What To Know
- If you’re using a Brother printer on a Windows or Mac computer, you can utilize the Brother ControlCenter2 software for a more comprehensive view of your print history.
- The print history in Brother ControlCenter2 provides a more detailed overview of your print jobs, including the document name, file size, print date, time, and even the number of pages printed.
- The “Print Queue” window will display a list of recent print jobs, including the document name and the time it was sent to the printer.
Are you curious about your printing activity? Maybe you’re trying to track down a lost document, figure out who printed a specific file, or simply want to see what you’ve been printing lately. Whatever your reason, knowing how to check your print history on your Brother printer can be incredibly helpful. This guide will walk you through the various methods, from navigating your printer’s control panel to utilizing software tools, ensuring you have all the information you need at your fingertips.
Method 1: The Printer’s Control Panel
The most straightforward way to access your print history is through your Brother printer’s control panel. This method allows for quick and easy access to recent printing activity, ideal for casual checks.
1. Power On Your Printer: Ensure your Brother printer is turned on and ready to go.
2. Navigate to the Menu: Locate the menu button on your printer’s control panel. This is usually a button labeled “Menu,” “Settings,” or represented by a gear icon.
3. Find the Print History: Depending on your printer model, the print history option might be labeled as “Print Log,” “Job History,” or something similar. You’ll likely need to navigate through various sub-menus to find it.
4. Review Your Print History: The print history will usually display information about recent print jobs, including the date, time, document name, and sometimes even the number of pages printed.
Method 2: Brother iPrint&Scan App
For a more mobile and convenient approach, the Brother iPrint&Scan app offers a user-friendly way to access your print history. This app is available for both Android and iOS devices and allows you to manage your printing remotely.
1. Download and Install: Find the Brother iPrint&Scan app on the Google Play Store or Apple App Store and install it on your smartphone or tablet.
2. Connect to Your Printer: Open the app and follow the on-screen instructions to connect your device to your Brother printer. This usually involves selecting your printer model and entering a PIN code displayed on your printer’s control panel.
3. Access Print History: Once connected, navigate through the app’s menus to find the “Print History” or “Job Log” section. You’ll be able to view a list of recent print jobs with details like the document name and date printed.
Method 3: Brother ControlCenter2 Software
If you’re using a Brother printer on a Windows or Mac computer, you can utilize the Brother ControlCenter2 software for a more comprehensive view of your print history. This software offers a range of features for managing your printer, including detailed information about your printing activity.
1. Install Brother ControlCenter2: Download the Brother ControlCenter2 software from the Brother website and install it on your computer. Choose the version compatible with your operating system.
2. Launch the Software: Once installed, launch the Brother ControlCenter2 software. You should see an icon on your desktop or within your applications list.
3. Access Print History: Within the software’s interface, locate the “Print History” or “Job Log” section. This will typically be listed under a “Status” or “Monitor” tab.
4. View Detailed Information: The print history in Brother ControlCenter2 provides a more detailed overview of your print jobs, including the document name, file size, print date, time, and even the number of pages printed.
Method 4: Checking Print History on Your Computer
For those who prefer to stay within their computer’s environment, accessing print history directly through your operating system is possible. While this method may not be as comprehensive as using Brother’s software, it offers a quick and easy way to view recent prints.
For Windows Users:
1. Open the Control Panel: Access the Control Panel by searching for it in the Windows search bar.
2. Navigate to Devices and Printers: Locate the “Devices and Printers” section within the Control Panel.
3. Right-Click Your Printer: Right-click on the icon representing your Brother printer.
4. Select “See What’s Printing”: From the context menu, choose “See What’s Printing.”
5. View Recent Print Jobs: The “Print Queue” window will display a list of recent print jobs, including the document name and the time it was sent to the printer.
For Mac Users:
1. Open System Preferences: Click on the Apple icon in the top left corner of your screen and select “System Preferences.”
2. Go to Printers & Scanners: Choose the “Printers & Scanners” option from the System Preferences menu.
3. Click on Your Printer: Click on the name of your Brother printer in the list of available printers.
4. View Recent Print Jobs: The “Print Queue” section will show a list of recent print jobs, including the document name and the time it was sent to the printer.
Method 5: Checking Your Network Router’s Logs
If you’re connected to your printer through a network, you can sometimes check your router’s logs to find information about your printing activity. This method is less common and may require a deeper understanding of network settings.
1. Access Your Router’s Interface: Open your web browser and enter your router’s IP address in the address bar. The IP address is usually found on a sticker on the bottom or back of your router.
2. Log In to Your Router: Enter the username and password for your router. These credentials are also typically found on the router’s sticker or in the router’s documentation.
3. Find the Logs: Navigate through your router’s settings to find the “Logs” or “Event Log” section. This might be located under a “Security” or “Administration” tab.
4. Search for Print Activity: Look for entries related to your Brother printer‘s IP address or name. These entries may indicate when a print job was sent to the printer.
Keeping Your Print History Clean
While checking your print history is useful, you might want to clear it out if you’re concerned about privacy or simply want to keep things tidy. Most Brother printers allow you to delete your print history, either through the control panel or the Brother ControlCenter2 software.
To clear your print history on your Brother printer:
1. Access the Menu: Navigate to the menu on your printer’s control panel.
2. Find the Print History Options: Look for a “Print History,” “Job Log,” or “Clear History” option within the menu.
3. Select the Clear Option: Choose the option to clear your print history. This will typically delete all entries from the history log.
Understanding Your Printing Habits
By understanding how to check your print history on your Brother printer, you gain a valuable tool for tracking your printing activity, troubleshooting issues, and optimizing your printing practices. Whether you’re looking for a lost document, monitoring your printing costs, or simply curious about your printing habits, these methods provide the information you need to stay informed and in control.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I print directly from my phone to my Brother printer?
A: Yes, many Brother printers are compatible with mobile printing. You can use the Brother iPrint&Scan app or other mobile printing apps to print directly from your phone or tablet.
Q: How can I save money on printing?
A: Consider using draft mode for less important documents, printing double-sided, and using recycled paper. You can also explore alternative printing options like online printing services or e-ink readers.
Q: What should I do if my Brother printer is not printing?
A: First, check the paper tray and ensure there’s enough paper. Then, verify that the printer is connected to your computer or network correctly. If the issue persists, consult the Brother printer’s manual or contact Brother support for assistance.
Q: Can I use a Brother printer without a computer?
A: Yes, many Brother printers support wireless printing, allowing you to print directly from your smartphone or tablet without the need for a computer.
Q: How do I update the firmware on my Brother printer?
A: You can update the firmware on your Brother printer through the Brother ControlCenter2 software or directly from the printer’s control panel. Check the Brother website for instructions specific to your printer model.
