What To Know
- Simply connect one end of the cable to the printer’s USB port and the other end to a USB port on your computer.
- You can usually find the network name (SSID) and password on the printer’s control panel or in the printer’s user manual.
- Look for an option to print a test page or a “Properties” button where you can find the test page option.
Are you struggling to set up your new HP DeskJet Ink Advantage 2135 printer because you don’t have the installation CD? Don’t worry! This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process of installing your printer without relying on a physical disc. We’ll cover everything from connecting your printer to your computer to troubleshooting common issues.
Why You Don’t Need a CD for Installation
Modern printers, like the HP DeskJet Ink Advantage 2135, are designed to be incredibly user-friendly. They no longer require a CD for installation. The setup process is streamlined and can be completed entirely through your computer’s web browser or directly from the printer’s control panel.
Connecting Your Printer
The first step is to physically connect your printer to your computer. There are two common methods:
- USB Connection: The most straightforward option is to connect your printer to your computer using a USB cable. Most HP DeskJet Ink Advantage 2135 printers come with a USB cable in the box. Simply connect one end of the cable to the printer’s USB port and the other end to a USB port on your computer.
- Wireless Connection: For a more flexible setup, you can connect your printer wirelessly. This requires your computer and printer to be on the same Wi-Fi network. To connect wirelessly, follow these steps:
1. Turn on your printer: Make sure your printer is powered on.
2. Connect to the printer’s Wi-Fi network: Most HP printers have a built-in Wi-Fi network that your computer can connect to during the setup process. You can usually find the network name (SSID) and password on the printer’s control panel or in the printer’s user manual.
3. Follow the on-screen prompts: Once your computer is connected to the printer’s Wi-Fi network, you can proceed with the installation process.
Downloading the Printer Driver
Once your printer is connected, you need to download the necessary printer driver. The driver is a software program that allows your computer to communicate with the printer. Here’s how to download the driver:
1. Visit the HP website: Open your web browser and go to the HP website (www.hp.com).
2. Navigate to the support section: Look for a “Support” or “Drivers and Downloads” section on the HP website.
3. Enter your printer model: In the search bar, enter “HP DeskJet Ink Advantage 2135″ or your specific printer model.
4. Select your operating system: Choose the operating system you are using (Windows, macOS, etc.).
5. Download the driver: Click on the “Download” button to download the printer driver.
Installing the Printer Driver
After downloading the driver, follow these steps to install it:
1. Run the driver file: Double-click the downloaded driver file to start the installation process.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions: The installation wizard will guide you through the setup. You may need to accept the license agreement and choose your installation options.
3. Connect to your printer: The installation wizard will prompt you to connect your printer to your computer, if you haven’t already.
4. Complete the installation: Once the installation is complete, your printer should be ready to use.
Testing Your Printer
After installing the driver, it’s essential to test your printer to ensure it’s working correctly. Try printing a test page:
1. Open the printer settings: Go to your computer’s “Settings” or “Control Panel” and locate the printer settings.
2. Select your printer: Choose the HP DeskJet Ink Advantage 2135 printer from the list of available printers.
3. Print a test page: Look for an option to print a test page or a “Properties” button where you can find the test page option.
If the test page prints successfully, your printer is installed and ready to use.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you encounter problems during the installation process, here are some common troubleshooting tips:
- Check your internet connection: Ensure your computer and printer are connected to the internet, especially if you’re setting up a wireless connection.
- Restart your computer and printer: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve connection issues.
- Update your printer driver: An outdated driver can cause problems. Check for the latest driver on the HP website.
- Uninstall and reinstall the driver: If the driver is corrupted, try uninstalling it and reinstalling it.
- Contact HP support: If you’re unable to resolve the issue, contact HP support for assistance.
Beyond the Basics: Optimizing Your Printing Experience
Once your printer is installed, you can optimize your printing experience by exploring these features:
- Print settings: Experiment with different print settings, such as print quality, paper type, and color mode, to achieve the best results for your specific needs.
- Printer maintenance: Regularly clean the printer’s printheads and rollers to maintain optimal print quality. You can also check the ink levels and replace empty cartridges.
- Wireless connectivity: If you’re using a wireless connection, ensure your printer is connected to the correct network and that the signal strength is strong.
Printer Installation Success: A New Era of Printing
Congratulations! You’ve successfully installed your HP DeskJet Ink Advantage 2135 printer without a CD. Now you can enjoy the convenience and versatility of printing from your computer, smartphone, or tablet.
Common Questions and Answers
Q1: Can I install the printer driver using a USB connection even if I want to use the printer wirelessly later?
A1: Yes, you can. The driver installation process can be started using a USB connection, even if you plan to use the printer wirelessly. Once the driver is installed, you can then connect your printer to your Wi-Fi network.
Q2: What if I don’t have access to the internet to download the printer driver?
A2: If you lack internet access, you can try downloading the driver on another computer and transferring it to your computer using a USB drive. Alternatively, you might be able to find the driver on a CD or DVD that came with another HP printer.
Q3: Can I use the printer’s control panel to connect to my Wi-Fi network?
A3: Yes, you can usually connect to your Wi-Fi network directly from the printer’s control panel. The printer’s display will guide you through the steps.
Q4: How do I know if my printer is connected to my computer?
A4: You can check if your printer is connected by looking for its icon in your computer’s printer list. You can also print a test page to verify the connection.
Q5: What is the difference between a printer driver and a printer software?
A5: A printer driver is a core component that allows your computer to communicate with the printer. Printer software, on the other hand, often includes additional features like scanning, faxing, and printing management tools. The driver is essential for basic printing functionality, while the software provides extra features and enhancements.
