Modern office equipment has ceased to be just a peripheral device requiring a physical connection via a cable, but has become a fully-fledged node in the home network. HP Smart Tank 513 with a continuous ink supply system (CISS) is initially aimed at economical printing of large volumes, but its potential cannot be realized without wireless connection It's impossible. The ability to print from mobile devices and laptops from anywhere in the apartment makes this MFP truly convenient for everyday use.
Activating the wireless module may seem complicated at first glance, especially if you're used to simpler models without a display. However, HP engineers have provided several setup scenarios, including using a USB cable for initial transfer of router settings. Understanding the logic indicators on the front panel of the device will allow you to avoid most typical errors during synchronization.
In this guide, we'll cover all available configuration methods in detail, focusing on using the proprietary software. You'll learn how to properly reset network settings if previous attempts were unsuccessful, and how to ensure a stable signal for printing high-resolution photos and documents.
⚠️ Attention: Before beginning setup, make sure your router is operating on the 2.4 GHz frequency. Many printer models, including the Tank 513 series, may not detect 5 GHz networks unless band bonding or a guest network is enabled on the router.
Preparing equipment and checking network parameters
The first step to successfully integrating a printer into a local network is to properly prepare the infrastructure. Make sure the router is turned on and providing internet access, and HP Smart Tank 513 Filled with ink and ready to use. Having paper in the tray is also critical, as the device often prints a configuration report or test page immediately after successful connection.
Important to know your network name (SSID) and its password. If you don't remember this information, you can find it on a sticker on the bottom of the router or in your ISP contract. Modern router interfaces often use complex character combinations, so it's a good idea to write down the password in advance or copy it to your smartphone's clipboard to avoid typing errors.
Place the printer close to the router during setup. Although the built-in antenna provides strong reception, the initial handshake should be no more than a few meters away. This will eliminate issues related to a weak signal or interference from walls and appliances.
- 📶 Check if the Wi-Fi indicator on your router is lit and blinking, indicating data transfer.
- 🔌 Make sure the printer's power cord is plugged directly into a power outlet and not into a surge protector with worn contacts.
- 📱 Prepare the device (smartphone or PC) from which you will perform the setup and make sure it is connected to the same network.
☑️ Ready for Wi-Fi setup
Resetting the printer's network settings before connecting
If your HP Smart Tank 513 If you previously used your printer on a different network or changed your provider, you should clear the device's memory of old profiles. This ensures that the printer doesn't automatically attempt to connect to a router that's now unavailable, which often blocks the printer from searching for new networks.
To perform a reset on the device's control panel, you must simultaneously press and hold two buttons: Wireless communication (antenna icon) and Cancel (cross). Hold them down for about 3-5 seconds until the power indicator flashes. After this, the wireless network indicator will start flashing blue, indicating the device is in search mode and ready for setup.
In some cases, especially after firmware updates or serious failures, you may need to restore the factory network settings via the menu. This won't affect your ink settings or page counters, but it will return your TCP/IP settings to their original values. This approach is effective when holding down the buttons doesn't produce the expected result.
What should I do if the Wi-Fi indicator does not blink after reset?
If the wireless indicator doesn't start flashing blue after holding the buttons, try turning off the printer using the power button, waiting 10 seconds, and then turning it back on. If the issue persists, check to see if any buttons are mechanically stuck. In rare cases, updating the firmware via USB may be necessary before attempting the reset again.
WPS method: quick connection without entering a password
The easiest way to connect HP Smart Tank 513 with the router is technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). This method allows you to automatically transfer the password by simply pressing the corresponding button on the router. However, it's important to note that this method only works if your router supports this feature and it's enabled.
To begin, press the WPS button on your router. Depending on the model, you simply press it or hold it for a few seconds until the corresponding light lights up. Then, within two minutes, press and hold the wireless button on the printer until the light starts flashing. The device will automatically find the network and establish a connection.
If the printer's Wi-Fi indicator turns blue and stops blinking, the connection is successful. You can now proceed to installing drivers or printing a test page. If the indicator continues blinking or turns orange, the connection is not established and you should try another method, such as a USB cable.
⚠️ Attention: WPS technology is considered less secure than manually entering a complex password, as it is theoretically possible to brute-force the key. If you use the printer in an office with high security requirements, it's better to choose the USB or app setup method.
Setup via USB cable and HP Smart app
The most reliable and universal configuration method is to use a USB cable and a mobile app. HP SmartThis method allows you to transfer accurate network information (SSID and password) directly from your computer or smartphone to the printer, eliminating manual entry errors. First, download and install the HP Smart app from the Microsoft Store, App Store, or Google Play.
Connect the printer to your computer or laptop using the included USB cable. Launch the HP Smart app and click the "Add Printer" button (usually a plus sign). The app will automatically detect the connected device and prompt you to configure it for your wireless network.
Follow the on-screen instructions: the app will automatically detect your current Wi-Fi network and offer to transfer its settings to the MFP. During the setup process, you may be asked to enter your Wi-Fi password if it isn't saved in the system. Once the data transfer is successful, the app will confirm that the printer is connected and prompt you to disconnect the USB cable.
Sequence of actions in the application:1. Open HP Smart
2. Click "+" (Add printer)
3. Select HP Smart Tank 513 series
4. Click "Continue"
5. Enter the Wi-Fi password (if required)
6. Wait for the "Done" message
Direct connection (HP Wireless Direct) for printing without a router
Function HP Wireless Direct Allows you to print directly from a mobile device or laptop, even if there's no internet or router available. In this mode, the printer automatically creates its own wireless network to which your devices connect. This is the ideal solution for printing documents on business trips or when the main network is temporarily unavailable.
To activate this mode, press the Wireless Direct button on the printer's control panel (the smartphone icon next to the antenna). If the button isn't highlighted, you can find the function in the wireless settings menu. The network name (e.g., HP-Print-513-Tank) and connection password will be displayed on the device's screen or on the printed network configuration report.
Connect your smartphone or laptop to this new Wi-Fi network by entering the password displayed on the printer's screen. After that, the printer will appear in the list of available printers on your device. HP Smart Tank 513It's worth remembering that in this mode, the printer does not have internet access, so cloud printing and scanning to email will not work.
| Parameter | Description | Default value |
|---|---|---|
| Network name (SSID) | A unique name generated by the printer. | HP-Print-xx-Tank 513 |
| Security | Connection encryption type | WPA2 |
| Password | Printer network access code | 12345678 (usually) |
| Max clients | Number of devices simultaneously | 5 devices |
Diagnosing problems and troubleshooting connection errors
Even if you strictly follow the instructions, situations may arise when HP Smart Tank 513 The printer refuses to see the network or constantly loses connection. Often, the problem lies in router security settings, such as MAC address filtering or hiding the network name (SSID). In such cases, you need to whitelist the printer in the router settings.
Another common cause of failures is frequency band incompatibility. As mentioned, the printer operates on the 2.4 GHz band. If your router broadcasts a 5 GHz network with the same name, the printer may become confused. A solution is to separate the network names in the router settings (e.g., MyWiFi_2G and MyWiFi_5G) or enable compatibility mode.
If the Wi-Fi indicator is blinking blue but not solid, it means the printer is trying to connect but is unable to. Check that the password is entered correctly. If the indicator is orange, a configuration error has been detected and a network reset is required. In more complex cases, assigning a static IP address through the printer menu may help.
⚠️ Attention: Router interfaces and printer firmware versions are updated regularly. If the steps described don't match what you see on the screen, please refer to the official HP documentation or the support section on the manufacturer's website for up-to-date screenshots and instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can the HP Smart Tank 513 be connected to a hidden Wi-Fi network?
Yes, this is possible, but it requires manual setup. You'll need to connect via a USB cable and the HP Smart app, where you can manually enter the hidden network name (SSID) and password. Automatic network discovery won't work in this case.
My printer stopped printing over Wi-Fi after changing my router. What should I do?
You need to reset the printer's network settings (press and hold the Wireless and Cancel buttons), then reconnect using the new Wi-Fi password. This will erase any old information about the previous router.
What is the maximum Wi-Fi range of this model?
The range depends on the power of your router and the obstacles in the room. In open spaces, it can reach 30-50 meters, but in an apartment with concrete walls, reliable reception is usually maintained within 10-15 meters from the signal source.
Does printing from iPhone (AirPrint) work without installing drivers?
Yes, HP Smart Tank 513 Supports AirPrint technology. To print from Apple devices, simply connect your iPhone and printer to the same Wi-Fi network. No separate driver installation is required; the system automatically recognizes the device.
Do I need to update my printer firmware for Wi-Fi to work?
Firmware updates aren't strictly necessary for basic Wi-Fi operation, but they are highly recommended. New firmware versions often contain security fixes and improve connection stability with modern routers.