The printer software is not compatible with this device.

This error happens because updating your Mac often removes a background program called Rosetta, which acts as a translator so your Mac can talk to older printer software.

To bring that translator back, go to Finder > Applications > Utilities > Terminal. When the Terminal window opens, copy and paste softwareupdate --install-rosetta --agree-to-license into the window and press Return on your keyboard. That single command installs Rosetta so your Mac can understand older printer software again.

Next, go to System Settings > Printers & Scanners. Hold down the Control key on your keyboard, click inside the printer list box, select Reset Printing System, and confirm. Unplug the USB cable from your printer, wait ten seconds, and plug it back in.

Now go to System Settings > Printers & Scanners > Add Printer, Scanner, or Fax and select your HP LaserJet 1022 from the list. In the Use menu near the bottom, select Generic PCL Printer. Using Generic PCL lets your Mac send print jobs cleanly without relying on outdated HP software. Restart your iMac when you are done, and your printer should work normally.

Servant of Cats wrote:

Note that Rosetta 2 will be going away when next year's macOS 28 comes out.

I have two old printers (Samsung ML-1675 and HP LaserJet P1005) that still work on macOS 27 with Rosetta 2.

I have heard that virtualization apps like UTM and VirtualBuddy might be updated to support external USB devices. I have tested both apps running Sequoia but external USB is at least yet not supported.

But maybe later old USB printers could be used via UTM, VirtualBuddy etc running Golden Gate and earlier macOS down to Monterey natively and maybe even System 9 via QEMU-emulation?

Note that Rosetta 2 will be going away when next year's macOS 28 comes out.

That worked. Thank you!

I guess I have at least another year to keep the old HP going. Appreciate your help.