Modern office equipment has long ceased to require the mandatory presence of a bulky cable for data transmission, and the model Canon PIXMA TS304 The printer has become a shining example of an affordable device that supports wireless technology. Users often need to print photos or documents directly from their smartphone, bypassing a desktop computer, which is especially important in small apartments or offices. The initial setup process can seem confusing due to the lack of a full-fledged display on the printer body, but understanding the indicator logic allows you to complete the task in just a few minutes.
To successfully pair your device with your mobile device, you must first ensure that your router is working properly and that your home network password is securely stored in your phone's memory. It's important to understand that wireless connection Requires both the printer and phone to be on the same local network; otherwise, they simply won't see each other. In this article, we'll cover all the steps for activating the Wi-Fi module, setting it up using standard protocols, and using the manufacturer's proprietary software.
It's worth noting that the steps may vary slightly depending on your smartphone's operating system version (iOS or Android) and the firmware update of the printer itself. If you're using this brand's equipment for the first time, familiarizing yourself with the control panel and button combinations will be the first step to comfortable operation. Let's take a look at how to transform your PIXMA TS304 into a full-fledged network printer.
⚠️ Attention: Before beginning setup, ensure that all shipping materials and orange tabs are removed from the tray, otherwise the mechanism may become locked when attempting to initialize the network modules.
Equipment preparation and compatibility testing
The first step is always physically preparing the device for operation, as software settings will not work if the printer is not ready to be turned on. Make sure the cartridges are installed correctly and the scanner lid is tightly closed, as some models block network services from starting when the lid is open. The power supply should be plugged directly into a wall outlet; using extension cords with poor connections can cause problems with the Wi-Fi module, which is sensitive to power surges.
The second important aspect is checking the compatibility of your mobile operating system with the required software. For full functionality of all functions, including scanning and printing photos, you will need to install the app. Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHYWithout this software component, you can only use basic protocols like AirPrint, which do not provide access to the printer's settings.
- 📱 Make sure your smartphone is connected to a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network, as many budget printer models do not support 5 GHz.
- 🔋 Charge your mobile device to at least 40% to ensure the setup process isn't interrupted by system power-saving modes.
- 📶 Place the printer and router no more than 3-5 meters apart during the initial configuration.
It's also worth knowing in advance the encryption type of your wireless network, although most home routers have it by default. WPA2-PSK, which is supported by all modern devices. If you have a complex corporate password or use a hidden SSID, the connection process may require manual data entry through specialized utilities. The simplicity of a home network significantly speeds up the pairing process.
⚠️ Attention: Antivirus programs or firewalls on your smartphone can sometimes block the printer search on the local network, so it's recommended to temporarily disable aggressive protection during setup.
☑️ Pre-launch check
Activating wireless mode on the printer
To Canon PIXMA TS304 If your device has started broadcasting a signal or searching for available networks, you need to put it into setup mode. On the device's control panel, there's a button marked with a smartphone or wireless network icon. Press and hold this button. The power indicator will begin flashing, indicating that the device is waiting for commands or searching for a network.
There are several activation methods, but the most reliable for initial setup is using a button combination to reset network settings. You'll need to press and hold the direct connection button (the smartphone icon) until the power indicator flashes a certain number of times. This usually takes 10-12 seconds, after which the wireless light should start flashing, indicating pairing is ready.
What do the indicator lights flash?
If the indicator is blinking quickly, it's searching for a network. If it's solid, a connection has been established. If it's blinking slowly or is orange, there's a connection error or an incorrect password.
After activating setup mode, the printer may create its own temporary network or begin broadcasting a signal for discovery by external devices. At this point, the printer model name may appear in the list of available Wi-Fi networks on your phone screen. Don't rush to connect directly to the printer if you plan to use the standard router connection, as this may interrupt the automatic configuration process.
- 🔘 Press and hold the Stop/Reset button until the A (Alarm) indicator flashes 16 times to reset the network settings to factory defaults.
- 📶 Wait until the wireless indicator (antenna icon) starts flashing blue or green.
- 📱 Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your smartphone, as newer versions of apps use it to quickly transfer your Wi-Fi password.
It's important not to interrupt this process or turn off the printer until the indicators stabilize. If the blinking stops and the light turns orange, an error has occurred and the setup mode activation procedure will need to be repeated. Often, the problem stems from pressing the button too quickly or, conversely, not holding it down long enough.
Using the Canon PRINT app to set up
The most convenient and functional way to connect is to use the official application. Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY, which is available for iOS and Android. After installation and launch, the app will automatically prompt you to add a new device if location and Bluetooth are enabled on your phone. This is a modern standard that allows the app to scan the airwaves for new Canon printers.
During the registration process, the device will ask you to select your printer from a list of found ones or add it manually. The app will automatically detect the model. TS304 and will prompt you to share your home Wi-Fi network settings. All you have to do is confirm the action and, if necessary, enter your router password if it isn't saved automatically.
| Application function | Description of the opportunity | Need for connection |
|---|---|---|
| Photo printing | Printing images with color correction | Wi-Fi is required |
| Scanning | Translation of documents into digital format | Wi-Fi is required |
| Monitoring | Checking ink levels in cartridges | Wi-Fi is required |
| Cloud printing | Print from anywhere in the world (via services) | Internet access required |
If the automatic search fails, the app will offer a manual setup method, which requires you to follow the on-screen instructions step by step. You can select your router from the list and enter the password, after which the app will transfer this data to the printer. Successful completion of the procedure will be confirmed by a change in the blinking pattern of the device's indicator.
Connecting via the standard Wi-Fi protocol (WPS)
For users who do not want to install additional applications or use devices with limited rights, there is a connection method via WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). This method allows you to connect your printer and router with a simple press of a button, bypassing the password entry step. However, to use this method, your router must support this technology and have a corresponding physical or software button.
To start the process, you need to press the WPS button on the router body, and then activate the WPS mode on the printer within two minutes. Canon PIXMA TS304On the printer, this is done by pressing the wireless button until the corresponding indicator appears. The devices will begin exchanging encryption keys, and the connection should be established automatically within a minute.
This method is fast, but some cybersecurity experts consider it less secure. Therefore, WPS may be disabled by default in new routers. If the router doesn't respond to presses or the printer's indicator turns orange, this method didn't work, and you should proceed to manual setup via the app.
- 🔗 Press the WPS button on the router and hold it for 3-5 seconds until the security indicator starts blinking.
- 🖨️ On the printer, press the Wireless button and the Color Copy button at the same time to activate WPS mode.
- ⏳ Wait about a minute until the wireless indicator turns solid, indicating a successful connection.
⚠️ Attention: Router interfaces and firmware are constantly updated by manufacturers, so the location of the WPS button or the presence of this function in the web interface may differ from what is described; please check your router's manual.
Setting up a Direct Connect
Mode Direct Connect allows you to connect your smartphone directly to the printer without using an intermediate router. In this case, the printer itself Canon PIXMA TS304 Acts as an access point, creating its own Wi-Fi network. This is ideal for printing documents while visiting friends, at the dacha, or in the office, where access to the main network is limited or the password is unknown.
To activate this mode, press and hold the direct connection button on the printer panel until the mobile network indicator lights up. The printer model name, with or without the name of the network you need to connect to, will appear in the list of available networks on your phone screen. The password for connecting is usually found on a sticker on the device or in the instructions.
The main drawback of this method is that your smartphone won't have internet access while printing, as it switches to the printer's network. After printing, you'll need to manually return to your Wi-Fi settings and reselect your home network to restore internet access.
Direct Connect activation sequence:1. Press the "Direct" button (smartphone).
2. Hold until the power indicator flashes.
3. Select the "Canon_TS304_series" network on your phone.
4. Enter the password (by default it is often “12345678” or indicated on the case).
Using a direct connection is especially useful when you urgently need to print a ticket or document and don't have a computer nearby. Data transfer quality in this mode is also high, allowing you to print high-resolution photos without the lag typical of congested public networks.
Troubleshooting connection issues and errors
Even if you follow the instructions carefully, there may be situations when the printer Canon PIXMA TS304 The printer refuses to connect to the network. Most often, the problem stems from incompatible security standards or the router broadcasting a 5 GHz network, which the printer doesn't see. In such cases, you need to go to the router settings and ensure that the 2.4 GHz network is active and has a separate name (SSID).
Another common error is entering the Wi-Fi password incorrectly. Since the printer doesn't have a display, you can't see the error, and the device simply tries to connect repeatedly until it times out. In this case, a complete reset of the printer's network settings and repeating the process, paying particular attention to letter case and special characters, can help.
If the wireless indicator is flashing at long intervals or is orange, this may indicate a weak signal. Try moving the printer closer to the router or removing any physical obstructions, such as microwave ovens or thick concrete walls, that could block the signal.
Why can't my phone see my printer on the network?
Make sure both devices are connected to the same network (guest networks often isolate devices). Also, check if your phone's antivirus software is blocking local device detection.
How to reset network settings on Canon TS304?
Press and hold the wireless button until the power light flashes a certain number of times (usually 10-12), or use the reset button combination described in the instructions.
Can a printer be connected to 5GHz Wi-Fi?
No, the TS304 model only supports the 802.11 b/g/n standard at 2.4 GHz. Make sure your router broadcasts in this range.
If problems persist and nothing else helps, we recommend updating the drivers on your computer or reinstalling the app on your phone. Sometimes a software conflict in the mobile device's operating system prevents network printing protocols from working correctly.
Secret Method to Restart a Network
Unplug the router and printer for 30 seconds. Turn on the router first, wait until it fully boots up, and only then turn on the printer. This clears the DHCP cache.