You sometimes encounter a member that is upset there is no good answer. However I always try and help.
If this was my PC I'd try the following.
1. Uninstall the HP software.
2. Create a new admin capable account.
3. Log into the new account.
4. Install the HP software again.
Test.
If it fails, it could be HP didn't update it for XP SP3. It's been over the usual number of years so it may be end of life'd.
Bob
PC: Dell 4600i, XP pro SP3, USB connected HP Photosmart C4280 printer.
Troubles after installing HP C4280's Full Feature (FF) s/w. There is no "HP Solution Center" shortcut to run to access the Printer Toolbox which allows me to clean ink cartridges and print diagnostic pages.
When I run HPQDIREC.EXE from the C:\Program Files\HP\Digital Imaging\BIN\ folder, I can get the HP "Solution Center".
But when I run HPQDIREC.EXE I get a notice telling me it is "Please wait while windows configures a scan." It says it's "Gathering Required Information" then it fails and tries again, over and over. If I CANCEL when it starts this Gathering procedure I can get to the programs I want (Solution Center+Settings+Printer Toolbox) after 4-5 Cancels.
I have tried the MS Clean UP Utility, didn't help. Ran msconfig+startup tab and there are no programs starting with HP that is running.
Why is windows trying to "configure a scan"? It must be called by the HPQDIREC.EXE program as it starts up.
Does anyone know what's being called? Is there a way to run a program that records what is being run during a period of time?
How do I stop this procedure?
I have asked this question in the HP forums, XP forums, etc. They either have no good answer or they don't reply.

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