What To Know
- If you frequently use a specific type of paper, like letterheads or envelopes, you can store it in Tray 2 and make it your default, ensuring consistent paper usage.
- By designating Tray 2 as the default, you can keep your main paper tray (Tray 1) stocked with standard paper, while using Tray 2 for specialized printing needs.
- If you prefer a more visual approach, you can use the HP Printer Assistant software to set your default tray.
Tired of manually selecting Tray 2 every time you print? Making Tray 2 the default on your HP LaserJet Pro M402dn printer can save you time and frustration. This guide will walk you through the simple steps to make this change, ensuring your printer prioritizes Tray 2 for all your printing needs.
Understanding Tray Prioritization
Before we dive into the steps, let’s understand how tray prioritization works. Your HP LaserJet Pro M402dn printer has multiple paper trays, and it follows a specific order when choosing which tray to use for printing. By default, the printer typically prioritizes Tray 1, which is the main paper tray. However, you can easily change this order and make Tray 2 the default.
The Benefits of Making Tray 2 Default
Choosing Tray 2 as your default offers several advantages:
- Convenience: You no longer have to manually select Tray 2 every time you print, saving you time and effort.
- Dedicated Paper Source: If you frequently use a specific type of paper, like letterheads or envelopes, you can store it in Tray 2 and make it your default, ensuring consistent paper usage.
- Paper Management: By designating Tray 2 as the default, you can keep your main paper tray (Tray 1) stocked with standard paper, while using Tray 2 for specialized printing needs.
Method 1: Using the Printer Control Panel
The most straightforward way to make Tray 2 the default is through the printer’s control panel. Here’s how:
1. Access the Printer Menu: Press the “Menu” button on your HP LaserJet Pro M402dn printer‘s control panel.
2. Navigate to Paper Settings: Use the navigation buttons to go to the “Paper Setup” or “Paper Handling” menu. The exact menu name may vary slightly depending on your printer’s firmware version.
3. Select Tray 2: Choose the option that allows you to select the default paper tray. This might be labeled as “Default Paper Source” or “Tray Selection“.
4. Set Tray 2 as Default: Use the navigation buttons to highlight Tray 2 and confirm your selection.
5. Exit the Menu: Press the “OK” or “Exit” button to return to the main menu.
Method 2: Using the HP Printer Assistant Software
If you prefer a more visual approach, you can use the HP Printer Assistant software to set your default tray.
1. Open HP Printer Assistant: Ensure that the HP Printer Assistant software is installed on your computer. You can usually find it in your Start menu or Applications folder.
2. Access Printer Settings: Open the “Printer Settings” or “Device Settings” section within the HP Printer Assistant.
3. Locate Paper Settings: Navigate to the “Paper Handling” or “Paper Setup” section.
4. Change Default Tray: Look for the option to change the default paper source or tray selection. Select Tray 2 as your preferred default.
Method 3: Adjusting the Printer Driver Settings
You can also change the default tray through your printer’s driver settings. This method is helpful if you want to set the default tray for specific applications or documents.
1. Open the Printer Properties: Right-click on the HP LaserJet Pro M402dn printer icon in your computer’s list of printers. Select “Printing Preferences” or “Properties” from the context menu.
2. Access Paper Settings: Go to the “Paper/Quality” or “Paper Handling” tab within the printer properties window.
3. Change Default Tray: Look for an option to select the default paper source or tray. Choose Tray 2 as your preferred default.
4. Apply Changes: Click “Apply” or “OK” to save your changes.
Ensuring the Change Takes Effect
After making any of these changes, it’s essential to test your printer to confirm that Tray 2 is now the default. Print a test page or document and observe which tray the printer uses. If Tray 1 is still used, double-check your settings and try again.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you’re still having trouble making Tray 2 the default, try these troubleshooting tips:
- Restart Your Printer: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve minor software glitches.
- Check Paper Levels: Ensure that Tray 2 has enough paper. A low paper level might cause the printer to default to another tray.
- Update Printer Drivers: Outdated drivers can sometimes cause issues. Download and install the latest drivers from HP’s website.
- Reset Printer Settings: If all else fails, try resetting your printer to its factory default settings. This will erase any custom settings you’ve made, but it might resolve the issue.
Final Thoughts: Maximizing Your Printing Efficiency
By making Tray 2 the default on your HP LaserJet Pro M402dn, you streamline your printing process and save time. Remember to choose the method that best suits your needs and preferences. Whether you prefer the control panel, HP Printer Assistant, or printer driver settings, you can easily customize your printer’s behavior to match your printing habits.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Can I change the default tray for specific applications?
A: Yes, you can often adjust the default tray settings within individual applications. For example, in Microsoft Word, you can access the “Page Setup” dialog box and select the desired paper tray.
Q: What if I need to use Tray 1 occasionally?
A: You can always manually select Tray 1 when needed. Simply open the printer driver or control panel and choose Tray 1 as your paper source for that specific print job.
Q: What if my printer doesn‘t have a Tray 2?
A: The steps outlined in this guide are specific to the HP LaserJet Pro M402dn, which has multiple paper trays. If your printer has a different model or fewer trays, the settings and options may vary. Consult your printer’s manual or HP’s website for instructions specific to your model.
