How to Scan From Brother Printer to Computer

 




Scanning from a Brother printer to a computer is a simple process that allows you to digitize documents and images for easy storage, sharing, or editing. Brother printers come with built-in scanning features that, when combined with the appropriate software, can send scanned documents directly to your computer. Depending on your printer model and computer setup, you can scan via a USB connection or wirelessly through Wi-Fi.

The process generally involves using software such as Brother ControlCenter4 for Windows or Brother iPrint&Scan for macOS. These programs allow you to customize your scan settings, such as resolution, file format (PDF, JPEG, etc.), and the destination folder where your scanned files will be saved.

Additionally, operating systems like Windows and macOS have native scanning utilities (like Windows Fax and Scan or Preview) that can also be used with Brother printers.

Whether scanning for work, personal records, or creative projects, learning to scan effectively can streamline document management and enhance productivity.


Why Brother Printer Won't Scan to Computer 

If your Brother printer won't scan to your computer, several factors could be causing the issue. Here are some common reasons and troubleshooting steps:

1. Connection Issues

  • USB Connection: Ensure that the USB cable is properly connected between the printer and the computer. Try using a different cable or USB port if possible.
  • Wireless Connection: If you’re using Wi-Fi, check that both your printer and computer are connected to the same wireless network. Restart both devices and reconnect them to the network if needed.

2. Driver or Software Not Installed

  • If the Brother scanner driver or software (e.g., ControlCenter4 for Windows or iPrint&Scan for macOS) isn't installed, the scanner function won't work.
    • Solution: Download and install the necessary drivers from the Brother website.

3. Firewall or Security Software

  • Security software (like antivirus or firewall programs) may block communication between the printer and the computer.
    • Solution: Temporarily disable your firewall or security software and check if the scan works. If it does, add an exception for your Brother printer.

4. Brother Printer Not Set as Default Scanner

  • Ensure that your Brother printer is set as the default scanner in your computer’s settings.
    • Windows: Go to Control Panel > Devices and Printers, right-click on your Brother printer, and choose Set as Default Printer.
    • macOS: Go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners, select your Brother printer, and ensure it’s selected as the scanner.

5. Scan to PC Option Not Enabled on Printer

  • On some models, you may need to enable the Scan to PC function from the printer’s control panel.
    • Solution: Check the printer's control panel settings to ensure the Scan to Computer option is enabled.

6. Scanner Driver Not Recognized

  • Your operating system may not recognize the scanner if the driver is corrupted or out of date.
    • Solution: Reinstall or update the scanner drivers from the Brother website.

7. Outdated or Incompatible Software

  • The software you are using to initiate the scan (e.g., ControlCenter or iPrint&Scan) may be outdated or incompatible with your operating system.
    • Solution: Update the software to the latest version, ensuring compatibility with your OS.

8. Printer is in Sleep Mode

  • If your printer is in sleep mode, it might not be responsive to scanning commands.
    • Solution: Wake up the printer by pressing a button on the control panel, then try scanning again.

9. Brother ControlCenter4 or iPrint&Scan Not Running

  • If the Brother scanning software isn't running in the background, the scan function won't work.
    • Solution: Make sure ControlCenter4 (Windows) or iPrint&Scan (macOS) is open and running.

10. Scanner Driver Conflict

  • If you have multiple scanning devices installed, there could be a conflict between different scanner drivers.
    • Solution: Disconnect or uninstall other scanners and restart your computer.

11. Restart Devices

Sometimes, restarting your printer, computer, and router can fix communication issues.

12. Check Error Messages

  • If you see error messages, check the Brother manual or the error code on the display panel for specific solutions.

13. Check Scanner Function in Other Programs

  • Try using a different program to initiate the scan, such as Windows Fax and Scan (for Windows) or Preview (for macOS). This will help determine whether the issue is software-related.

If the issue persists after trying these solutions, there could be a hardware issue with the scanner itself.


Easy Steps to Scan From Brother Printer to Computer 

To scan from a Brother printer to a computer, follow these steps depending on your setup:

1. Install the Brother Printer Software

Make sure the printer drivers and software are installed on your computer. You can download them from Brother's official website by entering your printer model.

2. Connect Your Printer to the Computer

  • USB Cable: Plug the USB cable from the printer into your computer.
  • Wireless (Wi-Fi): Ensure both your printer and computer are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

3. Set Up the Scanner on Your Computer

For Windows and macOS, the drivers should have installed the scanner functions as well. If needed, check in your system’s scanner settings to confirm that the Brother printer is recognized.

4. Scanning on Windows

Method 1: Using Brother ControlCenter Software

  1. Open the Brother ControlCenter4 software (for Windows).
  2. Select Scan, then choose the appropriate scan function, such as Image, OCR, File, or Email.
  3. Adjust the scan settings (resolution, file format, etc.) if needed.
  4. Click Scan to begin scanning.

Method 2: Using Windows Fax and Scan

  1. Search for Windows Fax and Scan in the Start menu and open it.
  2. Click on New Scan.
  3. Choose your Brother printer from the Scanner dropdown.
  4. Adjust the scan settings and click Scan.

5. Scanning on macOS

Method 1: Using Brother iPrint&Scan

  1. Open Brother iPrint&Scan (if installed).
  2. Select your printer and click Scan.
  3. Choose your desired settings and click Start to scan.

Method 2: Using macOS Preview App

  1. Open the Preview app.
  2. Go to File > Import from Scanner.
  3. Select your Brother printer.
  4. Set your preferences, then click Scan.

6. Save the Scanned File

After scanning, save the scanned file to your preferred location on your computer.

Let me know if you need specific details about your printer model.


Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

My Brother Printer Won't Print : Learn How to Fix

Image
  When a Brother printer Won't Print Anything , it can be frustrating, especially if you're unsure of the cause. This issue can occur due to various factors, including connectivity problems, outdated drivers, misconfigured settings, or even hardware malfunctions. Whether you're using a USB or wireless connection, the printer may not respond to print commands, leaving documents stuck in the print queue. Identifying the root cause is key to resolving the problem. Common reasons include incorrect printer settings, low ink or toner levels, paper jams, or a lack of communication between the printer and the computer. By systematically troubleshooting these areas, you can often resolve the issue and get your Brother printer back to working condition. Understanding these causes and solutions will help ensure smooth printing experiences and prevent future printing disruptions. Troubleshooting Steps to Fix Brother Printer Won't Print  1. Check Browser Settings If you are printing...
Read more

Brother Printer Offline Windows 10 : Learn How to Fix

Image
  When a Brother printer shows as offline on a Windows 10 computer, it means your computer and the printer are not communicating properly. This issue can arise due to various reasons, such as connectivity problems, incorrect printer settings, outdated drivers, or network issues. Understanding how to troubleshoot and resolve the issue is important for seamless printing. Why Does a Brother Printer Go Offline? Connection Problems : Issues with Wi-Fi, USB cables, or Ethernet connections can lead to communication failures. Printer Settings : Incorrect printer settings, such as being set to "Use Printer Offline," can cause this problem. Driver Issues : Outdated or corrupted printer drivers may lead to miscommunication between the printer and computer. Network Conflicts : If the printer's IP address changes or is not recognized, it can appear offline. Power or Device Issues : The printer may be turned off, in sleep mode, or experiencing hardware malfunctions. Steps to Troubles...
Read more

How to Reach Brother Printer Customer Service Phone Number

Image
Dial 1-888-966-6097 to Reach Brother Printer Customer Service Number.  In this digital interconnected era, Brother printer is a well-recognized brand. In the world of printers as well as imaging devices, this printing device is truly a piece of equipment that provides you with a multitude of printing solutions. This way, you can easily fulfill your every requirement regardless of whether it is personal or related to your profession. Undoubtedly, Brother printers are one of the most reliable printing devices that offer you high-quality performance. But still, being a user of Brother printer, you may have to encounter various issues. If you are also encountering several issues or in need of help to resolve issues with your printing device, dial Brother customer service number . Luckily, Brother provides users with top-notch customer support services, and out of all those services, telephonic support is outstanding. Once you dial the customer care number, you can easily fix the issues...
Read more