Brother Printer Won't Scan : Complete Guide

Mills Stanley Updated by Mills Stanley

Brother Printer Won't Scan

If your Brother printer won’t scan, it can be a significant inconvenience, especially if you rely on your printer for important documents and tasks. Scanning issues can arise due to various reasons, including connectivity problems, software conflicts, or hardware issues. This guide provides a concise approach to diagnosing and fixing scanning problems with your Brother printer.

1. Check Basic Connections

1.1 Ensure Proper Connections
  1. Verify USB Cable:
    • If you’re using a USB connection, ensure that the USB cable is securely connected to both your Brother printer and your computer. Disconnect and reconnect the cable to make sure it’s properly seated.
  2. Check Network Connection:
    • For network printers, ensure that your printer is connected to the same network as your computer. Verify that the printer is connected to the Wi-Fi network or Ethernet.
1.2 Restart Devices
  1. Restart Printer:
    • Turn off your Brother printer using the power button. Wait for 30 seconds, then turn it back on. This can resolve temporary glitches.
  2. Restart Computer:
    • Restart your computer to refresh the system and clear any temporary software issues that might be affecting the scanning function.

2. Verify Scanner Settings

2.1 Check Scanner Mode
  1. Access Scanner Settings:
    • On your computer, open the Brother software and navigate to the scanner settings or control panel.
  2. Select Correct Mode:
    • Ensure that the scanner is set to the correct mode (e.g., color or black and white) and that the settings match your scanning needs.
2.2 Update Scanner Software
  1. Check for Updates:
    • Visit the Brother Support website and search for your printer model to find the latest scanner drivers and software updates.
  2. Install Updates:
    • Download and install any available updates. Keeping your software up to date can resolve compatibility issues and improve performance.

3. Troubleshoot Software and Drivers

3.1 Reinstall Scanner Drivers
  1. Uninstall Existing Drivers:
    • Go to Control Panel > Programs and Features (or Applications on macOS) and uninstall the current scanner drivers.
  2. Download and Install New Drivers:
    • Visit the Brother Support website, download the latest drivers for your printer model, and install them. Follow the installation instructions provided.
3.2 Check for Software Conflicts
  1. Close Conflicting Programs:
    • Ensure that no other programs or applications are using the scanner or causing conflicts. Close any unnecessary software and try scanning again.
  2. Run Diagnostic Tools:
    • Use any built-in diagnostic tools provided by Brother or your operating system to identify and resolve software conflicts.

4. Examine Hardware Issues

4.1 Inspect the Scanner Glass
  1. Clean the Glass:
    • Open the scanner lid and clean the scanner glass with a soft, lint-free cloth dampened with glass cleaner. Avoid using abrasive materials that could scratch the glass.
  2. Check for Obstructions:
    • Ensure there are no obstructions or debris on the scanner glass or within the scanner mechanism.
4.2 Test with a Different Document
  1. Use a Different Document:
    • Try scanning a different document to rule out issues with the specific document you were trying to scan.
  2. Check for Paper Jams:
    • Ensure there are no paper jams or foreign objects in the printer that could be affecting the scanning process.

5. Check Firewall and Security Settings

5.1 Adjust Firewall Settings
  1. Allow Scanner Software:
    • Ensure that your firewall or antivirus software is not blocking the scanner software. Add exceptions for the Brother scanning software if necessary.
  2. Disable Firewall Temporarily:
    • As a test, temporarily disable your firewall to see if it resolves the scanning issue. Re-enable it afterward and adjust settings as needed.

6. Contact Brother Support

6.1 When to Seek Help
  1. Persistent Issues:
    • If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and your Brother printer still won’t scan, it may be time to seek professional help.
  2. Brother Support Resources:
    • Visit the Brother Support website or call Brother customer support for assistance. Provide detailed information about the issue and the troubleshooting steps you’ve already taken.
6.2 Prepare for Support
  1. Gather Information:
    • Before contacting support, gather details about your printer model, error messages, and the steps you’ve taken to troubleshoot.
  2. Follow Guidance:
    • Follow the instructions provided by Brother support representatives to resolve the issue or arrange for repairs if necessary.

7. Conclusion

If your Brother printer won’t scan, the problem could be related to connectivity, software, or hardware issues. Start by checking basic connections and restarting your devices. Verify scanner settings and ensure that your drivers and software are up to date. Inspect the hardware for any issues and adjust your firewall and security settings as needed. If the problem persists, contact Brother support for professional assistance. By following these steps, you can diagnose and resolve scanning issues effectively and get your Brother printer back to full functionality.

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