Unlock the Full Potential of Your HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126nw: How to Print Both Sides of Paper

Are you tired of wasting paper and time by printing single-sided documents? The HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126NW offers a convenient way to print both sides of a sheet, saving you money and reducing your environmental impact. This guide will walk you through the simple steps of enabling double-sided printing on your HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126NW.

Understanding the Benefits of Double-Sided Printing

Before diving into the how-to, let’s explore the advantages of printing on both sides of the paper:

• Paper Savings: The most obvious benefit is the reduction in paper consumption. Printing double-sided cuts your paper usage in half, saving you money and reducing waste.
• Environmental Responsibility: By using less paper, you’re contributing to a greener planet. Paper production requires significant resources, so minimizing consumption helps conserve forests and reduce pollution.
• Enhanced Document Organization: Double-sided printing creates a more compact and organized document. This is particularly useful for lengthy reports, presentations, and other multi-page documents.

Method 1: Print Driver Settings

This method is the most direct and offers a high level of control over your printing preferences.
1. Open the Document: Start by opening the document you want to print.
2. Access Print Settings: Click on the “File” menu and select “Print” or use the keyboard shortcut “Ctrl + P” (Windows) or “Command + P” (Mac).
3. Locate the “Printer Properties” Button: Look for a button labeled “Properties,” “Options,” or “Preferences” within the print dialog box. This button typically appears near the bottom of the window.
4. Navigate to Paper/Quality Settings: In the printer properties window, find the “Paper/Quality” or “Finishing” tab.
5. Select “Two-Sided” or “Duplex”: Look for an option labeled “Two-Sided,” “Duplex,” or a similar term. Choose the “Flip on Long Edge” setting for standard documents or “Flip on Short Edge” for printing brochures or booklets.
6. Apply and Print: Click “Apply” to save your settings and then “OK” to close the printer properties window. Now, click “Print” to send your document to the printer.

Method 2: Using the Printer Control Panel

The HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126NW offers a convenient way to enable double-sided printing directly from the printer’s control panel.
1. Prepare Your Document: Load the document you want to print into the printer’s input tray.
2. Access the Control Panel: Locate the control panel on the printer. It usually features a small LCD screen and buttons.
3. Navigate to Print Settings: Use the control panel buttons to navigate to the “Print Settings” or “Setup” menu. You may need to scroll through the options to find the relevant menu.
4. Select “Two-Sided” or “Duplex”: Look for an option labeled “Two-Sided,” “Duplex,” or a similar term. Choose the desired setting based on your document type.
5. Start Printing: Press the “Start” or “Print” button on the control panel to begin printing your document.

Method 3: Using the HP Smart App

The HP Smart app offers a user-friendly interface for managing your printer and configuring print settings.
1. Install HP Smart: Download and install the HP Smart app on your smartphone or tablet. The app is available for both Android and iOS devices.
2. Connect to Your Printer: Open the HP Smart app and follow the on-screen instructions to connect your printer to your device.
3. Open the Document: Select the document you want to print from your device’s gallery or file manager.
4. Access Print Settings: Tap the “Print” icon within the HP Smart app. You’ll see a print preview and options for customizing your print settings.
5. Enable Double-Sided Printing: Look for the “Two-Sided” or “Duplex” option within the print settings and select your preferred setting.
6. Start Printing: Tap “Print” to send your document to the HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126NW.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

While double-sided printing is generally straightforward, you might encounter some issues. Here are some troubleshooting tips:

• Check Paper Type: Ensure you’re using compatible paper for double-sided printing. Some paper types might not be suitable for automatic duplexing.
• Paper Jam: If the printer jams during printing, it could be due to a paper issue. Clear the jam and try printing again.
• Printer Settings: Double-check your printer settings to ensure that double-sided printing is enabled.
• Driver Updates: Outdated printer drivers can sometimes cause printing problems. Check for driver updates on the HP website.
• Restart the Printer: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve minor glitches.

Saving Money and the Environment with Double-Sided Printing

By mastering the art of double-sided printing, you’ll not only save money on paper but also reduce your environmental footprint. These simple steps can make a significant difference in your overall printing efficiency.

Beyond the Basics: Exploring Advanced Print Features

The HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126NW offers a range of advanced print features that can further enhance your printing experience. Explore these features to optimize your printing workflow:

• Print Preview: Use the print preview function to review your document before sending it to the printer. This allows you to make any necessary adjustments to your settings.
• Print Quality: Experiment with different print quality settings to find the optimal balance between speed and image quality.
• Paper Handling: Learn about different paper handling options, such as manual feeding and automatic document feeder (ADF), to maximize your printer’s capabilities.

Final Thoughts: Printing Smarter, Not Harder

With the HP LaserJet Pro MFP M126NW, double-sided printing is a breeze. By utilizing the printer’s built-in features and following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll enjoy a more efficient and eco-friendly printing experience.

What You Need to Know

Q: Can I print double-sided on any type of paper?
A: While most paper types are compatible with double-sided printing, it’s best to check your printer’s manual for specific recommendations. Some paper types, like cardstock or thick paper, might not be suitable for automatic duplexing.
Q: What if my printer doesn‘t have a duplex option?
A: If your printer lacks a built-in duplex feature, you can still print double-sided manually. Simply print the odd-numbered pages, flip the paper stack, and then print the even-numbered pages.
Q: Can I print double-sided from my mobile device?
A: Yes, you can print double-sided from your smartphone or tablet using the HP Smart app. The app allows you to select the “Two-Sided” or “Duplex” option within the print settings.
Q: How do I change the orientation of double-sided printing?
A: Most printers allow you to choose between “Flip on Long Edge” and “Flip on Short Edge” for double-sided printing. The “Flip on Long Edge” setting is suitable for standard documents, while “Flip on Short Edge” is ideal for printing brochures or booklets.