maintenance > Update the Printer.
2. Update HP drivers via HP’s official site for the OfficeJet 250.

💡 Tip: Use EWS for Reliability

Since scanning from the Embedded Web Server (EWS) works perfectly, it indicates that the printer hardware is functioning correctly. This method is reliable, so consider bookmarking the printer's IP address for quick access.You can find the printer's IP by going to:
Printer display > Wireless icon or Settings > Network Summary.

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