Guide - Install HP Printer

[curtisspendlove]

I recently purchased an HP LaserJet MFP M140w and wanted to configure it on my omarchy rig.

Note: I'm running a Framework 13 AMD AI 340, but I don't think that matters.

To install an HP LaserJet 140w printer on Arch Linux, you'll first need to install CUPS (Common Unix Printing System) and the HP Linux Imaging and Printing (HPLIP) package. Then, you can use hp-setup to configure the printer, potentially needing a driver plugin. Finally, you can use a GUI tool like system-config-printer or the CUPS web interface to add and configure the printer.

This video demonstrates how to set up an HP LaserJet printer on Arch Linux, including installing CUPS and HPLIP:

[video embed]

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

1. Install CUPS and enable the service:

Open a terminal and run: sudo pacman -S cups

Start and enable the CUPS service: sudo systemctl enable --now cups

2. Install HPLIP:

Install the HPLIP package: sudo pacman -S hplip

4. Configure the printer:

Using hp-setup (recommended):
Run: sudo hp-setup -i

Follow the prompts. You'll likely need to enter the printer's IP address or select it from a list if it's on the network.

You may need to install a driver plugin if prompted.

Using system-config-printer (GUI):

Install it: sudo pacman -S system-config-printer

Open it from your application menu (usually under "Settings" or "Printers").

Click "Add" and follow the prompts. Select the printer model and HPLIP as the connection method.

Using the CUPS web interface:

Open a web browser and go to https://localhost:631.

Go to "Administration" and click "Add Printer".

You'll need to log in as root (user: root, password: your root password).

Select your printer from the list and follow the prompts to configure it.

This video provides a step-by-step guide on installing a printer, including selecting the printer model and configuring it in CUPS:

[video embed]

6. Test the printer:

Once configured, try printing a test page to ensure everything is working correctly.
If you have issues, check the CUPS error logs (usually located at /var/log/cups/error_log) for clues.

Consider checking the ArchWiki for printer-specific troubleshooting.

This video demonstrates the final steps of testing the printer and resolving common issues:

[video embed]

Note: I will reformat this guide over time (and update videos when I can), for now I wanted to get it posted.

2025-07-19 - Initial Guide Version

[d0369440-dot]

Great guide—thanks for putting this together!

One additional tip that may help after the printer is configured: before assuming everything is working correctly, it's worth printing a more comprehensive test page instead of the basic CUPS test page.

I've had good results using PrintTestPage.net, which offers downloadable printer test pages for color, black & white, alignment, gradients, and nozzle checks. These are useful for verifying that the printer is producing clean output after installing CUPS and HPLIP, especially if you're troubleshooting print quality rather than just confirming that the printer can print.

It can also help distinguish between a successful driver installation and actual print quality issues, which saves time when diagnosing hardware or toner-related problems.