Troubleshooting: Why Does My Brother Printer Say 'Check Connection' When I Try to Scan?
Introduction
Making sure your printed documents and images are scanned efficiently and without errors can be a frustrating experience, especially when you encounter messages like 'Check Connection.' This article will guide you through the troubleshooting process for a Brother printer that displays this message when attempting to scan. Understanding and addressing the underlying issue can help ensure a smoother scanning process.
Understanding the Issue
When you see the message 'Check Connection' on your Brother printer, the device is signaling a problem with the data connection. This can occur via a variety of connection methods, including USB cables, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or Ethernet. The message serves as a prompt to check the following:
1. Verify Your Connection Method
Every Brother printer supports different networking options, and the correct method to use depends on the model and your workspace setup. Here’s a step-by-step guide to verifying and adjusting your connection method:
USB Cable
Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to both the printer and the computer. Check if the printer is powered on. Disconnect and reconnect the USB cable to ensure the connection is stable.Wi-Fi
Confirm that the printer has been properly set up with a Wi-Fi network. Use a Wi-Fi connectivity checker tool on your printer to ensure it is connected to the correct network. Check your computer's Wi-Fi settings and ensure it is connected to the same network as the printer.Bluetooth
Ensure that both the printer and computer are powered on. Verify that the printer is in 'Bluetooth pairing' mode. On the computer, go to the Bluetooth settings and await the printer's appearance in the list. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the pairing process.Ethernet Connection
Ensure the Ethernet cable is properly connected to the printer and your router or modem. Check if the printer is powered on and a light is on. Use a network cable tester to ensure the Ethernet cable is functioning properly.Other Potential Issues
Aside from the connection method, there are a few other settings that could cause the 'Check Connection' message to appear:
Software Updates
Make sure that your Brother printer’s software and the printing software on your computer are up to date. Outdated versions could lead to your printer not recognizing your scans or not being able to properly establish a connection.
Printer and Scanner Settings
Parallel settings may differ depending on the software you are using. Even if your printer is correctly set up, the scanning software might not be able to communicate properly. Refer to your scanner’s manual or software documentation for guidance.
Conclusion
When your Brother printer displays 'Check Connection' during scanning, it can indicate a problem with your device’s connection, settings, or software. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this article, you can identify and resolve the issue, ensuring your scanning process runs smoothly. Should you need further assistance, consult your printer’s manual, or reach out to Brother’s customer support for personalized guidance.
Keywords: Brother Printer, Check Connection, Scanner Troubleshooting