To reset your HP 402 printer, you can perform either a Factory Reset or a Cold Reset, depending on the issue you're trying to resolve. Both procedures involve interacting with the printer's control panel or power functions, and are applicable to the HP LaserJet Pro M402 and M403 series, including the M402 DW model.
Understanding Printer Resets
Before proceeding, it's helpful to understand the difference between the two main types of resets:
- Factory Reset (Restore Defaults): This comprehensive reset erases all customized settings, including network configurations, security settings, and any stored data, restoring the printer to its original factory specifications. This is often necessary for resolving persistent software glitches, preparing the printer for a new network, or before transferring ownership.
- Cold Reset (Power Cycle): This is a simpler reset that clears the printer's temporary memory (RAM) and reinitializes its internal components. It's useful for resolving minor performance issues, clearing transient error messages, or fixing connectivity problems without losing your saved settings.
Performing a Factory Reset on Your HP LaserJet Pro M402
This process utilizes the printer's control panel to navigate through the settings and restore the device to its default configuration.
Steps via the Control Panel
- Power On: Ensure your HP LaserJet Pro M402 printer is powered on and in a ready state.
- Access Setup Menu: On the printer's control panel, navigate to the
SetuporSettingsmenu. This is typically represented by a gear icon or a menu button. - Find Service/Tools: Scroll through the menu options and locate a section labeled
Service,Tools,Maintenance, orAdministration. - Select Restore Defaults: Within the service menu, look for an option such as
Restore Defaults,Factory Reset,Clear Settings, orReset Printer. - Confirm Action: The printer will likely ask for confirmation before proceeding with the reset. Select
YesorOKto initiate the factory reset. - Restart: The printer will restart automatically once the reset is complete. After restarting, you will need to reconfigure your network settings and any other preferences.
Performing a Cold Reset on Your HP LaserJet Pro M402
A cold reset is a straightforward power cycle that can often resolve minor issues by clearing temporary data and rebooting the printer's internal system.
Steps for a Basic Cold Reset (Power Cycle)
- Turn Off: Press the power button on your HP LaserJet Pro M402 printer to turn it off.
- Unplug Power: Disconnect the printer's power cord directly from the electrical outlet.
- Wait: Allow at least 30 seconds for any residual power to drain from the printer's internal components.
- Plug Back In: Reconnect the power cord securely into the electrical outlet.
- Turn On: Press the power button to turn the printer back on.
When to Reset Your Printer
Here’s a quick guide on which reset type to use for common printer issues:
| Issue | Recommended Reset Type |
|---|---|
| Persistent error messages | Cold Reset, then Factory Reset |
| Network connectivity problems | Cold Reset, then Factory Reset |
| Slow performance or unresponsiveness | Cold Reset |
| Print quality inconsistencies | Cold Reset |
| Forgotten administrator/network password | Factory Reset |
| Preparing printer for new ownership/location | Factory Reset |
| Printer not responding to print jobs | Cold Reset, then Factory Reset |
After performing any reset, especially a Factory Reset, remember to re-establish your printer's network connection and any custom settings you prefer.
