Posted by snoopdogMs on 10/8/09 8:18am
Msg #306605

New Printer hookup -need tech help

I purchased another HP Laserjet P3005 printer as a backup for my 2 year old P3005. I thought (ignorance here) since the software for this P3005 had already been downloaded that my computer would recognize this new printer just by unplugging the USB cord from the old to the new. Did not work. This printer did not come with the CD to install, so I went to HP.com to download. Ended up talking for 2 1/2 hours with customer service as he tried to walk me thru the process many different ways. My ear was numb by the time I hung up. He could not get the new printer to work and said he would call back today. Do I need another USB cord for this printer going to the computer? And does this printer need to be added by going to the control panel to printers and faxes and add this printer with its own icon? He tried everything he knew to do.

Reply by Lee/AR on 10/8/09 8:25am
Msg #306606

No real help from me, just a different outcome

Bought same HP printer as one that died and just unplugged old one from computer and plugged in new one---and it worked just fine. Thinking... if you have both printers hooked into your computer, you may have to assign the 'proper port' for the new one....which is NOT what you said you did. I don't know how to do that, but would think that your old CD would be the place to start. Hope someone more knowledgeable responds to this. Am sure someone will.

Reply by PAW on 10/8/09 10:13am
Msg #306629

You hit the snag, Lee

Since the printer is on the USB port, by default only one printer port is generated for each printer family. You may need to create a new printer port for the 2nd twin printer.

Reply by hp/MD on 10/8/09 8:36am
Msg #306608

I have 2 Brother single tray printer and one HP dual tray printer all hooked up to my computer. I had to upload the Brothers software each time, connect each with separate USB. But the HP, I didn't. My computer recognized it. Hp has parallel connection.

Reply by Barbara Taylor on 10/8/09 12:13pm
Msg #306664

Treat it as if it were a new hookup. The new computers does not matter is it the same brand and what you have. You need to follow the same steps, load the software.... hook up USP etc, new technology demand you follow steps regardless