How can I scan docs using a Laser Jet M234sdw as MS Word files using Windows 11

[Bobotheclown2]

I bought a Laser Jet M234sdw using windows 11 on a HP Pavilion laptop I can't figure out how to get OCR to work. Do I need to buy software, if so, are there any free recommendations?

[A_Gayathri]

Hi @Bobotheclown2,

Welcome to The HP Support Community.  

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

I understand you are trying to scan documents and convert them into editable text in Microsoft Word (OCR) using your HP LaserJet M234sdw on Windows 11, you can do this by using OCR software. The printer itself does not come with built-in OCR capabilities. 

Here’s how you can set it up:
 

Method 1: Using HP Smart App (Free Option)

1. Install HP Smart: If you haven't already, download and install the HP Smart app from the Microsoft Store.
2. Connect the Printer: Ensure your LaserJet M234sdw is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your laptop.
3. Scan Using HP Smart:
   • Open the HP Smart app.
   • Click on Scan.
   • Choose Document Scan or Photo Scan depending on what you need.
   • Once scanned, the app allows you to save the file in various formats, including PDF, which can be opened in Word.

Method 2: Using Free OCR Software

If you want to extract text from your scanned documents and save it as a Word file, you will need OCR software. Here are a few free tools you can use for OCR:

Google Drive OCR (Free):

• Upload the scanned PDF or image (from the HP Smart app) to Google Drive.
• Right-click on the file and select Open with > Google Docs.
• Google Docs will automatically perform OCR on the document, and you’ll be able to edit the text in Google Docs. From there, you can save it as a Word file by going to File > Download > Microsoft Word (.docx).

In summary, while the HP LaserJet M234sdw doesn't have built-in OCR, you can easily scan documents using HP Smart and then use free OCR tools like Google Drive or Online OCR to convert them into Word files.

Refer to this document:  HP printer setup (HP Smart app)
 

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day.

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