Tired of manually selecting Tray 2 every time you print on your HP LaserJet? You’re not alone. Many users prefer using Tray 2 for standard printing tasks. Changing the default paper tray from Tray 1 to Tray 2 can save time and reduce frustration.
Setting Tray 2 as the default is simpler than you might think. It involves adjusting your print settings and configuring the paper source on your HP LaserJet printer. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step.
Here’s a quick overview of the default tray options:
| Tray | Paper Capacity | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 100 sheets | Special media |
| 2 | 250-500 sheets | Standard printing |
| 3 | 500+ sheets | High-volume jobs |
Understanding Printer Trays and Settings
HP LaserJet printers have multiple paper trays and settings to manage print jobs efficiently. Knowing how to configure these options helps optimize your printing experience.
Overview of Tray 1 and Tray 2
Tray 1 is usually the priority feed tray on HP LaserJet printers. It sits above the main paper tray and holds a smaller amount of paper. Tray 1 is ideal for specialty media or one-off print jobs.
Tray 2 is the main paper tray. It has a larger capacity and is best for everyday printing needs. Many users prefer to set Tray 2 as the default for convenience.
The printer typically pulls paper from Tray 1 first if it contains paper. If Tray 1 is empty, it will use Tray 2.
Navigating HP LaserJet Printer Settings
To change printer settings, you’ll need to access the printer properties. Here’s how:
- Open a document and click “File” then “Print”
- Select your HP LaserJet printer
- Click “Printer Properties” or “Preferences”
This opens a window with tabs for various settings. Look for options related to paper handling or tray selection.
On some models, you can also change settings directly on the printer’s control panel. The exact steps may vary by model.
Paper Source Configuration
To set your default paper tray:
- Access printer properties
- Find the “Paper Source” or “Paper/Quality” tab
- Choose Tray 2 as the default tray
- Click “Apply” then “OK”
You can also configure tray settings for specific paper types and sizes. This helps the printer use the right tray for each job automatically.
| Setting | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Paper Size | Sets the dimensions of the paper in the tray |
| Paper Type | Tells the printer what kind of media is loaded |
| Default Tray | Chooses which tray to use when not specified |
Remember to update these settings whenever you change the paper in your trays. This ensures the best print quality and prevents paper jams.
Setting Up Tray 2 as the Default
Configuring Tray 2 as the default paper source on your HP LaserJet printer ensures seamless printing from your preferred tray. This process involves adjusting settings in the printer preferences and setup menu.
Accessing the Printer Preferences
To begin, open the printer properties on your computer. Click the Windows Start button and go to Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners. Select your HP LaserJet printer and click “Manage” or “Printer properties.”
In some cases, you may need to access the print dialog box directly from an application. Open a document and choose File > Print. If you see a “Show Details” button, click it to reveal all available options.
Adjusting Paper/Quality Settings
Navigate to the Paper/Quality tab in the printer preferences window. Look for a dropdown menu labeled “Paper source” or “Tray selection.” Choose Tray 2 from the list of available options.
Make sure to set the correct paper size and type for Tray 2. This ensures your printer uses the appropriate settings for your media. Click “Apply” to save these changes.
| Setting | Option |
|---|---|
| Paper Source | Tray 2 |
| Paper Size | Letter/A4/etc. |
| Paper Type | Plain/Glossy/etc. |
Selecting Tray 2 in the Setup Menu
For some HP LaserJet models, you’ll need to adjust settings on the printer itself. Use the control panel to access the Setup or Settings menu. Look for options like “Paper handling” or “Tray configuration.”
Select Tray 2 as the default paper source. You may also find options to set paper size and type for each tray. Ensure these match the settings in your printer preferences on the computer.
After making these changes, Tray 2 should now be your default paper source for all print jobs. Test the configuration by printing a document to confirm it pulls paper from Tray 2.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
When setting Tray 2 as default on your HP LaserJet printer, you may encounter a few obstacles. These issues often stem from mismatched paper settings or incorrect configurations.
Solving Paper Mismatch Errors
Paper mismatch errors can prevent Tray 2 from becoming the default. To fix this:
-
Check paper size and type:
- Verify the paper in Tray 2 matches your printer settings
- Run a configuration page to confirm paper size and type
-
Adjust printer settings:
- Access the printer control panel
- Navigate to paper settings
- Set paper size and type to match Tray 2 contents
-
Update print job settings:
- Open your document’s print dialog
- Select the correct paper size and type
Addressing Print Jobs Not Defaulting to Tray 2
If print jobs still use other trays, try these steps:
-
Check printer driver settings:
- Open printer properties on your computer
- Look for “Paper Source” or “Tray Selection”
- Choose Tray 2 as the default
-
Review application settings:
- In your document’s print dialog
- Find the source settings
- Select Tray 2 as the paper source
-
Reset printer:
- Turn off the printer
- Unplug for 30 seconds
- Reconnect and power on
- Try printing again
If issues persist, contact HP support for further assistance.
Community and Support Resources
HP provides valuable platforms for users to seek help and share knowledge about LaserJet printers. These resources enable quick problem-solving and foster a collaborative environment among printer owners.
Leveraging the HP Forums for Assistance
The HP Support Community forums offer a wealth of information for LaserJet users. You can search existing threads or create new posts about setting Tray 2 as default. Many users have faced similar issues, so you’ll likely find relevant discussions.
To get the best results:
- Use clear titles for your posts
- Describe your printer model and issue in detail
- Include steps you’ve already tried
HP staff and experienced users often respond quickly. They may ask for more details or suggest troubleshooting steps. Follow their advice carefully and report back on the results.
Receiving and Giving Kudos on Accepted Solutions
The HP forums use a kudos system to highlight helpful responses. When you find a solution that works, mark it as the accepted answer and give it kudos. This helps other users find reliable information quickly.
How to give kudos:
- Click the “Give Kudos” button below the helpful post
- Leave a comment explaining how it solved your problem
By contributing your experiences, you help build a stronger knowledge base. Share your own solutions to Tray 2 default issues. Your insights could save time for other LaserJet owners facing similar challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Setting Tray 2 as the default paper source on HP LaserJet printers can streamline your printing process. This guide covers various models and operating systems to help you configure your printer efficiently.
How can I configure my HP LaserJet printer to use Tray 2 as the default paper source?
You can set Tray 2 as the default paper source through your printer’s control panel. Access the tray configuration menu and select Tray 2 as the primary paper source. This change will apply to all print jobs unless specified otherwise.
What steps are necessary to set Tray 2 as the default on an HP LaserJet Pro m402n?
For the HP LaserJet Pro m402n, use the printer’s control panel to navigate to the paper handling settings. Choose Tray 2 as the default paper source. You may need to adjust the paper size and type settings to match the media in Tray 2.
Is there a way to make my HP LaserJet p3015 printer automatically print from Tray 2?
Yes, you can set your HP LaserJet p3015 to print from Tray 2 by default. Access the printer’s menu system and look for tray settings or paper handling options. Select Tray 2 as the primary source for all print jobs.
How do I alter the default paper tray settings in a HP printer on a Windows 10 system?
On Windows 10, you can change the default paper tray through the printer properties. Open the print dialog, click “Printer Properties,” and find the paper source settings. Select Tray 2 as the default and apply the changes.
Can I specify Tray 2 as the default on my HP LaserJet p4015, and if so, how?
You can set Tray 2 as the default on your HP LaserJet p4015. Use the printer’s control panel to navigate to the paper handling or tray configuration menu. Select Tray 2 as the primary paper source for all print jobs.
What is the process for changing the configuration of an HP printer to ensure it always prints from Tray 2?
To ensure your HP printer always uses Tray 2, you’ll need to adjust both printer and software settings. Configure the tray settings on the printer to prioritize Tray 2. Then, update your computer’s printer preferences to match this configuration.
| Setting Location | Steps to Change Default to Tray 2 |
|---|---|
| Printer Control Panel | 1. Access tray configuration menu 2. Select Tray 2 as default 3. Adjust paper size/type if needed |
| Computer (Windows) | 1. Open printer properties 2. Find paper source settings 3. Choose Tray 2 as default 4. Apply changes |
| Print Dialog | 1. Open print dialog 2. Select printer properties 3. Change paper source to Tray 2 4. Save as default if possible |