Using an HP LaserJet 1018 with OS X

About 7 years ago, I purchased an HP LaserJet 1018 and have been using it ever since. It’s a basic black and white laser printer, but what I’ve found amazing is that in the 7 or so years that I’ve had it, I’ve only ever needed to replace the toner cartridge once. Back when I first bought it, OS X wasn’t supported, and it unfortunately still isn’t. I used to get it to work using OpenPrinting.org’s Foomatic, a “database-driven system for integrating free software printer drivers with common spoolers under Unix”. There’s still a full install guide here, but what I’ve found over on the Jayway.com is far easier.

In order to get the HP LaserJet 1018 working on OS X, you’ll need to:

  1. Download the HP drivers from the Apple support site here and install them.
  2. Turn on and connect your printer. I connect mine to my Airport Extreme, but a direct USB connection will work too.
  3. Go to System Preferences, Printers & Scanners, click the + icon to add a new printer. Make sure you have admin rights on your Mac, as otherwise you will not be able to do this (in this case, click the padlock in the lower left corner of the window).
  4. Chose the HP LaserJet 1018 printer, then select the HP LaserJet 1022 drivers.

That’s it! Worked like a charm.

(Please ignore my incredibly bad printer drawing. I just thought I’d add some colour into this post!)

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