How to specify where scanned files are saved on computer

[dherm01]

Is there a way to specify where documents scanned to my computer should be saved?

I've owned 4 HP All-in-One printers which usually have to be replaced every 2-3 years. This time I spent a little more and purchased a different model HP printer. Previously, if I scanned a file from the printer's control panel to my computer, it saved under the Microsoft Windows "My Scans" folder. (I could also set up several saved shortcuts which specified all sorts of info, including resolution, where to save, if I was scanned a photo, document or book, 1-2 sided, whether to save as a PDF, JPG, etc., plus other helpful info.) However, now the scan is saved at the bottom of My Documents, and I can't figure out how to change that. Of course I can initiate the scan from my computer, which gives me the option of where to save the file. But since my printer is a network printer and not on my work desk, it's much easier to press "scan to computer" from the printer. (It also won't scan from the document feeder unless I initiate the scan from my computer, but I probably need to start a different help topic for that!) Any suggestions are appreciated!

[Sneha_01 · Accepted solution]

Hi @dherm01,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

To specify where scanned files are saved on your computer, especially when initiating scans from your printer's control panel, you need to adjust settings in the printer software or the scanning application. Here's how you can set this up:

1. Use HP Smart App

The HP Smart app allows you to customize scan settings and specify where files are saved. Here’s how to set it up:

Open HP Smart App:

• Open the HP Smart app on your computer or mobile device.

Select Your Printer:

• Ensure your HP printer is selected.

Access Scan Settings:

• Click on Scan.
• Choose Manage Scan to Computer or similar options.

Set Default Save Location:

• Look for an option to specify the default folder for saved scans. This may be under settings or preferences related to Scan to Computer.
• Set your desired folder.

Save Changes:

• Apply the changes and test scanning to ensure it saves to the new location.

2. Configure Printer Software Settings

If you are using HP's printer software:

Open Printer Software:

• Go to Start > HP or Programs and find your HP printer software.

Access Scan Settings:

• Navigate to the scan settings or scan configuration.

Specify Save Location:

• Look for options that allow you to specify where scanned files should be saved.
• Change the default save location to your desired folder.

Save and Apply:

• Save your settings and perform a test scan to ensure it saves in the new location.

3. Use Windows Fax and Scan

If you use Windows Fax and Scan to initiate scans:

Open Windows Fax and Scan:

• Go to Start > Windows Accessories > Windows Fax and Scan.

Start a New Scan:

• Click New Scan.

Change Save Location:

• After initiating the scan, choose the save location in the Save As dialog box.
• Save the scanned document to your preferred folder.

4. Update or Reinstall Printer Drivers

Sometimes, updating or reinstalling printer drivers can reset and allow you to configure scan settings properly:

• Go to the HP Support website.
• Download and install the latest drivers for your printer model.
• Reopen the HP software and reconfigure scan settings, including the save location.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.

Rachel571

HP Support

[dherm01]

Sorry that it took me so long to read your helpful info! Like usual, as soon as I posted my question, something else took my full attention for several weeks!

It hadn't occurred to me to open the HP Scan app! It had the exact things I was looking for! It allowed me to set up different scan shortcuts, including where to save the files! I had just assumed that the HP "Smart" app would allow me to change the default settings, but it doesn't include "save location" any longer.

Anyway, THANK YOU so much for your help! It's working perfectly now, and I was even able to add additional shortcuts for different scenarios. (It's amazing how something so little can really drive you crazy!!)