Color LaserJet Pro M253-M254 User Guide M253-M254 www.hp.
Color LaserJet Pro M253-M254 User Guide
Copyright and License Trademark Credits © Copyright 2017 HP Development Company, L.P. Adobe®, Adobe Photoshop®, Acrobat®, and PostScript® are trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated. Reproduction, adaptation, or translation without prior written permission is prohibited, except as allowed under the copyright laws. The information contained herein is subject to change without notice.
Table of contents 1 Printer overview ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 1 Printer views .............................................................................................................................................................................. 2 Printer front view .............................................................................
Label orientation ............................................................................................................................................... 26 3 Supplies, accessories, and parts .......................................................................................................................................................... 27 Order supplies, accessories, and parts ...................................................................................................................
5 Manage the printer ................................................................................................................................................................................. 51 Use HP Web Services applications (touchscreen models only) ...................................................................................... 52 Change the printer connection type (Windows) ................................................................................................................
Clear paper jams in Tray 2 ................................................................................................................................ 83 Clear paper jams in the rear door and the fuser area .................................................................................. 85 Clear paper jams in the duplexer (duplex models only) .............................................................................. 87 Clear paper jams in the output bin ...........................................
The wireless connection does not work after moving the wireless router or printer .......................... 113 Cannot connect more computers to the wireless printer ......................................................................... 113 The wireless printer loses communication when connected to a VPN ................................................... 114 The network does not appear in the wireless networks list ....................................................................
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1 Printer overview ● Printer views ● Printer specifications ● Printer hardware setup and software installation For more information: The following information is correct at the time of publication. For current information, see www.hp.com/ support/ljM253.
Printer views ● Printer front view ● Printer back view ● 2-line control-panel view (nw and dn models only) ● Touchscreen control-panel view (dw models only) Printer front view 1 2 10 9 3 4 5 6 7 2 8 1 2-line backlit control panel (nw and dn models only) 2 Output bin 3 Output bin extension 4 Front door (access to the toner cartridges) 5 Model name 6 Single-sheet priority feed slot (Tray 1) 7 Main input tray (Tray 2) 8 Power button 9 Control panel with color touchscreen displa
Printer back view 1 2 6 3 4 5 ENWW 1 Rear door (access for clearing jams) 2 Serial number and product number label 3 Power connection 4 USB interface port 5 Ethernet port 6 Duplexer (duplex models only) Printer views 3
2-line control-panel view (nw and dn models only) 1 2 7 3 6 4 4 5 1 2-line control panel display This screen displays menus and printer information. 2 OK button Press the OK button for the following actions: 3 Left arrow 4 Back arrow button button Chapter 1 Printer overview ● Open the control-panel menus. ● Open a submenu displayed on the control-panel display. ● Select a menu item. ● Clear some errors.
ENWW 5 Wireless only) 6 Cancel 7 Right arrow button (wireless models button button Use this button to access the wireless menu. Press this button to cancel a print job or to exit the control panel menus. Use this button to navigate through the menus or to increase a value that appears on the display.
Touchscreen control-panel view (dw models only) 1 2 3 4 5 1 Back 2 Home 3 Help 4 Touchscreen The display provides access to menus, help animations, and printer information. 5 Home page screen indicator The display indicates which Home screen the control panel is currently displaying. button button button Touch this button to return to the previous screen. Touch this button to navigate to the Home screen. Touch this button to open the control-panel help system.
Home screen layout The Home screen provides access to the printer features and indicates the current status of the printer. Return to the Home screen at any time by touching the Home button on the printer control panel. NOTE: The features that appear on the Home screen can vary, depending on the printer configuration. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 Reset button Touch this button to reset any temporary job settings to the default printer settings.
How to use the touchscreen control panel Use the following actions to use the printer touchscreen control panel. 8 Action Description Example Touch Touch an item on the screen to select that item or open that menu. Also, when scrolling through menus, briefly touch the screen to stop the scrolling. Touch the Setup Setup menu. Swipe Touch the screen and then move the finger horizontally to move the screen sideways. Swipe the Home screen to access the Setup button.
Printer specifications IMPORTANT: The following specifications are correct at the time of publication, but they are subject to change. For current information, see www.hp.com/support/ljM253. ● Technical specifications ● Supported operating systems ● Mobile printing solutions ● Printer dimensions ● Power consumption, electrical specifications, and acoustic emissions ● Operating environmental range Technical specifications See www.hp.com/support/ljM253 for current information.
Table 1-1 Supported operating systems and print drivers (continued) Operating system Print driver installed (from the software on the web) Notes Windows Vista®, 32-bit The “HP PCL.6” printer-specific print driver is installed for this operating system as part of the software installation. Microsoft retired mainstream support for Windows Vista in April 2012. HP will continue to provide best effort support for the discontinued Vista operating system. Some features of the print driver are not supported.
NOTE: For HP UPD driver support for this printer, go to www.hp.com/go/upd. Under Additional information, click the links. Table 1-2 Minimum system requirements Windows OS X ● CD-ROM drive, DVD drive, or an Internet connection ● Internet connection ● Dedicated USB 1.1 or 2.
Printer dimensions Figure 1-1 Dimensions for the M254nw and M254dn models 3 3 2 1 1 2 Printer fully closed Printer fully open 1. Height 247.5 mm (9.7 in) 247.5 mm (9.7 in) 2. Depth M254nw models: 385.8 mm (15.2 in) M254nw models: 855 mm (33.7 in) M254dn models: 419 mm (16.5 in) M254dn models: 1008 mm (39.7 in) 3. Width 392 mm (15.4 in) 392 mm (15.4 in) Weight (with cartridges) M254nw models: 13.8 kg (30.4 lb) M254dn models: 14.8 kg (32.
Printer fully closed Printer fully open 3. Width 392 mm (15.4 in) 392 mm (15.4 in) Weight (with cartridges) 14.8 kg (32.6 lb) Power consumption, electrical specifications, and acoustic emissions See www.hp.com/support/ljM253 for current information. CAUTION: Power requirements are based on the country/region where the printer is sold. Do not convert operating voltages. This will damage the printer and void the printer warranty.
Printer hardware setup and software installation For basic setup instructions, see the Setup Poster and Getting Started Guide that came with the printer. For additional instructions, go to HP support on the Web. Go to www.hp.com/support/ljM253 for HP's all-inclusive help for the printer.
2 Paper trays ● Introduction ● Load paper to the single-sheet slot (Tray 1) ● Load paper to Tray 2 ● Load and print envelopes ● Load and print labels For more information: The following information is correct at the time of publication. For current information, see www.hp.com/ support/ljM253.
Introduction CAUTION: Do not extend more than one paper tray at a time. Do not use paper tray as a step. Keep hands out of paper trays when closing. All trays must be closed when moving the printer. Load paper to the single-sheet slot (Tray 1) Introduction The following information describes how to load paper in Tray 1. This tray holds 1 sheet of paper, use it to print single-page documents, documents that require multiple paper types, or envelopes.
3. Insert the single sheet into the slot and hold it. The printer will pull the sheet partially into the paper path. For information about how to orient the paper, see Tray 1 paper orientation on page 18. NOTE: Depending on the size of the paper, you might need to support the sheet with two hands until the sheet advances into the printer. 4. At the computer, begin the printing process from the software application.
Tray 1 paper orientation When using paper that requires a specific orientation, load it according to the information in the following table. Paper type Image orientation Ouput Paper size How to load paper Letterhead or Preprinted Portrait 1-sided printing Letter, Legal, Executive, Oficio (8.5 x 13), A4, A5, A6, B5 (JIS), B5 (ISO), Postcard #10, Japanese Postcard (Postcard (JIS)), Double Japan Postcard Rotated (Double Postcard (JIS)) Face-up Letter, Legal, Executive, Oficio (8.
Load paper to Tray 2 Introduction The following information describes how to load paper in Tray 2. This tray holds up to 250 sheets of 75 g/m2 (20 lb) paper. NOTE: 1. To avoid paper jams: ● Never add or remove paper from the tray during printing. ● Before loading the tray, remove all of the paper from the input tray and straighten the stack. ● When loading the tray, do not fan the paper. ● Use paper that is not wrinkled, folded, or damaged. Open the tray.
3. Load the paper into the tray. For information about how to orient the paper, see Tray 2 paper orientation on page 21. 4. Adjust the guides so that they lightly touch the paper stack, but do not bend it. NOTE: Do not adjust the paper guides tightly against the paper stack. NOTE: To prevent jams, adjust the paper guides to the correct size and do not overfill the tray. 5. 20 Close the tray.
Tray 2 paper orientation When using paper that requires a specific orientation, load it according to the information in the following table. Paper type Image orientation Output Paper size How to load paper Letterhead or preprinted Portrait 1-sided printing Letter, Legal, Executive, Oficio (8.
Paper type Image orientation Output Paper size How to load paper 2-sided printing A5 Face-down Top edge toward the back of the tray Prepunched Portrait Landscape 22 Chapter 2 Paper trays 1-sided printing or 2sided printing Letter, Legal, Executive, Oficio (8.
Load and print envelopes Introduction The following information describes how to print and load envelopes. Tray 1 holds 1 envelope. Tray 2 holds up to 5 envelopes. To print envelopes using the manual feed option, follow these steps to select the correct settings in the print driver, and then load the envelopes into the tray after sending the print job to the printer. Print envelopes 1. From the software program, select the Print option. 2.
Envelope orientation Tray Envelope size How to load envelopes Tray 1 Envelope #10, Envelope Monarch, Envelope B5, Envelope C5, Envelope DL Face up Envelope #10, Envelope Monarch, Envelope B5, Envelope C5, Envelope DL Face up Tray 2 24 Chapter 2 Paper trays Short, postage end leading into the printer Short, postage end leading into the printer ENWW
Load and print labels Introduction The following information describes how to print and load labels. Tray 1 holds 1 sheet of labels. Tray 2 holds up to 50 sheets of labels. To print labels using the manual feed option, follow these steps to select the correct settings in the print driver, and then load the labels into the tray after sending the print job to the printer. When using manual feed, the printer waits to print the job until it detects that the tray has been opened. Manually feed labels 1.
Label orientation Tray How to load labels Tray 1 Face-up Top edge leading into the printer Tray 2 Face-up Top edge leading into the printer 26 Chapter 2 Paper trays ENWW
3 Supplies, accessories, and parts ● Order supplies, accessories, and parts ● Replace the toner cartridges For more information: The following information is correct at the time of publication. For current information, see www.hp.com/ support/ljM253.
Order supplies, accessories, and parts Ordering Order supplies and paper www.hp.com/go/suresupply Order genuine HP parts or accessories www.hp.com/buy/parts Order through service or support providers Contact an HP-authorized service or support provider. Order using the HP Embedded Web Server (EWS) To access, in a supported Web browser on the computer, enter the printer IP address or host name in the address/URL field.
Item Description Cartridge number Part number HP 203X High Yield Yellow Original LaserJet Toner Cartridge High-capacity replacement yellow toner cartridge 203X CF542X HP 203A Magenta Original LaserJet Toner Cartridge Standard-capacity replacement magenta toner cartridge 203A CF543A HP 203X High Yield Magenta Original LaserJet Toner Cartridge High-capacity replacement magenta toner cartridge 203X CF543X Customer self-repair parts Customer Self-Repair (CSR) parts are available for many HP Lase
Replace the toner cartridges Introduction This printer indicates when the toner cartridge level is low. The actual toner cartridge life remaining can vary. Consider having a replacement cartridge available to install when print quality is no longer acceptable. To purchase cartridges or check cartridge compatibility for the printer, go to HP SureSupply at www.hp.com/go/ suresupply. Scroll to the bottom of the page and verify that the country/region is correct.
Item Description Cartridge number Part number HP 203A Magenta Original LaserJet Toner Cartridge Standard-capacity replacement magenta toner cartridge 203A CF543A HP 203X High Yield Magenta Original LaserJet Toner Cartridge High-capacity replacement magenta toner cartridge 203X CF543X NOTE: High-yield toner cartridges contain more toner than standard cartridges for increased page yield. For more information, go to www.hp.com/go/learnaboutsupplies.
Remove and replace the toner cartridges 32 1. Open the front door. 2. Grasp the blue handle on the toner cartridge drawer, and then pull out the drawer. 3. Grasp the handle on the toner cartridge, and then pull the toner cartridge straight up to remove it.
4. Remove the new toner cartridge package from the box, and then pull the release tab on the packaging. 5. Remove the toner cartridge from the opened packaging shell. Save all packaging for recycling the used toner cartridge. NOTE: Avoid touching the green imaging drum. Fingerprints on the imaging drum can cause print defects. 6. Gently rock the toner cartridge from front to back to distribute the toner evenly inside the cartridge.
7. Install the new toner cartridge. Make sure that the color chip on the cartridge matches the color chip on the drawer. NOTE: Avoid touching the green imaging drum. Fingerprints on the imaging drum can cause print defects. 34 8. Close the toner cartridge drawer. 9. Close the front door.
4 Print ● Print tasks (Windows) ● Print tasks (OS X) ● Mobile printing ● Use walk-up USB printing (touchscreen models only) For more information: The following information is correct at the time of publication. For current information, see www.hp.com/ support/ljM253.
Print tasks (Windows) How to print (Windows) The following procedure describes the basic printing process for Windows. 1. From the software program, select the Print option. 2. Select the printer from the list of printers. To change settings, click the Properties or Preferences button to open the print driver. NOTE: The name of the button varies for different software programs. NOTE: In Windows 10, 8.
3. Click the Finishing tab. 4. Select Print on both sides. Click OK to close the Document Properties dialog. 5. In the Print dialog, click Print to print the job. Manually print on both sides (Windows) Use this procedure for printers that do not have an automatic duplexer installed or to print on paper that the duplexer does not support. 1. From the software program, select the Print option. 2.
3. Click the Finishing tab. 4. Select the number of pages per sheet from the Pages per sheet drop-down. 5. Select the correct Print page borders, Page order, and Orientation options. Click OK to close the Document Properties dialog. 6. In the Print dialog, click Print to print the job. Select the paper type (Windows) 1. From the software program, select the Print option. 2.
Print tasks (OS X) How to print (OS X) The following procedure describes the basic printing process for OS X. 1. Click the File menu, and then click the Print option. 2. Select the printer. 3. Click Show Details or Copies & Pages, and then select other menus to adjust the print settings. NOTE: 4. The name of the item varies for different software programs. Click the Print button. Automatically print on both sides (OS X) NOTE: This information applies to printers that include an automatic duplexer.
Print multiple pages per sheet (OS X) 1. Click the File menu, and then click the Print option. 2. Select the printer. 3. Click Show Details or Copies & Pages, and then click the Layout menu. NOTE: The name of the item varies for different software programs. 4. From the Pages per Sheet drop-down list, select the number of pages that you want to print on each sheet. 5. In the Layout Direction area, select the order and placement of the pages on the sheet. 6.
Mobile printing Introduction HP offers multiple mobile and ePrint solutions to enable easy printing to an HP printer from a laptop, tablet, smartphone, or other mobile device. To see the full list and to determine the best choice, go to www.hp.com/go/ LaserJetMobilePrinting. NOTE: Update the printer firmware to ensure all mobile printing and ePrint capabilities are supported.
2-line control panels: 1. On the printer control panel, press the OK button. 2. Open the following menus: 3. ● Network Setup ● Wi-Fi Direct ● Connection Method Choose one of the following connection methods: ● Automatic: Choosing this option sets the password to 12345678. ● Manual: Choosing this option generates a secure, randomly generated password. 4. On the mobile device, open the Wi-Fi or Wi-Fi Direct menu. 5. From the list of available networks, select the printer name.
5. From the list of available networks, select the printer name. NOTE: If the printer name does not display, you might be out of range of the Wi-Fi Direct signal. Move the device closer to the printer. 6. If prompted, enter the Wi-Fi Direct password, or select OK on the printer control panel. NOTE: For Android devices that support Wi-Fi Direct, if the connection method is set to Automatic, the connection will occur automatically, without a password prompt.
1 2-line control panel 2 Touchscreen control panel 1. 2-line control panels: On the printer control panel, press the OK button, and then open the Network Setup menu. Touchscreen control panels: From the Home screen on the printer control panel, select the Connection button. Information 2. Open the following menus: 3. ● Wi-Fi Direct ● Settings (touchscreen control panels only) ● On/Off Touch the On menu item. Touching the Off button disables Wi-Fi Direct printing.
1. 2-line control panels: On the printer control panel, press the OK button. Open the Network Setup menu, select Show IP Address, and then select Yes. Return to the Home screen to view the IP address. Touchscreen control panels: From the Home screen on the printer control panel, touch the Connection Information button, and then touch the Network Connected button or the Network Wi-Fi ON 2. button to display the IP address or host name.
HP ePrint via email Use HP ePrint to print documents by sending them as an email attachment to the printer's email address from any email-enabled device. To use HP ePrint, the printer must meet these requirements: ● The printer must be connected to a wired or wireless network and have Internet access. ● HP Web Services must be enabled on the printer, and the printer must be registered with HP Connected.
Touchscreen control panels: 1. From the Home screen on the printer control panel, touch the Connection Information button. 2. 3. Open the following menus: ○ HP ePrint ○ Settings ○ Enable Web Services Touch the Print button to read the terms of use agreement. Touch the OK button to accept the terms of use and enable HP Web Services The printer enables Web Services, and then prints an information page.
AirPrint Direct printing using Apple’s AirPrint is supported for iOS and from Mac computers running OS X 10.7 Lion and newer. Use AirPrint to print directly to the printer from an iPad, iPhone (3GS or later), or iPod touch (third generation or later) in the following mobile applications: ● Mail ● Photos ● Safari ● iBooks ● Select third-party applications To use AirPrint, the printer must be connected to the same network (sub-net) as the Apple device.
Use walk-up USB printing (touchscreen models only) Introduction This printer features walk-up USB printing, for quickly printing files without sending them from a computer. The printer accepts standard USB flash drives in the USB port. It supports the following types of files: ● .pdf ● .jpg ● .prn and .PRN ● .cht and .CHT ● .pxl ● .pcl and .PCL ● .ps and .PS Step one: Access USB files on the printer 1. Insert the USB flash drive into the walk-up USB port on the printer. 2.
Option two: Print photos 50 1. To print photos, select View and Print Photos. 2. Select the preview image of each photo to be printed, and then select Done. 3. When the summary screen opens, the following settings can be adjusted: ● Image Size ● Paper Size ● Paper Type ● Number of Copies ● Output Color (color printers only) ● Lighter/Darker 4. Select Print to print the photos. 5. Retrieve the printed job from the output bin, and remove the USB flash drive.
5 Manage the printer ● Use HP Web Services applications (touchscreen models only) ● Change the printer connection type (Windows) ● Advanced configuration with HP Embedded Web Server (EWS) and HP Device Toolbox (Windows) ● Configure IP network settings ● Printer security features ● Energy-conservation settings ● HP Web Jetadmin ● Update the firmware For more information: The following information is correct at the time of publication. For current information, see www.hp.com/ support/ljM253.
Use HP Web Services applications (touchscreen models only) HP Web Services applications provide useful content that can be automatically downloaded from the Internet to the printer. Choose from a variety of applications including news, calendars, forms, and cloud-based document storage. To activate these applications and schedule the downloads, go to the HP Connected website at www.hpconnected.
Change the printer connection type (Windows) If you are already using the printer and you wish to change the way it is connected, use Device Setup & Software to change the connection. For example, connect the new printer to the computer using a USB or network connection, or change the connection from a USB to a wireless connection. To open Device Setup & Software, complete the following procedure: 1. 2. ENWW Open the HP Printer Assistant.
Advanced configuration with HP Embedded Web Server (EWS) and HP Device Toolbox (Windows) Use the HP Embedded Web Server to manage printing functions from your computer instead of the printer control panel.
1 2 1 2-line control panel 2 Touchscreen control panel 1. 2-line control panels: On the printer control panel, press the OK button. Open the Network Setup menu, select Show IP Address, and then select Yes. Return to the Home screen to view the IP address. Touchscreen control panels: From the Home screen on the printer control panel, touch the Connection Information button, and then touch the Network Connected button or the Network Wi-Fi ON 2. button to display the IP address or host name.
Tab or section Description System tab ● Device Information: Provides basic printer and company information. Provides the ability to configure the printer from your computer. ● Paper Setup: Change the default paper-handling settings for the printer. ● Print Quality: Change the default print-quality settings for the printer. ● Energy Settings: Change the default times for entering Sleep/Auto Off mode or automatic shut down.
Configure IP network settings ● Introduction ● Printer sharing disclaimer ● View or change network settings ● Rename the printer on a network ● Manually configure IPv4 TCP/IP parameters from the control panel Introduction Use the following sections to configure the printer network settings. Printer sharing disclaimer HP does not support peer-to-peer networking, as the feature is a function of Microsoft operating systems and not of the HP printer drivers. Go to Microsoft at www.microsoft.com.
b. Open a web browser, and in the address line, type the IP address or host name exactly as it displays on the printer control panel. Press the Enter key on the computer keyboard. The EWS opens. NOTE: If the web browser displays a message indicating that accessing the website might not be safe, select the option to continue to the website. Accessing this website will not harm the computer. 2. Click the Networking tab to obtain network information. Change settings as needed.
3. On the Device Information page, the default printer name is in the Device Description field. You can change this name to uniquely identify this printer. NOTE: 4. Completing the other fields on this page is optional. Click the Apply button to save the changes. Manually configure IPv4 TCP/IP parameters from the control panel Use the control-panel menus to manually set an IPv4 address, subnet mask, and default gateway. NOTE: The steps vary according to the type of control panel.
60 5. Use the keypad on the touchscreen to enter the subnet mask, and touch the OK button. Touch the Yes button to confirm. 6. Use the keypad on the touchscreen to enter the default gateway, and touch the OK button. Touch the Yes button to confirm.
Printer security features Introduction The printer includes several security features to restrict who has access to configuration settings, to secure data, and to prevent access to valuable hardware components. Assign or change the system password using the HP Embedded Web Server ● Assign or change the system password using the HP Embedded Web Server Assign an administrator password for access to the printer and the HP Embedded Web Server so that unauthorized users cannot change the printer settings.
4. Re-enter the password in the Confirm Password field. 5. Click the Apply button. NOTE: 62 Make note of the password and store it in a safe place.
Energy-conservation settings ● Introduction ● Print with EconoMode ● Set the Sleep/Auto Off After Inactivity setting ● Set the Shut Down After Inactivity delay and configure the printer to use 1 watt or less of power ● Set the Delay Shut Down setting Introduction The printer includes several economy features to conserve energy and supplies. Print with EconoMode This printer has an EconoMode option for printing drafts of documents. Using EconoMode can use less toner.
1 2-line control panel 2 Touchscreen control panel 1. 2-line control panels: On the printer control panel, press the OK button. Touchscreen control panels: From the Home screen on the printer control panel, swipe until the Setup menu displays. Touch the Setup icon to open the menu. 2. Open the following menus: 3. ● System Setup ● Energy Settings ● Sleep/Auto Off After 2-line control panels: Use the arrow keys to select the time for the Sleep/Auto Off delay, and then press the OK button.
1. 2-line control panels: On the printer control panel, press the OK button. Touchscreen control panels: From the Home screen on the printer control panel, swipe until the Setup menu displays. Touch the Setup icon to open the menu. 2. Open the following menus: 3. ● System Setup ● Energy Settings ● Shut Down After Select the time for the Shut Down After delay. NOTE: The default value is 4 hours.
3. 66 ● System Setup ● Energy Settings ● Delay Shut Down Select one of the delay options: ● No Delay: The printer shuts down after a period of inactivity determined by the Shut Down After setting. ● When Ports Are Active: When this option is selected the printer will not shut down unless all ports are inactive. An active network link or fax connection will prevent the printer from shutting down.
HP Web Jetadmin HP Web Jetadmin is an award-winning, industry-leading tool for efficiently managing a wide variety of networked HP products, including printers, multifunction printers, and digital senders. This single solution allows you to remotely install, monitor, maintain, troubleshoot, and secure your printing and imaging environment — ultimately increasing business productivity by helping you save time, control costs, and protect your investment.
Update the firmware HP offers periodic product updates, new Web Services apps, and new features to existing Web Services apps. Follow these steps to update the product firmware for a single product. When you update the firmware, Web Service apps will update automatically. There are two supported methods to perform a firmware update on this product. Use only one of the following methods to update the product firmware.
Method two: Update the firmware using the Firmware Update Utility Use these steps to manually download and install the Firmware Update Utility from HP.com. NOTE: This method is the only firmware update option available for products connected to the computer via a USB cable. It also works for products connected to a network. 1. Go to www.hp.
70 Chapter 5 Manage the printer ENWW
6 Solve problems ● Customer support ● Control panel help system (touchscreen models only) ● Restore the factory-set defaults ● A “Cartridge is low” or “Cartridge is very low” message displays on the printer control panel ● Printer does not pick up paper or misfeeds ● Clear paper jams ● Improve print quality ● Resolving print quality problems ● Solve wired network problems ● Solve wireless network problems For more information: The following information is correct at the time of publica
Customer support Get telephone support for your country/region Have the printer name, serial number, date of purchase, and problem description ready 72 Country/region phone numbers are on the flyer that was in the box with the printer or at support.hp.com. Get 24-hour Internet support, and download software utilities and drivers www.hp.com/support/ljM253 Order additional HP service or maintenance agreements www.hp.com/go/carepack Register the printer www.register.hp.
Control panel help system (touchscreen models only) The printer has a built-in Help system that explains how to use each screen. To open the Help system, touch the Help button in the lower-left corner of the screen. For some screens, the Help opens to a global menu where you can search for specific topics. You can browse through the menu structure by touching the buttons in the menu. Some Help screens include animations that guide you through procedures, such as clearing jams.
Restore the factory-set defaults Restoring the factory-set defaults returns all of the printer and network settings to the factory defaults. It will not reset the page count, or tray size. To restore the printer to the factory-default settings, follow these steps. CAUTION: Restoring the factory-set defaults returns all of the settings to the factory defaults, and it also deletes any pages that are stored in the memory. NOTE: The steps vary according to the type of control panel.
A “Cartridge is low” or “Cartridge is very low” message displays on the printer control panel Cartridge is low: The printer indicates when a cartridge level is low. Actual cartridge life remaining may vary. Consider having a replacement available to install when print quality is no longer acceptable. The cartridge does not need to be replaced now. Cartridge is very low: The printer indicates when the cartridge level is very low. Actual cartridge life remaining may vary.
● Select the Continue option to set the printer to alert you that the cartridge is very low, but to continue printing. ● Select the Stop option to set the printer to stop printing until you replace the cartridge. ● Select the Prompt option to set the printer to stop printing and prompt you to replace the cartridge. You can acknowledge the prompt and continue printing. A customer configurable option on this printer is "Prompt to Remind Me in 100 pages, 200 pages, 300 pages, 400 pages, or never.
Printer does not pick up paper or misfeeds Introduction The following solutions can help solve problems if the printer is not picking up paper from the tray or is picking up multiple sheets of paper at one time. Either of these situations can result in paper jams. ● The product does not pick up paper ● The product picks up multiple sheets of paper The product does not pick up paper If the product does not pick up paper from the tray, try these solutions. 1.
Clear paper jams Introduction The following information includes instructions for clearing paper jams from the printer.
Experiencing frequent or recurring paper jams? Follow these steps to solve problems with frequent paper jams. If the first step does not resolve the problem continue with the next step until you have resolved the problem. NOTE: The steps vary according to the type of control panel. 1 2 1 2-line control panel 2 Touchscreen control panel 1. If paper has jammed in the printer, clear the jam and then print a configuration page to test the printer. 2.
c. Select the Cleaning Page option. d. Load plain letter or A4 paper when you are prompted. Wait until the process is complete. Discard the page that prints. 5. Print a configuration page to test the printer. a. 2-line control panels: On the printer control panel, press the OK button. Touchscreen control panels: From the Home screen on the printer control panel, swipe until the Setup menu displays. Touch the Setup icon to open the menu. b. Open the Reports menu. c. Select Configuration Report.
Clear paper jams in the single-sheet slot (Tray 1) Use the following procedure to clear jams in Tray 1. When a jam occurs, the control panel might display a message and an animation that assists in clearing the jam. 1. Pull Tray 2 completely out of the printer. 2. Push down on the single-sheet priority feed slot, and then pull out the feed slot tray. 3. Gently pull any jammed paper straight out of the single-sheet priority feed slot.
82 4. Push the single-sheet priority feed slot tray into the printer. 5. Reinsert and close Tray 2.
Clear paper jams in Tray 2 Use the following procedure to check for paper in all possible jam locations related to Tray 2. When a jam occurs, the control panel might display a message and an animation that assists in clearing the jam. 1. Pull the tray completely out of the printer. 2. Remove any jammed or damaged sheets of paper. 3.
84 4. Remove any jammed or damaged sheets of paper. 5. Push the single-sheet priority feed slot tray into the printer. 6. Reinsert and close Tray 2.
Clear paper jams in the rear door and the fuser area Use the following procedure to clear jams in the rear door and fuser area. When a jam occurs, the control panel might display a message and an animation that assists in clearing the jam CAUTION: The fuser can be hot while the printer is in use. Wait for the fuser to cool before handling it. 1. Open the rear door.
2. Gently pull out any jammed paper from the rollers in the rear door area. CAUTION: The fuser can be hot while the printer is in use. Wait for the fuser to cool before handling it. 3. 86 Close the rear door.
Clear paper jams in the duplexer (duplex models only) Use the following procedure to clear jams in the duplexer. When a jam occurs, the control panel might display a message and an animation that assists in clearing the jam. CAUTION: The fuser can be hot while the printer is in use. Wait for the fuser to cool before handling it. 1. At the rear of the printer, open the duplexer.
2. Remove any jammed or damaged sheets of paper. CAUTION: The fuser can be hot while the printer is in use. Wait for the fuser to cool before handling it. 3. 88 Close the duplexer.
Clear paper jams in the output bin Use the following procedure to check for paper in all possible jam locations related to the output bin. When a jam occurs, the control panel might display a message and an animation that assists in clearing the jam CAUTION: The fuser can be hot while the printer is in use. Wait for the fuser to cool before handling it. 1. Open the rear door. 2. If paper is visible in the output bin, grasp the leading edge and remove it.
3. Gently remove any jammed paper from the rollers in the rear door area. CAUTION: The fuser can be hot while the printer is in use. Wait for the fuser to cool before handling it. 4. 90 Close the rear door.
Improve print quality ● Introduction ● Update the printer firmware ● Print from a different software program ● Check the paper-type setting for the print job ● Check toner-cartridge status ● Print a cleaning page ● Visually inspect the toner cartridge or cartridges ● Check paper and the printing environment ● Try a different print driver ● Check the EconoMode settings ● Adjust Print Density ● Calibrate the printer to align the colors ● Adjust color settings (Windows) ● Print and i
Update the printer firmware Try upgrading the printer firmware. For more information, see the Update the firmware section of this User Guide. Print from a different software program Try printing from a different software program. If the page prints correctly, the problem is with the software program from which you were printing.
Check toner-cartridge status Follow these steps to check the estimated life remaining in the toner cartridges and if applicable, the status of other replaceable maintenance parts. Step one: Print the supplies status page NOTE: The steps vary according to the type of control panel. 1 2 1 2-line control panel 2 Touchscreen control panel 1. 2-line control panels: On the printer control panel, press the OK button.
If you determine that you need to replace a toner cartridge or other replaceable maintenance parts, the supplies status page lists the genuine HP part numbers. 2. Check to see if you are using a genuine HP cartridge. A genuine HP toner cartridge has “HP” on it, or has the HP logo on it. For more information on identifying HP cartridges go to www.hp.com/go/learnaboutsupplies.
Visually inspect the toner cartridge or cartridges Follow these steps to inspect each toner cartridge. 1. Remove the toner cartridges from the printer, and verify that the sealing tape has been removed. 2. Check the memory chip for damage. 3. Examine the surface of the green imaging drum. CAUTION: Do not touch the imaging drum. Fingerprints on the imaging drum can cause print-quality problems. 4. If you see any scratches, fingerprints, or other damage on the imaging drum, replace the toner cartridge.
Step three: Set the individual tray alignment Follow these steps when text or images are not centered or aligned correctly on the printed page when printing from specific trays. NOTE: The steps vary according to the type of control panel. 1 2 1 2-line control panel 2 Touchscreen control panel 1. 2-line control panels: On the printer control panel, press the OK button. Touchscreen control panels: From the Home screen on the printer control panel, swipe until the Setup menu displays.
Try a different print driver Try a different print driver when printing from a software program and the printed pages have unexpected lines in graphics, missing text, missing graphics, incorrect formatting, or substituted fonts. Download any of the following drivers from the HP Web site: www.hp.com/support/ljM253. HP PCL.6 driver If available, this printer-specific print driver supports older operating systems like Windows® XP and Windows Vista®. For a list of supported operating systems, go to www.hp.
Check the EconoMode settings HP does not recommend the full-time use of EconoMode. If EconoMode is used full-time, the toner supply might outlast the mechanical parts in the toner cartridge. If print quality begins to degrade and is no longer acceptable, consider replacing the toner cartridge. NOTE: This feature is available with the PCL 6 print driver for Windows. If you are not using that driver, you can enable the feature by using the HP Embedded Web Server.
a. 2-line control panels: On the printer control panel, press the OK button. Open the Network Setup menu, select Show IP Address, and then select Yes. Return to the Home screen to view the IP address. Touchscreen control panels: From the Home screen on the printer control panel, swipe until the Setup menu displays. touch the Connection Information button, and then touch the Network Connected b. button or the Network Wi-Fi ON button to display the IP address or host name.
● System Setup ● Print Quality ● Color Calibration ● Calibrate Now 3. 2-line control panels only: Select OK to start the calibration process. 4. A Calibrating message will display on the printer control panel. The calibration process takes a few minutes to complete. Do not turn the printer off until the calibration process has finished. Wait while the printer calibrates, and then try printing again.
1. 2-line control panels: On the printer control panel, press the OK button. Touchscreen control panels: From the Home screen on the printer control panel, swipe until the Setup menu displays. Touch the Setup icon to open the menu. 2. Select the Reports menu. 3. Select the Print Quality Page item. This page contains five bands of color, which are divided into four groups as indicated in the following illustration. By examining each group, you can isolate the problem to a particular toner cartridge.
Resolving print quality problems ● Introduction ● Troubleshoot print quality problems Introduction The following information provides troubleshooting steps for solving image defect issues, including the following defects: ● Light print ● Gray background or dark print ● Blank pages ● Black pages ● Dark or light bands ● Dark or light streaks ● Missing toner ● Skewed images ● Colors that do not align ● Curled paper Troubleshoot print quality problems Table 6-1 Image defects table quick
Table 6-1 Image defects table quick reference (continued) Table 6-5 Black page on page 106 Table 6-6 Banding defects on page 106 Table 6-7 Streak defects on page 107 Table 6-8 Fixing/fuser defects on page 108 Table 6-9 Image placement defects on page 108 Table 6-10 Color plane registrations defects (color models only) on page 109 Table 6-11 Output defects on page 109 Image defects, no matter the cause, can often be resolved using the same steps.
1. Reprint the document. Print quality defects can be intermittent in nature or can go away completely with continued printing. 2. Check the condition of the cartridge or cartridges. If a cartridge is in a Very Low state (it has passed the rated life), replace the cartridge. 3. Make sure that the driver and tray print mode settings match the media that is loaded in the tray. Try using a different ream of media or a different tray. Try using a different print mode. 4.
Table 6-3 Gray background or dark print Description Sample Gray background or dark print: Possible solutions 1. Make sure that the paper in the trays has not already been run through the printer. 2. Use a different paper type. 3. Reprint the document. 4. Mono models only: From the Home screen on the printer control panel, go to the Adjust Toner Density menu, and then adjust the toner density to a lower level. 5.
Table 6-5 Black page Description Sample Black page: The entire printed page is black. Possible solutions 1. Visually inspect the cartridge to check for damage. 2. Make sure that the cartridge is installed correctly. 3. Replace the cartridge 4. If the problem persists, go to support.hp.com. Table 6-6 Banding defects Description Repetitive wide-pitch banding and Impulse bands: Dark or light lines which repeat down the length of the page. They might be sharp or soft in nature.
Table 6-7 Streak defects Description Sample Possible solutions Light vertical streaks: 1. Reprint the document. Light streaks that usually span the length of the page. The defect displays only in areas of fill, not in text or sections with no printed content. 2. Remove the cartridge, and then shake it to redistribute the toner. 3. If the problem persists, go to support.hp.com.
Table 6-8 Fixing/fuser defects Description Fixing/fuser Possible solutions Hot fuser offset (shadow): 1. Reprint the document. Slight shadows, or offsets, of the image repeated down the page. The repeated image might fade with each recurrence. 2. Check the paper type in the paper tray and adjust the printer settings to match. If necessary, select a lighter paper type. 3. If the problem persists, go to support.hp.com. Poor fusing: 1. Reprint the document.
Table 6-10 Color plane registrations defects (color models only) Description Sample Possible solutions Color plane registrations: 1. Reprint the document. One or more color of the planes is not aligned with the other color planes. The primary error will typically occur with yellow. 2. From the printer control panel, calibrate the printer. 3. If a cartridge has reached a Very Low state or the printed output is severely faded, replace the cartridge. 4.
Solve wired network problems Introduction Certain types of problems can indicate there is a network communication problem. These problems include the following issues: ● The periodic loss of ability to communicate with the printer ● The printer cannot be found during driver installation ● A periodic failure to print NOTE: If you have been experiencing intermittent loss of network productivity, first update the printer firmware.
● For Windows, click Start, click Run, type cmd, and then press Enter. ● For OS X, go to Applications, then Utilities, and open Terminal. b. Type ping followed by the IP address for your printer. c. If the window displays round-trip times, the network is working. 2. If the ping command failed, verify that the network hubs are on, and then verify that the network settings, the printer, and the computer are all configured for the same network (also known as subnet). 3.
Solve wireless network problems ● Introduction ● Wireless connectivity checklist ● The printer does not print after the wireless configuration completes ● The printer does not print, and the computer has a third-party firewall installed ● The wireless connection does not work after moving the wireless router or printer ● Cannot connect more computers to the wireless printer ● The wireless printer loses communication when connected to a VPN ● The network does not appear in the wireless network
● Verify that the printer is located away from electronic devices that might interfere with the wireless signal. Many devices can interfere with the wireless signal including motors, cordless phones, security system cameras, other wireless networks, and some Bluetooth devices. ● Verify that the print driver is installed on the computer. ● Verify that you have selected the correct printer port. ● Verify that the computer and printer connect to the same wireless network.
5. Make sure that the wireless network is working correctly. 6. Make sure that your computer is working correctly. If necessary, restart the computer. The wireless printer loses communication when connected to a VPN ● Typically, you cannot connect to a VPN and other networks at the same time. The network does not appear in the wireless networks list ● Make sure the wireless router is turned on and has power. ● The network might be hidden. However, you can still connect to a hidden network.
1 2 1 2-line control panel 2 Touchscreen control panel 2-line control panels 1. On the printer control panel, press the OK button. 2. Open the following menus: 3. ● Self Diagnostics ● Run Wireless Test Press the OK button to start the test. The printer prints a test page that shows test results. Touchscreen control panels 1. From the Home screen on the printer control panel, swipe until the Setup menu displays. Touch the Setup icon to open the menu. 2.
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Index A accessories ordering 28 part numbers 28 acoustic specifications 13 AirPrint 48 Android devices printing from 48 applications downloading 52 Apps menu 52 B bins, output locating 2 browser requirements HP Embedded Web Server 54 C calibrate colors 99 cartridge replacing 30 checklist wireless connectivity 112 cleaning paper path 94 color options changing, Windows 100 color theme changing, Windows 100 colors calibrate 99 control panel help 73 locating 2 control panel buttons locating 6 covers, locating
L label orientation 25 labels printing on 25 labels, loading 25 loading paper in Tray 1 16 paper in Tray 2 19 ordering supplies and accessories 28 OS (operating system) supported 9 output bin clear jams 89 locating 2 M Main input tray loading envelopes 23 loading labels 25 maintenance kits part numbers 29 manual duplex Mac 39 Windows 37 memory included 9 memory chip (toner) locating 30 mobile printing Android devices 48 mobile printing solutions 9 mobile printing, software supported 11 multiple pages per
system requirements HP Embedded Web Server 54 minimum 11 T technical support online 72 toner cartridge low threshold settings 75 part numbers 29 using when low 75 toner cartridges components 30 part numbers 28 replacing 30 Tray 1 jams 81 loading 16 paper orientation 18 Tray 2 jams 83 loading 19 paper orientation 21 trays capacity 9 included 9 locating 2 troubleshooting check toner-cartridge status network problems 110 paper feed problems 77 wired network 110 wireless network 112 two-sided printing settings
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