- Category: All-in-One printer (Multifunction)
- Hardware: HP Officejet 5610.
- Software: Scanner and printer drivers.
- Language: Multi-language.
How to Add a USB Printer to Windows Without Installing Additional Drivers
Follow these steps to connect a USB printer in Windows and let the system automatically handle driver installation.
Enable Device Installation Settings:
- Search for Change device installation settings in Windows.
- Ensure that Yes (recommended) is selected, allowing Windows to download manufacturer drivers automatically.
Prepare the Printer and USB Port:
- Ensure an available USB port on your computer (do not use a USB hub or docking station to avoid power issues).
- Turn on the printer and connect the USB cable directly between the printer and your computer.
Check for Automatic Driver Installation:
- If a “Found new hardware” message appears, follow the prompts to install the printer.
- Test the printer by printing a document. If it works, the driver was installed successfully.
Manually Add the Printer (if necessary):
If the printer doesn’t automatically install, follow these steps:
- Search for and open Add a printer or scanner in Windows.
- Click Add a printer or scanner and wait for Windows to detect the printer.
- If your printer appears, click it and select Add device to complete the installation.
Manually Add the Printer (if not found):
- If your printer is not listed, click The printer that I want isn’t listed.
- In the new window, select Add a local printer or network printer with manual settings and click Next.
Configure the Printer Port:
- In the Choose a printer port window, select Use an existing port and choose USB001: (Virtual printer port for USB) from the drop-down menu. Click Next.
Finish Driver Installation:
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation using the driver for your specific printer model.
How to Use Printer Functions with the Built-in Driver
Windows comes with built-in drivers that support most standard printing and scanning functions. Here’s how to use them effectively:
- Scan Documents and Photos: Use a compatible Windows app to perform scan jobs with the built-in driver.
- Windows Fax and Scan: Search for and open “Windows Fax and Scan.” Click on New Scan, then choose your printer.
- Windows Paint: Search for and open “Paint.” Go to File > From scanner or camera to initiate a scan.
- Windows Scan App: Search for and open “Windows Scan.” If you don’t have it installed, download it from the Microsoft Store.
- Print Documents: In most apps, you can print by clicking the menu icon and selecting Print, or by going to File > Print.
- Check Ink Levels: If available, check ink levels on the printer’s control panel. Alternatively, print a self-test page or status report for detailed information.
- Change Print Preferences: To adjust print settings, search for “Printers & Scanners” in Windows. Select your printer, click Manage, then choose Printing Preferences from the sidebar.
This ensures you can manage all your printing and scanning tasks easily with the default Windows drivers.