hp printer connection

[xtn]

i use an hp psc 1500 series printer, but lately its been giving me a lot of problems. i can print to it, but my computer does not recognize that it is connected. i downloaded all the software and got to the set-up assistant, but my computer could not find any devices connected. i've tried re-installing many times and still i get the same problem. i wouldn't care so much if i didn't have papers that i scan into my computer but cannot do anymore b/c there is apparently no connection, but i can still print.....makes no sense to me. any help would be greatly appreciated!