If you have bought a Hewlett Packard (HP) printer to use alongside your Dell computer, you will need to follow a few simple steps to set them up to work together. Both brands have a long history of producing quality technology so the process of getting them started is usually simple and straightforward.

How to set up your computer and printer

The first thing you need to do is get both machines started. Power on your Dell computer and HP printer. You can tell if they’re working by looking for small lights or a flashing display on the front of the equipment.

The next step is to give the computer and printer the ability to communicate with each other. This is usually done with a software programme, or driver, that you need to install on your computer.

If you have an HP installation CD disk, then this is easy. Simply insert the disk into the CD drive of your computer (usually on the front and marked with the CD symbol) then follow the instructions that appear on the screen.

What to do if you do not have the installation disk

There are two ways to alert the computer to the presence of the printer if you do not have the disk. The first is to search for a folder called “Support and Drivers” on your computer. You can do this in the “Search” box that appears in the menu, or “Start” button in the bottom left-hand corner of the computer screen.

When the correct folder is located, open it and choose the “Start Detection” button. This forces your Dell computer to look for compatible printers it can connect to either using an already-connected cable or via a wireless internet signal.

How to find the printer you want to install

You might find that when you plug a printer into your computer the system will automatically find and install the printer programme. You will know if this has happened because information boxes will appear on the screen asking you if you are happy to connect the equipment. You should click yes.

You can then check if everything is working by printing a test page. This can be any document you are interested in. If the test page does not print, then the first place to look is the “Printers and Other Hardware” folder in the Control Panel of the Start menu. Here you can see a small icon with the name of your printer.

Beneath this picture, it will say if the printer is online or offline. If you are having problems printing, then right-click with the mouse on the small printer icon and choose “troubleshoot.” This will prompt the computer to make some suggestions on solving your issue.

Invest in new Dell and HP equipment today

At ITC Sales, we are a Dell registered partner, supplying a comprehensive range of new and refurbished computers and printers. If you’d like more support or to order a new Dell computer or HP printer, browse online or contact us today.