What To Know
- If you’re using a wireless connection, make sure the printer is connected to your network.
- Clean the glass with a microfiber cloth and a mild cleaning solution.
- Download the latest version of the Brother printer software from the official website and install it on your computer.
If your Brother printer scanner is suddenly refusing to cooperate, you’re not alone. Many users face this frustrating issue. Luckily, most scanner problems can be resolved with some simple troubleshooting. This guide will walk you through the most common solutions, from basic checks to more advanced fixes.
1. Check the Basics: Power, Connections, and Paper
Before diving into complex solutions, let’s start with the essentials:
- Power: Ensure both your printer and computer are turned on and have adequate power.
- Connections: Verify the USB cable is securely connected to both the printer and your computer. If you’re using a wireless connection, make sure the printer is connected to your network.
- Paper: Check if there’s paper in the scanner bed. A paper jam can prevent the scanner from working.
2. Update Your Printer Drivers
Outdated drivers can cause various issues, including scanner malfunctions. Updating your printer drivers is a common solution for many problems. Here’s how:
1. Go to the Brother website: Visit the official Brother website and navigate to the support section.
2. Find your printer model: Enter your printer model number to locate the correct support page.
3. Download the latest drivers: Download the latest drivers for your operating system.
4. Install the drivers: Run the downloaded file and follow the on-screen instructions to install the new drivers.
3. Restart Your Printer and Computer
Sometimes, a simple restart can clear temporary glitches and resolve the scanner issue.
1. Turn off your printer: Press the power button to shut down the printer completely.
2. Unplug the printer: Disconnect the power cord from the printer.
3. Wait for a few minutes: Let the printer remain unplugged for at least 30 seconds.
4. Plug in the printer: Reconnect the power cord and turn the printer back on.
5. Restart your computer: Restart your computer as well.
4. Clean the Scanner Glass
Dust, fingerprints, and debris on the scanner glass can interfere with the scanning process. Clean the glass with a microfiber cloth and a mild cleaning solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the glass.
5. Check the Scanner Settings
Incorrect settings in your scanner software can also prevent it from working properly.
1. Open your scanner software: Access the Brother printer scanner software from your computer.
2. Adjust the settings: Verify the scan resolution, file format, and other settings are appropriate for your needs.
3. Test the scanner: Try scanning a document or image to see if the issue is resolved.
6. Troubleshoot Network Connections
If you’re using a wireless connection, network problems can cause scanner issues.
1. Check your Wi-Fi signal: Ensure a strong and stable Wi-Fi signal is available.
2. Restart your router: Restart your router to refresh the network connection.
3. Verify network settings: Check your printer’s network settings and ensure they match your router’s configuration.
4. Try a wired connection: If possible, connect your printer to your computer via USB to eliminate network-related issues.
7. Uninstall and Reinstall the Scanner Software
If none of the above solutions work, try uninstalling and reinstalling the scanner software. This can resolve corrupted or conflicting files.
1. Uninstall the software: Go to your computer’s Control Panel or Settings and uninstall the Brother printer software.
2. Restart your computer: Restart your computer after uninstalling the software.
3. Reinstall the software: Download the latest version of the Brother printer software from the official website and install it on your computer.
8. Contact Brother Support
If you’ve exhausted all troubleshooting steps and your scanner still isn’t working, it’s time to reach out to Brother support. They can provide personalized assistance and may suggest further troubleshooting steps or recommend a repair if necessary.
A Final Word: Don’t Panic!
Most scanner problems have simple solutions. By following these steps, you can likely get your Brother printer scanner working again. Remember to be patient and persistent, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if needed.
Top Questions Asked
Q: My scanner glass is cracked. Can I still scan?
A: It’s not recommended to scan with a cracked scanner glass. The crack can distort the image and make it difficult to scan properly. Contact Brother support for repair or replacement options.
Q: My scanner is making a strange noise. What should I do?
A: A strange noise could indicate a mechanical issue. Check for any obstructions in the scanner bed or paper path. If the noise persists, contact Brother support for assistance.
Q: I’m getting an error message when I try to scan. What does it mean?
A: Error messages can provide clues to the problem. Consult your printer’s user manual or the Brother website for specific error codes and their solutions.
Q: My scanner is scanning blank pages. Why is this happening?
A: Blank pages could indicate a problem with the scanner’s light source or sensor. Contact Brother support for assistance.
Q: My scanner is scanning documents upside down. How can I fix this?
A: The orientation of your scanned documents can be adjusted in the scanner software settings. Check the settings and select the correct orientation for your scans.
