What To Know
- Whether you need to digitize documents, photos, or receipts, mastering the scan function can streamline your workflow and save you time.
- Scan to a connected computer, a USB drive, or a network folder.
- You can even set the scan settings to create a single multi-page PDF file.
Are you ready to unlock the full potential of your Brother MFC-L2710DW printer? This multi-functional device isn’t just for printing – it’s a powerful scanning tool as well. Whether you need to digitize documents, photos, or receipts, mastering the scan function can streamline your workflow and save you time. This guide will walk you through every step, from basic scans to advanced techniques, ensuring you can confidently scan with your Brother MFC-L2710DW.
Getting Started: Setting Up Your Brother MFC-L2710DW for Scanning
Before you begin scanning, it’s essential to make sure your printer is properly connected and configured. Follow these steps:
1. Connect Your Printer: The Brother MFC-L2710DW offers several connectivity options:
- USB: Connect your printer to your computer using a USB cable.
- Ethernet: Connect your printer to your network via an Ethernet cable.
- Wi-Fi: Connect your printer to your wireless network.
2. Install the Software: Download and install the latest drivers and software for your Brother MFC-L2710DW from the Brother website. This ensures you have access to all the necessary tools for scanning.
3. Paper Tray and Document Feeder: Load the paper tray with the appropriate paper type for your scan. For multiple-page documents, use the Automatic Document Feeder (ADF).
Scanning from Your Computer: The Easy Way
The most common way to scan with your Brother MFC-L2710DW is directly from your computer using the installed software. Here’s how:
1. Open the Brother Software: Find the Brother software on your computer, often named “Brother iPrint&Scan” or “Brother ControlCenter.”
2. Select “Scan”: Click on the “Scan” or “Scan to Computer” option within the software.
3. Choose Your Settings: You’ll be presented with several options:
- Scan Type: Select “Document” for text-based documents or “Photo” for images.
- Resolution: Higher resolution means larger file sizes but better image quality.
- File Format: Choose the desired format, such as PDF, JPEG, or TIFF.
- Destination: Specify where you want to save the scanned file.
4. Place Your Document: Place your document on the flatbed scanner or feed it through the ADF.
5. Start the Scan: Click “Scan” or “Start” to begin the process.
Scanning with the Printer’s Control Panel: For Quick Tasks
For quick scans without using your computer, the printer’s control panel offers a convenient way to initiate scans. Here’s how:
1. Access the Control Panel: Locate the control panel on your Brother MFC-L2710DW.
2. Select “Scan”: Find the “Scan” or “Scan to” button on the panel.
3. Choose Your Settings: Use the navigation buttons to select your desired settings, including:
- Scan Type: Document or Photo
- Resolution: Low, Medium, or High
- File Format: PDF, JPEG, or TIFF
- Destination: Scan to a connected computer, a USB drive, or a network folder.
4. Place Your Document: Place your document on the flatbed scanner or feed it through the ADF.
5. Start the Scan: Press the “Start” or “Scan” button to initiate the scan.
Advanced Scanning Techniques: Unleash Your Creativity
The Brother MFC-L2710DW is capable of more than just basic scans. Explore these advanced features:
- Scanning Multiple Pages: Use the ADF to scan multiple pages automatically. You can even set the scan settings to create a single multi-page PDF file.
- Scanning to Cloud Services: Connect your printer to cloud services like Dropbox, Google Drive, or OneDrive to scan documents directly to your cloud storage.
- Scanning with Special Effects: Some Brother software allows you to apply effects like grayscale, color adjustment, or cropping to your scans.
- Scanning Business Cards: The Brother MFC-L2710DW can scan business cards and automatically extract contact information, making it easy to create digital address books.
Tips for Optimizing Your Scans
For the best possible scan results, follow these tips:
- Clean Your Scanner: Dust and debris can affect scan quality. Use a soft, lint-free cloth to clean the scanner glass and ADF rollers.
- Proper Lighting: Ensure adequate lighting when placing documents on the flatbed scanner.
- Experiment with Settings: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different scan settings to find the best combination for your needs.
- Use a High-Quality Document: For the clearest scans, use crisp, clean documents without wrinkles or creases.
Understanding Scan Settings: A Closer Look
To achieve optimal scan results, it’s important to understand the various scan settings:
- Scan Type: Choose “Document” for text-based documents and “Photo” for image-based materials.
- Resolution: Measured in dots per inch (dpi), resolution determines the clarity and detail of your scans. Higher resolution means larger file sizes but better image quality.
- File Format: Select the appropriate file format for your needs:
- PDF (Portable Document Format): Preserves the original formatting and layout of documents.
- JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group): A popular format for images, known for its compression capabilities.
- TIFF (Tagged Image File Format): A high-quality format suitable for professional printing or archival purposes.
- Color Mode: Choose “Color” for full-color scans, “Grayscale” for black and white scans, or “Black & White” for text-only scans.
Going Beyond the Basics: Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with a powerful scanner like the Brother MFC-L2710DW, you might encounter occasional issues. Here’s how to troubleshoot common problems:
- Scan Errors: If you experience scan errors, check the paper tray for jams or misfeeds. Make sure the document is flat and free of wrinkles.
- Poor Scan Quality: Ensure proper lighting, clean the scanner glass, and experiment with different resolution settings.
- Connectivity Issues: Verify your printer’s connection to your computer or network. Check your Wi-Fi signal strength.
- Software Problems: Update your Brother software to the latest version. If necessary, reinstall the software.
The Final Word: Unlocking the Power of Your Brother MFC-L2710DW
By mastering the scan function of your Brother MFC-L2710DW, you’ll unlock a world of possibilities. From digitizing important documents to archiving family photos, this multi-function printer becomes a valuable tool for your home or office. Remember to experiment with different settings, troubleshoot any issues, and enjoy the convenience and flexibility that scanning offers.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Can I scan directly to a USB drive?
A: Yes, you can scan directly to a USB drive using the printer’s control panel. Simply insert a USB drive into the printer’s USB port, select “Scan to USB” on the control panel, and follow the prompts.
Q: What is the maximum scan resolution for the Brother MFC-L2710DW?
A: The Brother MFC-L2710DW has a maximum scan resolution of 1200 x 1200 dpi.
Q: Can I scan photos using the ADF?
A: It’s not recommended to scan photos using the ADF. The ADF is designed for documents and may damage or wrinkle photos. Use the flatbed scanner for photos.
Q: How do I scan a document to a specific folder on my computer?
A: When using the Brother software to scan, you can choose the specific folder where you want to save your scan. Simply select the desired folder in the “Destination” settings.
Q: Can I scan multiple documents at once using the ADF?
A: Yes, you can scan multiple documents at once using the ADF. The printer will automatically scan each page and create a single multi-page PDF file unless you specify otherwise.
