HP Photosmart C4795 Printer: Setup and Support
The HP Photosmart C4795 (part of the C4700 series) is a compact all‑in‑one that prints, scans, and copies, with many units supporting Wi‑Fi. Because it’s an older model, setup and driver choices matter more than with modern printers. This guide covers how to install the right driver on Windows or macOS, connect the printer to Wi‑Fi or USB, set up scanning, and fix the common problems that C4795 owners run into.
Unboxing and Basic Setup
Remove all packing tape and protective film. Install the power cord directly into a wall outlet and turn the printer on. Open the cartridge door and insert the black and tri‑color cartridges until they click. Load plain paper and let the printer complete its alignment routine. Keep the output tray extended so pages don’t rub and smear.
Download the Correct Driver
Go to HP’s support page for the Photosmart C4700 series and select your operating system. Download the full feature software if HP still provides it for your OS. If HP only offers a basic driver, HP Smart or a universal driver may be used, but you may lose some scan utilities—so always install the HP package first if available.
Choose USB or Wireless Connection
USB is simplest for a single computer and is the best diagnostic method for older printers. Wireless is convenient for multiple devices but requires a stable 2.4 GHz network. If your C4795 has Wi‑Fi, confirm your router broadcasts 2.4 GHz and that you know the SSID/password.
Wireless Setup (If Your Unit Supports It)
On the printer panel, open Wireless or Network settings and run the Wireless Setup Wizard to select your SSID and enter the password. Some C4700 models also support WPS—press the printer’s wireless button until it blinks, then press your router’s WPS button. When the wireless light stays solid, print a network report to note the IP address.
Install and Add on Windows
Run the HP installer, choose USB or Wireless depending on your setup, and let it detect the printer. If Windows adds a generic driver automatically, still complete the HP install to get scanning tools. After installation, open Printers & scanners and print a test page. If the printer shows offline, verify the port matches the current IP (wireless) or the correct USB port.
Install and Add on macOS
Install the HP driver package or HP Smart, then add the printer under System Settings > Printers & Scanners. If the printer appears as AirPrint only, remove it and re‑add after installing HP software so the HP driver is selectable. For wireless units that don’t show up, add by IP using IPP and the printer’s address.
Scanning Setup
Use HP Scan (from the HP package) or HP Smart to scan to your computer. If the scan button is missing, reinstall the full HP software. On macOS, Image Capture can scan via AirPrint, but HP software provides more options. If scanning fails over Wi‑Fi, disable VPN and allow HP scan services through your firewall.
Common Problems and Fixes
Printer offline: Power‑cycle the printer and router, clear queued jobs, and reserve the printer IP so Windows ports don’t break. Not printing black: Reseat the black cartridge, run a printhead cleaning, and print several black pages to prime. Replace the cartridge if gaps remain. Paper jams: Remove scraps from the rear path, clean rollers, and use dry paper with guides snug. Streaky output: Run alignment and cleaning; ensure correct media type in the driver.
Ink and Maintenance Tips
The C4795 uses a black cartridge and a tri‑color cartridge. Make sure vent tape is removed and cartridges are not expired. Print at least once a week to prevent clogs. Run a nozzle check monthly if you don’t print often. Keep paper sealed to avoid humidity‑related smearing.
Firmware and Network Stability
If your model supports firmware updates, apply them through HP software. Reserve the printer IP in your router and keep it on the main 2.4 GHz SSID, not a guest network. Older Photosmart models often struggle with WPA3‑only networks, so use WPA2 or mixed mode.
Using the C4795 with Newer Devices
Because the C4795 is a legacy model, newer Windows or macOS versions may default to a basic driver. If HP’s full package isn’t available for your OS, install HP Smart and add the printer by IP or USB, then select a compatible Photosmart C4700 or HP Universal driver. For phones, AirPrint (iOS) or Mopria/HP Print Service (Android) may work if the printer is on the same network, but features can be limited compared to the original HP software.
Quick Checklist
- Install cartridges and load paper; complete alignment.
- Download HP C4700 series drivers or HP Smart.
- Connect by USB (best for diagnostics) or 2.4 GHz Wi‑Fi.
- Add the printer and test print/scan.
- Fix offline issues with correct ports and IP reservation.
- Maintain ink flow with weekly prints and periodic cleanings.
With the right drivers and stable connection, the HP Photosmart C4795 can still be a dependable home printer and scanner. Most issues come from aging cartridges or network changes, not the printer itself.