Hewlett-Packard's C7280 Photosmart printer is part of a new generation of home-use printers that are wirelessly enabled. The advantage of a wireless printer is the ability to send documents, photos or other items to print without tethering the devices together. The computer creates the printable image and transmits it using its wireless card, then transmits it to the printer through the home's wireless router. The printer receives it with its wireless antenna and creates the printed piece. As with any piece of technology, though, problems may arise that require some troubleshooting on the part of the owner.
- Skill level:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
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1
Fix the communications problem. If the computer is tethered by USB cable, first check that the cable is plugged in correctly and the leads are connected. If the C7280 is connected to the PC through a hub, unplug the printer from the hub and plug it directly into the computer. If, at that point, the computer does not recognize the printer, try plugging the cable into a different USB port on the computer. The ultimate problem may be that the cable is defective. HP recommends that any cable in use be no longer than 9.8 feet.
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2
Fix the printing issue. HP only guarantees that the printer will function when genuine HP products are used. Check that the print cartridges in the C7280 are HP brand, and were installed by the "use by" date on the package. If the print quality is poor, check the supply levels on the printer. Press the setup button on the C7280 and, using the up/down arrows, go to "Tools." Press "OK," then go to "Display Ink Gauge" and press "OK." This will display levels of remaining ink for the cartridges. If quality issues or streaking remain, clean the print head. To do this, go back to the printer and press "Setup." Use the arrows to select "Tools" and press "OK." Then move the arrows to "Clean Printhead" and press "OK." This will begin a diagnostic process that will clean the print head, and typically solves the problem. Finally, check the type of paper being used. HP recommends its proprietary photo paper and multi-use paper for the C7280. For regular, day-to-day printing, 20- to 24-pound paper should be used, as it is best for absorbing ink.
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3
Fix a paper jam. Paper jams can be prevented by loading less than 50 pieces into the C7280's paper feeder at once. Paper that is heavier than 24 pounds may also cause jams, as does trying to load the printer while the paper is being fed into the print chamber. To clear a paper jam, turn off the C7280. Then gently pull the paper backward, using very little force. Do not tear the paper while removing it. Once the jam is removed, turn the printer back on.
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4
Fix a wireless-network issue. For the computer and C7280 to recognize the wireless network, the wireless router must broadcast a network name. If the network is not detected as available by the printer or computer, the network name is not broadcast. Access the settings of the wireless router (each router's control panel is opened differently, so consult the instruction manual for your router) and check that the SSID is revealed or being broadcast. If the SSID is broadcast, both the PC and printer will be able to connect or enter the password to permit access.
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5
Fix wireless-signal issues. Print speeds over the wireless network will vary depending on how far the PC is from the printer. The PC should be set up less than 50 feet from the printer to provide for optimal communication. The signal could be interrupted by a number of items. Metal objects, such as stainless-steel appliances or file cabinets, will stop a wireless signal. In addition, cordless phones operating at 2.4 GHz will also interfere with a wireless signal.
