How to Troubleshoot an HP Scanner
- 1). Determine what type of problem you're having with your HP scanner. Deciding whether your problem is software-based or hardware-based will go a long way in narrowing down your troubleshooting options.
- 2). Clean the glass of your HP scanner if you're noticing debris or smudges on your scanned documents. Use a glass cleaner and soft cloth to wipe away dirt and grime from the top of the glass. If the debris appears to be on the bottom of the glass, you can remove the panel with a flat head or Phillips screwdriver, depending on your model. Just pop the glass off and clean it with the glass cleaner and soft cloth from earlier and re-install it.
- 3). Turn off the power to your scanner and disconnect all the cables if you're hearing a strange noise. Wait a full minute before plugging everything back in and turning your scanner back on.
- 4). Disable any Windows start-up programs your computer may be running if your issues appear to be software-based. These programs can sometimes interfere with your scanner and prevent it from working properly. To disable these programs, go to the Windows "Run" menu from the "Start" panel. Enter "MSCONFIG" to bring up the system configuration window, then choose the "Selective Start-up" menu. Un-check all the programs.
- 5). Re-install any software associated with your scanner. To do this, first uninstall your current software by going to the "Add/Remove Programs" menu through the "Start" tab. Locate the HP scanner software and click "Uninstall." Then, insert the installation disc that came with your scanner and follow the on-screen instructions.
- 6). Install any software updates available for your scanner by going to the HP Support website (see Resources). These software updates can help your scanner work properly and can be downloaded easily by visiting the website and finding your scanner among those listed.
- 7). Visit the HP Support website, or consult your owner's manual, for specific troubleshooting options for your specific HP Scanner model.
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