HP Smart Tank 5100 Scan Issue

[Maxwild]

I recently moved over to the new HP app on my desktop (from HP Smart) and can no longer scan using my HP Smart Tank 5000.  Printing works, but not scanning. I can use the HP app on my iphone to scan, but it's frustrating no to have the scanning from my desktop app.  The error I get is "printer not available", but as I said, it works for printing. I've done all the suggestions in the HP videos (unplug, uninstall, diagnose & fix etc).  Anyone have any idea what's going on?

[Pallipurath · Accepted solution]

Hi @Maxwild 

Welcome to the HP Support Community.

Thank you for posting your query.

I understand that printing from your HP Smart Tank 5100 series printer is working correctly, but scanning from the desktop HP application is displaying a "Printer not available" error, while scanning from your iPhone continues to function normally.

Based on the symptoms described, this appears to be related to the communication between the HP application and the scanner service rather than a hardware issue with the printer itself. Since printing is successful, the printer is connected to the network; however, scanning often requires additional device discovery and scan service permissions that may not be functioning correctly on the PC.

Reset the Printer

A printer reset can refresh the printer's network and scan services.

1. Turn the printer ON.
2. Disconnect the power cord from the rear of the printer.
3. Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.
4. Wait for 60 seconds.
5. Plug the power cord back into the wall outlet.
6. Reconnect the power cord to the printer.
7. Turn the printer on if it does not power on automatically.
8. Wait until the printer reaches the ready state.

Once completed, try scanning again.

Run the HP Diagnose & Fix Tool

The HP Diagnose & Fix utility can automatically detect and repair common printing and scanning issues.

1. Open the HP app or HP Smart application on your computer.
2. Select your printer.
3. Click Diagnose & Fix.
4. Allow the tool to run completely.
5. Follow any recommendations provided by the utility.
6. If prompted to repair drivers, network settings, or scan services, select Apply Fix.
7. Restart the computer after the repair process is complete.

After restarting, test the scan function again.

Remove and Re-add the HP App and Printer

Reinstalling the application can resolve communication issues between the computer and scanner.

Remove the HP App

1. Close all HP applications.
2. Open Settings > Apps > Installed Apps.
3. Locate HP app
4. Select Uninstall.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the removal.
6. Restart the computer.

Remove the Printer

1. Open Settings > Bluetooth & Devices > Printers & Scanners.
2. Select the HP Smart Tank printer.
3. Click Remove Device.
4. Confirm the removal.

Reinstall and Add the Printer Again  (HP APP)

1. Download and install the latest HP app from the Microsoft Store.
2. Ensure the printer and computer are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
3. Open the HP app.
4. Click Add Printer.
5. Select your HP Smart Tank printer from the discovered devices.
6. Complete the setup process.
7. Once added, open the Scan section and test scanning.

Click here for detailed video.

Take care and have an amazing day!