OfficeJet 6950 Scan Issues

[OrigVirtualMike]

I have an OfficeJet 6950. I've used it for years with a Lenovo Yoga notebook computer and the standard OfficeJet 6950 software. To scan, I open the OfficeJet 6950 app, click "Scan," then "Scan a Document or Photo," which opens the HP Scan app.

I'm now using an HP Spectre notebook computer, and twice now, the HP Scan software has refused to work, saying it couldn't connect to the device. I'm able to print, check ink levels, etc., but I cannot scan. In both cases, I had to remove the complete OfficeJet 6950 software and reinstall. Part-way through the installation process, it hangs with no explanation, but if I kill the task, I'm then able to use the software, including the HP Scan software... for a while, anyway.

The HP Smart app will work for scanning even when HP Scan won't, but it's a poor substitute because it will not allow me to scan double-sided documents through the sheet feeder, so it's almost useless to me. Searching online, I found references to a stand-alone HP app that supposedly will do all the stuff the OfficeJet 6950 software does, but it does not appear to be available for my computer.

Does anyone have any ideas why the HP Scan component of the OfficeJet 6950 keeps complaining that it can't connect, even though the rest of the OfficeJet 6950 can?

Is there a way for me to get the HP app, or has HP decided that my printer is not worthy?

[OrigVirtualMike]

I have discovered why the standard OfficeJet 6950 software stops working.

When I let the Microsoft Store update the Microsoft apps, for some reason, it also "updates" the OfficeJet 6950 software. When it does that, the OfficeJet 6950 software breaks, claiming it cannot connect to the scanner.

I'm guessing the Microsoft Store version is older or is missing drivers that the HP installation package provides.

Can someone at HP please address this? 

[Max3Aj]

@OrigVirtualMike, 

Hello and welcome to the HP Support Community!

I'm here to help you get things back on track.

Thanks for reaching out and providing such a detailed description, that really helps narrow down the issue. You're absolutely right that the HP Scan app bundled with the full OfficeJet 6950 software sometimes breaks after Microsoft Store updates. 

Here's how to resolve and prevent the issue:

Step 1: Uninstall all HP software completely

1. Go to Control Panel > Programs > Uninstall a Program.
2. Remove:
   • HP OfficeJet 6950 software
   • HP Scan
   • HP Smart (optional, if you plan to reinstall later)
3. Also go to Settings > Apps > Installed Apps and remove any HP-related entries.

Step 2: Use HP's Full Feature Software (not Microsoft Store version)

Microsoft Store may install a stripped-down version of the HP software that lacks full scan functionality.

• Download the full driver and software package directly from HP: Official HP® Support

Important: After downloading, right-click the installer and choose "Run as Administrator" to avoid permission issues.

Step 3: Disable Automatic App Updates from Microsoft Store

To prevent future overwrites:

1. Open Microsoft Store.
2. Click your profile icon > App settings.
3. Turn Off “Update apps automatically”.

Step 4: Test HP Scan

After reinstalling the full HP software:

• Open HP Printer Assistant > Click Scan > Choose "Scan a Document or Photo".
• Confirm that HP Scan launches and connects properly.

Optional Workaround: Use Windows Fax and Scan

If HP Scan fails again, you can temporarily use:

• Windows Fax and Scan (built-in app)
• Go to Start > Search “Windows Fax and Scan” > Use “New Scan” > Select your printer

It supports ADF scanning but may not offer duplex unless the driver exposes that feature.

I hope the information shared has been useful and resolves your concern.

Wishing you a smooth and hassle-free experience ahead!

If this solution helped, please click “Accepted Solution” so others can benefit too. Don’t forget to hit the “Yes” button if you found this helpful!

Warm regards,

Max3Aj

HP Support