Learn how media-sensing technology can automatically detect your paper type, discover how you can use it
to improve the quality of your photos, and see which HP printers and papers make it possible.
How media sensing works
Check for the Auto Sense mark found on select HP paper.
To get the highest quality photo prints, it's important to make sure your print settings coordinate
with the size, weight, texture, and finish of your paper. HP media-sensing technology adjusts your
print settings automatically, taking the guesswork out of selecting the correct settings. It also
saves you time, effort, and the expense of wasted ink and paper from printing by trial and error.
HP Auto Sense
HP Auto Sense-enabled printers are designed to detect Auto Sense marks on the back of select HP paper.
When used with this unique media, just select "Print" and Auto Sense-enabled printers automatically:
Detect the paper type
Determine paper size and printing boundaries
Adjust print settings to deliver optimum prints
Alert you if your paper is loaded incorrectly
The following HP papers carry the Auto Sense mark-just look for the icon on the packaging:
Even when printing on other media types—such as transparencies or papers from competitive brands—HP
printers can automatically adjust print settings for picture-perfect results. HP automatic paper-type
sensing determines your media type and width, and adjusts accordingly to deliver the best photo prints possible.
HP Auto Sense and Optical Sensor technology automatically adjusts print settings to match your media type.
For the best results, make sure to look for the Auto Sense mark on the back of your photo paper.
Find answers to some of the most common questions about media-sensing technology from HP. Q: Can I customize the settings that will be applied for certain types of paper?
With HP media-sensing technology, print settings are taken care of for you. However, if you prefer to
customize your print settings yourself, you can override the automatic settings. Check your printer's
user manual for details and instructions. Q: Will media-sensing technology work with my current printer?
HP Auto Sense and HP Optical Sensors are built-in features that are only available on select HP printers.
Check out the Availability section below to find an automatic paper-type
sensing or Auto Sense-equipped printer that fits your needs. Q: How can I tell if my paper is Auto Sense paper? Is all HP paper Auto Sense compatible?
If you are using older HP photo paper, it may not be Auto Sense compatible. Look for the Auto Sense mark
on the packaging or on the back of your photo paper. Q: What if I don't have HP Auto Sense paper? Does Auto Sense only work with HP printers and paper?
While Auto Sense technology is unique to select HP printers and photo papers, printers with automatic
paper-type sensing also support media from competitive brands, so you'll still get the best print quality
possible.
*Display permanence rating by Wilhelm Imaging Research, Inc. and/or HP Image Permanence Lab using select HP Vivera
pigment inks. For details, visit www.hp.com/go/printpermanence. 1Requires a Snapfish.com account and an Internet connection to the printer. 2Requires Internet connection to printer.