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Is your HP DeskJet 3830 series scanner not working? Here is the solution Click here to view the instructions!
Common problems HP Solution Center not working : Adobe Flash Player Error and Unable to scan
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Our printer Envy 4520 will print from the computer but you cannot put a paper and scan to copy. The scanner only goes about 1" and the repeats and then nothing happens

1 REPLY 1
HP Recommended

Hi @PitD 

 

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

 

Thanks for describing the issue so clearly—it sounds like the scanner mechanism is stalling during the copy process. Let’s gently walk through steps to help your HP Envy 4520 scan and copy smoothly again.

 

1. Power Reset the Printer

This refreshes the scanner’s internal sensors:

  • Turn off the printer and unplug the power cable from both the printer and wall.
  • Wait 60 seconds.
  • Plug it back in and power it on.
  • Try copying again.

 

2. Check Scanner Glass and Lid

  • Open the scanner lid and gently clean the glass surface with a soft, lint-free cloth dampened with glass cleaner.
  • Wipe the white underside of the lid as well.
  • Ensure there’s no dust, smudges, or debris that could interfere with scanning.

 

3. Inspect Scanner Bar Movement

  • Place a blank sheet on the glass and press Copy.
  • Watch the scanner bar: if it moves only slightly and then stops, gently lift the lid and check for obstructions or misalignment.
  • Do not force the scanner bar—just observe and power off if it’s stuck.

 

4. Update Firmware

Outdated firmware can affect scanner calibration:

  • Visit the HP Envy 4520 support page.
  • Select your operating system and download the latest firmware.
  • Follow the instructions to install it via USB or Wi-Fi.

 

5. Use the HP App to Scan

Sometimes initiating a scan from the app bypasses local copy issues:

  • Open the HP App on your phone or computer.
  • Select your printer > Scan > choose Scan from Glass.
  • Try scanning a page and saving it as a PDF or image.

 

6. Check for Mechanical Resistance

  • With the printer off, gently slide the scanner bar left and right.
  • It should move smoothly without resistance.
  • If it feels stuck or uneven, avoid forcing it—just note the behavior.

 

Let me know how the scanner responds after these steps. If it still stalls, I can help you isolate whether it’s a sensor calibration issue or a mechanical misalignment.

 

 

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

I am an HP Employee.
† The opinions expressed above are the personal opinions of the authors, not of HP. By using this site, you accept the <a href="https://www8.hp.com/us/en/terms-of-use.html" class="udrlinesmall">Terms of Use</a> and <a href="/t5/custom/page/page-id/hp.rulespage" class="udrlinesmall"> Rules of Participation</a>.