How to Scan with Brother MFC-L2700DW: A Step-by-Step Guide

The Brother MFC-L2700DW is a versatile all-in-one printer that offers a range of functions, including scanning. Whether you need to digitize documents, photos, or receipts, understanding how to scan with this machine is essential. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, covering both basic and advanced scanning techniques.

Setting Up Your Brother MFC-L2700DW for Scanning

Before you can start scanning, you’ll need to ensure your Brother MFC-L2700DW is properly set up. This involves connecting the printer to your computer and installing the necessary software.
1. Connecting the Printer:

• USB Connection: The most straightforward method is to connect the printer to your computer using the provided USB cable. Plug one end into the printer’s USB port and the other into a USB port on your computer.
• Wireless Connection: For a more flexible setup, you can connect wirelessly. Ensure your router is broadcasting a Wi-Fi signal and follow the instructions in the printer’s manual to connect the printer to your network.

2. Installing the Software:

• Brother iPrint&Scan: This software is essential for accessing all the features of your printer, including scanning. Download and install the latest version from Brother’s website.
• Drivers: The printer drivers are necessary for your computer to recognize and communicate with the printer. These drivers are usually included in the iPrint&Scan package.

Scanning with the Brother MFC-L2700DW: Basic Steps

Once your printer is connected and the software is installed, you’re ready to start scanning. Here’s a breakdown of the basic steps:
1. Power On the Printer: Ensure the printer is turned on and ready to go.
2. Load the Document: Place the document you want to scan on the scanner glass, ensuring it’s flat and aligned with the guides. For thicker documents or books, use the automatic document feeder (ADF).
3. Select Scan Function: Access the scan function through the printer’s control panel or the Brother iPrint&Scan software.
4. Choose Scan Settings: Adjust the scan settings according to your needs, including scan resolution, color mode, and file format.
5. Start the Scan: Initiate the scan process by pressing the “Scan” button or clicking the “Start” button in the software.
6. Save the Scan: After the scan is complete, choose a location to save the scanned file on your computer.

Advanced Scanning Techniques

The Brother MFC-L2700DW offers various advanced scanning features to enhance your workflow. Here are some key techniques:
1. Scanning to Email:

• Directly from the Printer: Some Brother printers allow you to scan documents directly to email addresses. This is ideal for quick document sharing.
• Using iPrint&Scan: The Brother iPrint&Scan software lets you scan and attach documents to emails for sending.

2. Scanning to Cloud Storage:

• Cloud Services Integration: The Brother MFC-L2700DW supports various cloud services like Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive. You can scan documents directly to these platforms for easy access and sharing.

3. Scanning Multiple Pages:

• Automatic Document Feeder (ADF): The ADF allows you to scan multiple pages automatically, saving time and effort when dealing with lengthy documents.
• Batch Scanning: The iPrint&Scan software offers batch scanning capabilities, allowing you to scan multiple documents in a single operation.

4. Using the Scanner as a Copier:

• Copy Function: The Brother MFC-L2700DW has a built-in copy function, allowing you to make copies of documents directly from the printer.
• Scan-to-Copy: You can also scan a document and then copy it multiple times, either directly from the printer or using the iPrint&Scan software.

Troubleshooting Common Scanning Issues

While the Brother MFC-L2700DW is generally reliable, you might encounter some scanning issues. Here are some common problems and solutions:
1. No Scan Signal:

• Check Connections: Ensure the printer is properly connected to your computer, either via USB or Wi-Fi.
• Driver Issues: Update or reinstall the printer drivers to ensure they are compatible with your operating system.

2. Blurry or Distorted Scans:

• Document Placement: Double-check that the document is flat and properly aligned on the scanner glass.
• Scanner Glass Cleanliness: Clean the scanner glass with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove dust or smudges.

3. Scanned Images Too Dark or Light:

• Brightness Adjustment: Adjust the brightness settings in the scan settings menu or within the iPrint&Scan software.

4. Scanned Images Not Saving Correctly:

• File Format: Choose an appropriate file format for saving your scans, such as JPEG for images and PDF for documents.
• Save Location: Ensure you’re saving the scanned files to a location that your computer can access.

Mastering the Art of Scanning: Tips and Tricks

To get the most out of your Brother MFC-L2700DW’s scanning capabilities, consider these tips:

• Optimize Scan Resolution: Use a higher resolution for detailed images and documents. Choose a lower resolution for smaller files and faster scanning.
• Experiment with Color Modes: While color scans are visually appealing, grayscale or black and white scans can be more suitable for certain documents.
• Use the ADF for Multiple Pages: The ADF saves time and effort when scanning multi-page documents, ensuring consistent quality.
• Explore Scan Settings: Experiment with different scan settings to find the optimal configuration for your specific needs.

Beyond Basic Scanning: Leveraging the Brother MFC-L2700DW’s Full Potential

While scanning documents is a primary function of the Brother MFC-L2700DW, its capabilities extend beyond basic tasks. Consider these advanced applications:

• Scanning Photos: Capture high-quality digital copies of your precious memories.
• Scanning Receipts and Invoices: Organize and manage your finances effectively by digitizing receipts and invoices.
• Scanning Business Cards: Create digital contact lists by scanning business cards.
• Scanning Artwork: Preserve and share your artwork by scanning paintings, drawings, and other creations.

Moving Forward: Embracing the Future of Scanning

The Brother MFC-L2700DW provides a powerful and versatile scanning solution. By understanding the various techniques and tips outlined in this guide, you can fully leverage its capabilities. Whether you’re a home user or a small business owner, mastering the art of scanning with the Brother MFC-L2700DW can streamline your workflow, enhance productivity, and unlock a world of digital possibilities.

Popular Questions

1. Can I scan directly to a USB drive with the Brother MFC-L2700DW?
While the Brother MFC-L2700DW does not have a built-in USB port for direct scanning to a USB drive, you can scan to your computer and then save the file to a USB drive.
2. What is the maximum resolution for scanning with the Brother MFC-L2700DW?
The Brother MFC-L2700DW supports a maximum scan resolution of 1200 x 1200 dpi (dots per inch).
3. Can I scan a double-sided document using the ADF?
Yes, the Brother MFC-L2700DW’s ADF supports automatic duplex scanning, allowing you to scan both sides of a document in a single pass.
4. Is there a way to scan documents directly to a cloud storage account from the printer itself?
Yes, the Brother MFC-L2700DW supports scanning directly to cloud storage accounts like Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive. You can configure these options within the printer’s settings menu.
5. What are the recommended file formats for scanning different types of documents?

• For images: JPEG or TIFF