How to Fix B4 Duplex Error on HP Smart Tank 7005

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If your HP Smart Tank 7005 printer is showing a B4 error when trying to print double-sided, you’re not alone. Many users face this problem, and it can be frustrating. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you fix the issue and get your printer back to working condition.

First, it’s important to confirm whether your printer has a duplex unit. Some users have been told by customer support that their printer doesn’t have one, but you can check the HP website or your user manual to verify if your specific model supports duplex printing.

Next, if your printer does support duplex printing, but you’re seeing the B4 error, the problem often relates to how the paper moves inside the printer during double-sided printing. The printer feeds the paper in, prints on one side, then pulls it back in to print on the other. In your case, the paper isn’t pulling back far enough—only about one-third of the way—before the printer attempts to print the second side, leading to the B4 error.

Here are some steps to try and fix the issue:

Ensure the duplex rollers are clean:
Even if they look clean, gently wipe the rollers with a soft, lint-free cloth dampened with a little water or isopropyl alcohol. Make sure the rollers aren’t sticky or dirty, as debris can interfere with paper movement.
Use the right paper:
You’ve tried 80gsm and 100gsm paper, which are good choices. Ensure the paper is of good quality and not curled or damaged. Using new, smooth, and evenly cut paper helps prevent jams and misfeeds.
Check the paper tray and alignment:
Make sure the paper is loaded properly, and the stack is aligned correctly. Sometimes, too many sheets or uneven stacking can cause feeding issues.
Update printer firmware:
Visit HP’s official website and check if your printer has the latest firmware. An update can sometimes resolve hardware recognition issues or bugs related to duplex printing.
Test with different program or device:
Try printing from a different application or device to rule out software issues. You mentioned trying from your PC and Android phone—if the problem persists across devices, it’s more likely hardware-related.
Reset the printer:
Turn off the printer, unplug it from the power source, wait for about 60 seconds, then plug it back in and turn it on. This simple reset can sometimes clear errors.

If after trying all these steps your printer still displays the B4 error and only pulls the paper back a third of the way, it could be a mechanical problem with the duplex mechanism. In that case, it’s best to contact HP support again, provide them with what you’ve tried, and ask if a repair or replacement is necessary.

Remember, small maintenance steps often resolve these issues. Don’t hesitate to follow up with support if needed, and make sure your printer’s hardware is functioning correctly to get consistent double-sided printing.