How to Print a CD Cover on an HP Photosmart
By Nick Peers
You can use the software that came with your HP Photosmart all-in-one printer to create CD covers and then print them on the discs. For this to work, the CD must be printable, and you shouldn't use CDs that have their manufacturer, size and speed already printed on them. You must use the latest HP software to create and print the covers. If you can't find the installation disc that came with your printer, download the latest version of the software from HP's Support website.
Step 1
Launch the HP Solution Center that was installed on your computer when you installed the HP software.
Step 2
Click the "View Library" button to open the photo library and then select the folder that contains the images you want to use for your CD cover from the left pane. Click the "Add This Folder" to add the folder to the library. You can only use photos from the library to create the CD cover.
Step 3
Click the "Back" arrow near the top of the window to return to the Welcome screen.
Step 4
Click the "Create" button, choose "Disc Labels," and then click either "Standard CD" if you want to print on a standard CD or "Mini CD" if you want to print on a mini CD. Click "Choose This Format."
Step 5
Choose a design from the list of designs, and then click the "Choose This Design" button.
Step 6
Select the photo or photos you want to print on your CD, and then click the "Add These Photos" button.
Step 7
Use the controls in the Edit Your Disc Label section to zoom, rotate and reposition the photo. Click the text boxes and type or paste some text, if you want to add text to the label. Click "Create" when you're satisfied with the result.
Step 8
Select the HP Photosmart printer from the "Printer" drop-down box, and then ensure the "Standard Sizes" option is selected.
Step 9
Click the "Print" button when you're ready to print the cover on the CD. The "Open CD/DVD Tray" message is displayed on the printer's LCD.
Step 10
Pull the CD/DVD tab below the main tray to remove the CD holder, and then place the disc on the ring of the CD holder with its print-side up. Gently press on the CD until it snaps into place.
Step 11
Lower the CD/DVD tray located just below the control panel, and then insert the CD holder into the tray. The printer starts printing as soon as the white lines on the tray and holder match up.
Step 12
Wait until the printing process is complete, remove the CD holder from the tray, let the ink on the CD dry for a few minutes, and then remove the disc from the holder.
Step 13
Close the CD/DVD tray, and then insert the CD holder back into the storage space.
Tips
- Photo Creations, the latest software from HP, does not support printing CD labels. HP Photosmart Essential is available for download from HP's FTP website (link in Resources).
- The back of the HP all-in-one printer must be at least three inches away from the wall or other objects.
- If you use a small CD, don't forget to flip the holder ring over the disc before you snap the CD holder into place.
- You can add additional folders to HP Photosmart Essential if you can't find the photos you want to print on the CD.
- You can bold or italicize the text when you type it, but you can't choose a different font or change the size of the text.
- Alternatively, you can use a free third-party utility to create the CD cover and then print it on the disc.
Warnings
- Don't turn off or unplug the printer from the computer while it prints the CD cover.
- Information in this article applies to HP Photosmart Essential 3.5. Procedures may vary slightly or significantly with other versions or products.
Writer Bio
Nick Peers has been writing technology-related articles since 2003. His articles have appeared in dozens of technical publications, including MSN UK, CNET, BBC Who Do You Think You Are, LifeHacker UK and TechRadar. He holds a Masters in information technology degree from the University of East London.