What To Know
- Place your document in the automatic document feeder (ADF) or on the flatbed scanner, depending on your needs.
- If you prefer using your computer, Brother ControlCenter software offers scanning features that allow you to send documents directly to your email.
- Then, you can share the documents via a link or download them to your device.
In today’s digital age, paper documents are slowly fading into the background. But sometimes, you still need to scan a physical document and send it electronically. If you own a Brother printer, you’re in luck! Brother printers offer a convenient way to scan documents directly to your email address. This blog post will guide you through the process, step-by-step, making it easy to send scanned documents without hassle.
Understanding the Basics: Why Scan to Email?
Scanning documents to your email address is a valuable feature for several reasons:
- Convenience: It eliminates the need to physically transport documents or save them to a local device.
- Efficiency: You can scan and send documents directly from your printer, saving time and effort.
- Accessibility: You can access scanned documents from any device with an internet connection.
- Sharing Made Easy: You can quickly share scanned documents with colleagues, clients, or friends.
Preparing Your Brother Printer for Scanning
Before you begin scanning, ensure your Brother printer is ready:
1. Connect your printer to Wi-Fi: Your printer needs to be connected to your home or office network.
2. Install the Brother iPrint&Scan App: The Brother iPrint&Scan app is essential for scanning directly to your email. Download the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
3. Set up an Email Account: Ensure you have a working email account with sufficient storage space for scanned documents.
Scanning from Your Brother Printer to Email: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now, let’s get into the actual scanning process:
1. Power On Your Printer: Turn on your Brother printer and ensure it’s ready to scan.
2. Open the Document Feeder: Place your document in the automatic document feeder (ADF) or on the flatbed scanner, depending on your needs.
3. Launch the iPrint&Scan App: Open the Brother iPrint&Scan app on your smartphone or tablet.
4. Select “Scan”: Tap the “Scan” button within the app.
5. Choose “Scan to Email”: From the available scanning options, select “Scan to Email.”
6. Enter Email Details: Enter the email address you want to send the scanned document to.
7. Customize Scan Settings: Adjust settings like scan resolution, document type, and color mode as needed.
8. Confirm and Scan: Review your settings and tap “Scan” to start the scanning process.
9. Monitor the Progress: The app will display the scanning progress.
10. Verify and Send: Once scanning is complete, the app will prompt you to review the scanned document. If everything looks good, tap “Send” to email the document.
Troubleshooting Common Scanning Issues
While the process is usually straightforward, you might encounter some issues. Here’s how to troubleshoot common problems:
- Connection Issues: Ensure your printer is connected to your Wi-Fi network and that your device is connected to the same network.
- App Problems: Update the Brother iPrint&Scan app to the latest version. If the issue persists, try reinstalling the app.
- Email Configuration: Double-check your email address and ensure it’s entered correctly.
- Large File Sizes: If you are scanning high-resolution documents, the file size might be too large for your email provider. Reduce the scan resolution or compress the scanned file before sending it.
- Printer Errors: Consult your Brother printer’s manual or contact Brother support for specific error codes.
Alternative Scanning Methods for Your Brother Printer
While the iPrint&Scan app is the most convenient method, you have other options for scanning to email:
- Brother ControlCenter Software: If you prefer using your computer, Brother ControlCenter software offers scanning features that allow you to send documents directly to your email.
- Scan to Cloud Storage: Instead of sending directly to email, you can scan documents to cloud storage services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive. Then, you can share the documents via a link or download them to your device.
Beyond the Basics: Advanced Scanning Tips
Here are some additional tips to enhance your scanning experience:
- Use the Right Resolution: For simple text documents, a lower resolution (like 150 dpi) is sufficient. For images or documents with detailed graphics, opt for a higher resolution (like 300 dpi).
- Experiment with Scan Settings: Different scan settings might produce better results depending on the document type. Try different settings to find what works best for you.
- Optimize File Size: If you need to send large files, consider compressing them before emailing them. This reduces the file size and makes them easier to send and download.
- Proofread Before Sending: Always review the scanned document before sending it to ensure accuracy and clarity.
Embracing the Digital Future: The Benefits of Scanning
Scanning documents from your Brother printer to email is a simple yet powerful tool for streamlining your workflow. By embracing this digital solution, you can:
- Minimize Paper Waste: Reduce your reliance on paper documents and contribute to a greener environment.
- Boost Productivity: Save time and effort by eliminating the need for manual document handling.
- Improve Collaboration: Share documents easily with colleagues, clients, and partners.
- Enhance Security: Store important documents in a secure digital format, reducing the risk of loss or damage.
FAQs About Scanning from Your Brother Printer
Q: Can I scan to multiple email addresses at once?
A: No, the Brother iPrint&Scan app only allows you to scan to a single email address at a time.
Q: What file formats can my Brother printer scan to?
A: Most Brother printers support common file formats like PDF, JPEG, and TIFF. Refer to your printer’s manual for specific supported formats.
Q: How can I change the default scan settings?
A: You can change the default scan settings through the Brother iPrint&Scan app or the Brother ControlCenter software.
Q: Can I scan double-sided documents?
A: Yes, if your Brother printer has an automatic document feeder (ADF), you can scan double-sided documents.
Q: What should I do if my printer is not connecting to my Wi-Fi network?
A: Ensure your printer is within range of your Wi-Fi router. Check the Wi-Fi password and try restarting both your printer and router. If the issue persists, consult your printer’s manual or contact Brother support.
Final Thoughts: A Seamless Scanning Solution
Scanning documents from your Brother printer to email is a convenient and efficient way to manage your documents in the digital age. By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you can easily scan, send, and share your documents without any hassle. Embrace the power of technology and enjoy a seamless scanning experience that saves you time, effort, and paper.