HP DeskJet 3512 Wireless Setup
The HP DeskJet 3512 is an older home inkjet that supports Wi‑Fi, but setup relies on the correct light pattern and a 2.4 GHz network. If you follow the right sequence—reset wireless settings, pair using WPS or HP software, then install the full driver—the printer stays stable and prints from multiple devices. This guide covers first‑time setup and the most common fixes when the DeskJet 3512 won’t connect.
Confirm Your Network
DeskJet 3512 models use 2.4 GHz Wi‑Fi only. If your router broadcasts a combined 2.4/5 GHz SSID, temporarily split the bands during setup. Have your SSID and password ready, and keep the printer close to the router. Disable VPN on your computer while pairing.
Reset Wireless Settings
If the printer has old Wi‑Fi information stored, clear it first. Press and hold the Wireless button until the wireless light turns off, then release. Press it again until it starts blinking. On some units, you may need to hold Wireless for about 10 seconds to restore network defaults. The blinking wireless light means setup mode.
Method 1: WPS Push‑Button Setup
If your router supports WPS:
- Press and hold the printer’s Wireless button until it blinks.
- Within two minutes, press the router’s WPS button.
- Wait for the wireless light to turn solid.
If WPS fails, your router may have WPS disabled or you may be on a mesh node that doesn’t support it. Use the software method instead.
Method 2: HP Software / HP Smart Setup
Download HP Smart or the DeskJet 3510 series full feature software from HP. Run it and choose Wireless connection. When prompted, connect the printer by USB temporarily so the installer can send Wi‑Fi credentials. After the printer joins Wi‑Fi, unplug USB and finish installation.
Verify the Printer’s IP Address
Print a network configuration page (often by pressing the Wireless and Information buttons together). Confirm the printer is connected and note the IP address. A valid IP on your network confirms setup succeeded.
Add the Printer on Windows
Open Settings > Printers & scanners and click Add device. Choose the DeskJet 3510 series. If it does not appear, add by TCP/IP using the IP from the configuration page. Install HP’s full driver so you keep scanning and maintenance tools.
Add the Printer on macOS
On macOS, go to System Settings > Printers & Scanners, click plus, and select the printer. If discovery fails, add by IP (IPP protocol). Choose an HP driver if offered. Print a test page after adding.
Mobile Printing
Once connected, iOS devices can print via AirPrint if supported; otherwise use HP Smart. Android users can print through HP Smart or Mopria/HP Print Service. If your phone can’t see the printer, make sure it is on the same Wi‑Fi and that no VPN is active.
Fixing Common Setup Issues
Wireless light keeps blinking: Credentials weren’t accepted. Reset wireless settings and retry. Password rejected: Re‑enter carefully; it’s case‑sensitive. Printer goes offline later: Reserve the printer IP in your router so Windows ports don’t break. WPA3‑only security: Switch router security to WPA2 or mixed WPA2/WPA3.
Print Quality After Setup
Print a diagnostic page. If black or colors are missing, run Clean Printhead from HP software, then print several pages to prime. Keep paper dry and cartridges vented. Printing weekly prevents clogs that can be mistaken for connection problems.
Use the Embedded Web Server (EWS)
Once the DeskJet 3512 is on Wi‑Fi, you can manage it through a browser. Type the printer’s IP address into your browser to open its Embedded Web Server. From there you can confirm wireless signal strength, view the current SSID, print network reports, and check firmware versions. If your computer claims the printer is offline, EWS helps you verify the printer is actually connected and see whether its IP changed.\n
Prevent Offline Errors After Setup
The most common long‑term issue on older DeskJets is Windows pointing to a stale port. After you connect successfully, reserve the printer’s IP address in your router so it stays constant. On Windows, avoid WSD ports—use a Standard TCP/IP port that matches the reserved IP. If your printer seems offline right after sleep, wake it from the panel and wait 20 seconds before retrying; firmware updates via HP Smart can improve wake behavior.\n
Quick Checklist
- Use 2.4 GHz Wi‑Fi; split SSIDs if needed.
- Reset the printer’s wireless settings into blinking‑light setup mode.
- Connect via WPS or HP Smart with temporary USB.
- Add by IP if discovery fails.
- Reserve IP and keep firmware/drivers updated.
With these steps, your HP DeskJet 3512 should connect wirelessly and stay online for everyday printing.