Solved Connecting HP printer works fine, but doesn't give me an icon...

[sunsetlover]

I connected my HP Deskjet 450 and it downloaded the driver, it works fine, BUT it does not give me a notification icon or "safely remove hardware". So when I'm done printing I just disconnect the USB.

ALSO, since it doesn't connect with the HP software, I can't see how much ink is left (!).

Are these two things normal? Anything I can do about them?

Thanks!

 

[tman69]

I connected my HP Deskjet 450 and it downloaded the driver, it works fine, BUT it does not give me a notification icon or "safely remove hardware". So when I'm done printing I just disconnect the USB.

ALSO, since it doesn't connect with the HP software, I can't see how much ink is left (!).

Are these two things normal? Anything I can do about them?

Thanks!

1. if you want the notification icon--you may need to set it in the 'notification area icons' control panel
2. no need to unplug USB--just turn off printer
3. "since it doesn't connect with the HP software"....did you install the HP software? if not see this webpage

HP Printer Installation FAQ | HP Support

follow the steps under 'Where do I get the driver...'--note: you may need to reinstall the driver and software

 

[sunsetlover]

Thanks tman. This is an 8 yr old printer, it's not supported in Win 7. The software and drivers on the HP site are for Win XP.

I'm on the HP forum now, looking for alternate solutions, maybe an alternative printer driver?

 

[DocBrown]

Can you try to install them in compatability mode ? This sometimes works for XP software.

 

[sunsetlover]

Thanks DocBrown,

I found this page on HP support, it basically says the HP Solution Center and Toolbox (the additional software) are not to be expected in Win 7, and offers workarounds.

The Driver for Your Product Is Included in the Windows 7 Operating System | HP® Support