Manage copying from computer?

[CTanz]

Learning how to use the new printer with many new features since replacing my 10-year old HP. I  notice when printing, many adjustments can be done on the computer, BUT, does that also work for making copies or do I continue to use the printer touch screen? i.e. controls like light/dark, number of copies, etc.

[Hawks_Eye · Accepted solution]

Hi @CTanz 

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

I completely understand the adjustment you’re making—moving from a 10‑year‑old printer to a new model with modern features can feel like stepping into a whole new world. Thank you for already exploring the computer‑side adjustments; that shows great initiative. 

Let me clarify how copying works compared to printing, so you can feel confident using both.

 

Printing vs. Copying Controls

• Printing from the computer: You can adjust settings such as light/dark, scaling, paper type, and number of copies directly through the print dialog on your Windows PC. These settings are applied before the job is sent to the printer.
   
• Copying directly on the printer: Copying is a standalone function. The printer uses its own built‑in controls (via the touch screen) to manage options like contrast (light/dark), number of copies, paper size, and reduction/enlargement. These adjustments are not controlled from the computer because the copy process doesn’t involve the PC—it’s handled entirely by the printer’s hardware.
   

How to Manage Copy Settings on the Touch Screen

1. Place your document on the scanner glass or in the automatic document feeder.
    
2. Tap Copy on the printer’s touch screen.
    
3. Adjust the number of copies using the keypad or plus/minus buttons.
    
4. Select Settings or Options to adjust:
   • Light/Dark (contrast)
   • Paper size/type
   • Reduce/Enlarge
   • Quality (draft vs. best)
      
5. Once your preferences are set, press Start to begin copying.

 

Key Difference

• Printing = controlled from the computer.
• Copying = controlled from the printer’s touch screen.

So, for tasks like adjusting light/dark or setting the number of copies when making a copy, you’ll continue to use the printer’s touch screen. The computer’s print dialog only applies when sending a document to print.

You’ve already done the right thing by exploring the computer settings for printing. Now, with copying, think of the touch screen as your “control panel” for those adjustments. It’s designed to give you quick, tactile control right at the device.

Would you like me to walk you through how to save your favorite copy settings so you don’t have to adjust them every time?

If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution! ✅ It helps others and spreads support. 💙 Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks! 😊

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye

[CTanz]

Dear Hawks,

This answered my question perfectly--as I expected, but with this machine doing so much else that I wasn't expecting, it needed an extra confirmation :).  Much appreciate your comprehensive reply and the only thing I would mention is that I'm adjusting "settings such as light/dark, scaling, paper type, and number of copies directly through the print dialog" on my Mac Tahoe OS not Windows PC. But the point you make that copying is a standalone function says it all! Thank you!

✅💙😀 and a big high five✋.

[Hawks_Eye]

You are very welcome @CTanz 

If you need anything else, I'm all ears (or rather, all text). Just let me know! 

You're awesome, and I'm honored to have been your go-to guide! 😊

Stay fantastic, and have an amazing day ahead! 

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye