What To Know
- Ever sent a print job to your HP printer only to realize it was the wrong document, or maybe you just changed your mind.
- If your HP printer has a “Stop” button, you can use it to cancel a print job in progress.
- If you’re printing from a web browser, you can often cancel the print job directly from the browser window.
Ever sent a print job to your HP printer only to realize it was the wrong document, or maybe you just changed your mind? Don’t worry, cancelling a print job on your HP printer is a simple process. This guide will walk you through different methods to stop those unwanted printouts in their tracks, saving you paper, ink, and frustration.
The Basics: Cancelling from Your Computer
The easiest way to cancel a print job is directly from your computer. Here’s how:
- Windows:
- Open your Print Queue by searching for “Printers” in the Windows search bar.
- Locate your HP printer and right-click on the print job you want to cancel.
- Select Cancel.
- Mac:
- Open System Preferences and click on **Printers & Scanners**.
- Select your HP printer and click on the Print Queue tab.
- Right-click on the print job you want to cancel and choose Cancel.
The Printer Panel: A Quick Fix
Many HP printers have a control panel with buttons that allow you to manage print jobs directly. Here’s how to cancel a print job using the printer panel:
- Locate the “Cancel” Button: Most HP printers have a dedicated “Cancel” button, often marked with a circle with a diagonal line through it.
- Press and Hold: Press and hold the “Cancel” button until the print job is cancelled. This might take a few seconds, so be patient.
The Power of the “Stop” Button
If your HP printer has a “Stop” button, you can use it to cancel a print job in progress. This button is usually located next to the “Cancel” button.
- Press the “Stop” Button: Press the “Stop” button once to pause the current print job.
- Cancel the Job: After pausing, you can then press the “Cancel” button to completely stop the print job.
The HP Smart App: Control at Your Fingertips
The HP Smart app offers a convenient way to manage your HP printer, including cancelling print jobs.
- Open the HP Smart App: Download the HP Smart app on your smartphone or tablet and log in to your account.
- Access the Print Queue: Locate the “Print Queue” section within the app.
- Cancel the Job: Tap on the print job you want to cancel and select the “Cancel” option.
When All Else Fails: Restart Your Printer
Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve print job issues.
- Turn Off Your Printer: Power off your HP printer completely.
- Wait: Wait a few minutes before turning it back on.
- Check the Print Queue: Once the printer is back online, check the print queue to see if the job has been cancelled.
Troubleshooting: Why Can’t I Cancel My Print Job?
If you’re struggling to cancel a print job on your HP printer, consider these troubleshooting tips:
- Check for Paper Jams: A paper jam can sometimes prevent a print job from being cancelled. Clear any paper jams before attempting to cancel again.
- Make Sure the Printer is Connected: Ensure your printer is properly connected to your computer or network.
- Update Printer Drivers: Outdated printer drivers can cause various issues, including problems cancelling print jobs. Update your printer drivers to the latest version.
- Restart Your Computer: Sometimes, restarting your computer can resolve software glitches that might be interfering with the cancellation process.
Beyond the Basics: Advanced Cancellation Techniques
For more complex scenarios, try these advanced techniques:
- Cancel the Print Job at the Source: If you’re printing from a web browser, you can often cancel the print job directly from the browser window. Look for a “Cancel” option within the print dialog box.
- Use the Printer’s Built-in Menu: Some HP printers have a built-in menu that allows you to manage print jobs. Check your printer’s manual for instructions on accessing the menu and cancelling print jobs.
A Final Word: Prevention is Key
While cancelling print jobs is a useful skill, preventing unwanted prints in the first place is even better. Here are some tips:
- Double-Check Before Printing: Always double-check the document you’re about to print to avoid sending the wrong information.
- Use Preview Mode: Before printing, use the “Print Preview” feature to ensure the document looks as expected.
- Set Print Defaults: Configure your printer settings to your preferred defaults, such as printing in black and white or using a specific paper size.
What You Need to Know
Q: Why is my HP printer still printing even after I cancelled the job?
A: Sometimes, a print job may take a few moments to completely stop after you cancel it. If the printer continues to print for an extended period, there might be a technical issue. Check for paper jams, restart the printer, or update the printer drivers.
Q: Can I cancel a print job on my HP printer remotely?
A: Yes, you can cancel a print job remotely using the HP Smart app. This app allows you to manage your printer from your smartphone or tablet, even when you’re not physically at the printer.
Q: What happens to a cancelled print job?
A: When you cancel a print job, the printer stops printing the document. The job is removed from the print queue, and the document is not printed. However, if the printer had already started printing, you might have a partially printed document.
Q: My HP printer won‘t cancel a print job, what should I do?
A: If you’re unable to cancel a print job, try restarting your printer and computer. If the problem persists, contact HP support for assistance.
