What To Know
- If your ink or toner levels are low, the printer might automatically pause to alert you to refill the cartridges.
- A paper jam is the most likely reason for a paused printer.
- If the printer is simply paused due to a user action, you can unpause it directly from the control panel.
Ever encountered the dreaded “Paused” message on your Brother printer? It’s a frustrating experience, especially when you’re in the middle of an urgent print job. But fear not! This comprehensive guide will walk you through various methods on how to unpause your Brother printer, getting you back to printing in no time.
Understanding the “Paused” State
Before diving into the solutions, it’s crucial to understand why your Brother printer might be paused. Here are some common reasons:
- Paper Jam: A paper jam is the most frequent culprit. When paper gets stuck in the printer, it usually triggers a pause to prevent further damage.
- Low Ink or Toner: If your ink or toner levels are low, the printer might automatically pause to alert you to refill the cartridges.
- Connectivity Issues: Network connectivity problems can also cause the printer to pause. This might happen if the printer loses its connection to your computer or Wi-Fi network.
- Manual Pause: You might have accidentally paused the printer yourself, either through the printer’s control panel or from your computer.
Method 1: Check for Paper Jams
A paper jam is the most likely reason for a paused printer. Here’s how to troubleshoot it:
1. Open the Printer: Carefully open the printer’s cover or access panel where the paper tray is located.
2. Locate the Jam: Examine the paper path for any visible paper jams. You might find pieces of paper stuck in the rollers, the output tray, or other areas.
3. Remove the Jam: Gently pull out any stuck paper, making sure not to tear it. If the paper is torn, try to remove as much of it as possible. Avoid using sharp objects to remove the jam, as this could damage the printer.
4. Close the Cover: Once you’ve removed the jam, close the printer cover or access panel.
Method 2: Check Ink or Toner Levels
Low ink or toner can cause your Brother printer to pause. Here’s how to check and address it:
1. Check Ink Levels: On your printer’s control panel, look for an ink level indicator. It usually displays the remaining ink levels for each cartridge.
2. Replace Cartridges: If any of the ink cartridges are low or empty, replace them with new ones.
3. Resume Printing: Once you’ve replaced the cartridges, try to print again. The printer should automatically resume printing.
Method 3: Verify Connectivity
If your Brother printer is connected to a network, ensure the connection is stable. Here’s how:
1. Check Wi-Fi Signal: Make sure your router is turned on and your Wi-Fi signal is strong.
2. Reconnect the Printer: If the connection seems weak, try restarting your router and your printer. This often resolves connectivity issues.
3. Verify Network Settings: On your computer, check the printer’s network settings to ensure they’re correct.
Method 4: Unpause from the Printer Control Panel
If the printer is simply paused due to a user action, you can unpause it directly from the control panel:
1. Locate the Pause Button: On your printer’s control panel, look for a button that says “Pause,” “Stop,” or a similar symbol.
2. Press the Button: Press the button once to unpause the printer. The “Paused” message should disappear, and the printer should resume its task.
Method 5: Unpause from Your Computer
You can also unpause your Brother printer from your computer. The steps may vary slightly depending on your operating system and printer model:
1. Open the Printer Queue: On your computer, open the printer queue. This can usually be done through the “Devices and Printers” or “Printers & Scanners” settings.
2. Locate the Paused Job: In the printer queue, find the job that is currently paused.
3. Unpause the Job: Right-click on the paused job and select “Resume” or “Unpause.” This will restart the printing process.
Time to Wrap Up: Get Back to Printing!
You’ve now explored several methods for unpausing your Brother printer. By following these steps, you’ll be able to tackle the “Paused” message and get back to printing your documents, photos, and other important files. Remember, it’s always a good practice to keep your printer’s software and drivers up-to-date, as this can help prevent future issues.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q1: My Brother printer is paused, but I don’t see any paper jams or low ink. What could be wrong?
- A: The printer might be paused due to a temporary error or a glitch in the system. Try restarting the printer or your computer to see if that resolves the issue.
Q2: I’ve tried everything, but my Brother printer is still paused. What should I do?
- A: If you’ve exhausted all the troubleshooting steps, it’s best to contact Brother’s customer support for assistance. They can provide more specific guidance based on your printer model and the issue you’re facing.
Q3: Can I prevent my Brother printer from pausing in the future?
- A: While you can’t always prevent pauses entirely, you can minimize their occurrence by keeping your printer clean, using high-quality paper, and ensuring your ink levels are sufficient.
Q4: What does it mean when my Brother printer says “Paused” and “Offline”?
- A: This usually indicates a connectivity issue. Check your network connection, restart your router and printer, and verify the printer’s network settings.
Q5: My Brother printer is paused, and I can’t print anything. Will this affect my warranty?
- A: A paused printer doesn’t usually affect the warranty. However, if you’re experiencing repeated issues or believe the printer might be malfunctioning, it’s always best to contact Brother’s support to discuss the situation.
