Problems scanning - Folder always empty.

[MonMul]

It prints perfectly, but when I try to scan, it goes through the motions (and the light comes on) but in never scans anything and always comes back with a Failed to Scan, Document feeder empty....even though it actually fed the page on to the scanner. If you choose flatbed, then it just goes into a loop and never stops...the machinery does not even start....This is the scanner app that I am using....is the regular Linux Mint one. My previous printer (9012e) which died recently, had no problem with this software and scanned without a problem.

[Fabio_L32]

Hello @MonMul 

Try the procedures below:

To install the scanner driver for your HP OfficeJet 9012e on Linux, use the built-in HPLIP (HP Linux Imaging and Printing) software, usually found in your distro's repositories (install with sudo apt install hplip or similar), then connect the printer and use a scanning app like Simple Scan or the HPLIP Toolbox, installing any necessary proprietary plugins if prompted by the toolbox for full functionality like two-sided scanning. 

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Check for Existing HPLIP:
   • Most Linux distributions include HPLIP, but you should update your system first.
   • Open your terminal and run:
     bash

     sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade # For Debian/Ubuntu based systems
     # Or use your distribution's equivalent (e.g., dnf update for Fedora)
     

2. Install HPLIP (if needed):
   • Search for and install the HPLIP package and its GUI (HPLIP Toolbox).
     bash

     sudo apt install hplip hplip-gui # For Debian/Ubuntu
     # Or search your repositories for 'hplip' and install
     

   • HP provides downloads if your distro's version is old.
3. Connect Printer & Install Plugin:
   • Turn on your printer and connect it via USB or ensure it's on the same network.
   • Run the HPLIP Toolbox: hp-toolbox in the terminal, or find it in your applications menu.
   • The toolbox should detect your 9012e and guide you through installing a required "proprietary plugin" for full features.
4. Scan with a GUI App:
   • Open a scanning application like Document Scanner (Simple Scan) or XSane (often used with HPLIP.
   • Select your printer from the device list (you might need to click a refresh/scan button) and start scanning. 

If You Have Issues

• Ensure the universe repository is enabled (for Ubuntu/Mint) as it often contains HPLIP.
• If the plugin doesn't install, check the HPLIP website for specific instructions or newer versions. 

Best regards