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- HP Community
- Printers
- Scanning, Faxing, and Copying
- Scanner will not connect to computer, but can print document...

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06-20-2024 06:11 AM
Hi @566W,
Welcome to the HP Support Community.
I'd be happy to help you!
I understand that you are having issues with the scanning.
To be able to answer you effectively, we need some information.
Are you getting any errors?
Are you able to copy?
May I have the exact product name and number? Refer to this document for steps to find the product details. Do not share any of your personal information such as serial, phone number, email ID, etc.
Nal_NR-Moderator
I am an HP Employee
06-20-2024 09:36 AM
Hello Elohi_NR:
Thanks for replying.
- The only message I get when trying to scan is "Couldn't Connect to Scanner." There is text underneath that line stating it's not compatible or cannot be detected.
- I can, however, print from my computer to the printer. Also, I can scan to a USB on the printer and copy using the printer.
I have an HP Color Laser Jet Pro MFP M283fdw. I have used this printer with no problem for about 3 years.
06-20-2024 10:55 AM
Hi @566W,
Thanks for sharing more details.
When encountering the "Couldn't Connect to Scanner" error on your HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M283fdw, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve the issue:
Check the Basics
- Restart the Printer: Turn off the printer, wait for 30 seconds, and then turn it back on.
- Restart the Computer: Reboot the computer you are trying to scan from.
- Check Connections: Ensure that the printer is properly connected to the network or directly to the computer.
Ensure the Printer is on the Same Network
Make sure that both your printer and your computer are connected to the same Wi-Fi network if you are using a wireless connection.
Update Printer Firmware and Software
- Update Firmware: Visit the HP Customer Support - Software and Driver Downloads page, enter your printer model, and download the latest firmware update.
- Update Software: Ensure you have the latest version of the HP software installed on your computer. Download the HP Smart app or the full-feature software from the same HP support page.
Use HP Print and Scan Doctor
HP offers a free tool called HP Print and Scan Doctor that can diagnose and fix many printing and scanning problems:
- Download HP Print and Scan Doctor: Download here.
- Run the Tool: Open the downloaded file and follow the on-screen instructions to troubleshoot and fix the issue.
Check Scanner Settings and Permissions
Windows:
- Go to Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners.
- Select your HP printer, and then click on Manage.
- Click on Scanner Properties and ensure the scanner is properly set up.
Mac:
- Open System Preferences > Printers & Scanners.
- Select your HP printer and click on Scan.
- Ensure the scanner is properly set up and try scanning again.
Reinstall Printer Drivers
Uninstall Existing Drivers:
- Windows: Go to Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features, find your HP printer software, and uninstall it.
- Mac: Open System Preferences > Printers & Scanners, select your HP printer, and click the minus (-) button to remove it.
Download and Install Latest Drivers:
- Visit the HP Customer Support - Software and Driver Downloads page, enter your printer model, and download the latest drivers and software.
- Follow the installation instructions provided by HP.
Try a Different Scanning Application
If you are using the default scanning application, try an alternative one:
- Windows: Use Windows Fax and Scan or the HP Scan and Capture app available from the Microsoft Store.
- Mac: Use the built-in Preview app or Image Capture.
Network Configuration
Ensure that your network configuration supports the scanning function:
- Check Firewall Settings: Ensure that your firewall or antivirus software is not blocking the scanner. You might need to add an exception for the HP scanning software.
- Check Router Settings: Ensure that your router is not blocking the scanner's IP address.
If none of the above steps resolve the issue, contact HP Phone Support for further assistance.
Hope this helps! Keep me posted for further assistance.
Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.
Nal_NR-Moderator
I am an HP Employee