Canon's modern PIXMA TS304 series printers are designed for maximum mobility, allowing you to print documents and photos directly from your smartphone or tablet without cumbersome cables. However, to take full advantage of wireless technology, the device must be properly integrated into your home network. The initial setup process may seem complicated due to the lack of a full-fledged display, but it's quite easy even for inexperienced users if you follow the steps.
Before starting the software, make sure the device is physically ready for use. This means the cartridges are installed, the protective tape is removed, the printer is plugged in, and the power indicator is on. The most important condition is that your router must be turned on and broadcasting the network, and the computer or phone from which you will be setting it up must already be connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
There are several proven methods for activating the wireless module, each with its own unique features. We'll cover the standard software setup method, as well as the direct connection option, which is often used if the automatic network search fails. Pay close attention to the blinking indicators on the module, as they indicate the current connection status.
Equipment preparation and compatibility testing
The first step before starting configuration is a detailed inspection of the device and testing. Make sure the printer is within a strong signal range, ideally no more than 5-10 meters from the router, with no thick concrete walls between them. Canon PIXMA TS304 Supports 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi standards, which provides sufficient speed for document transfer, but antenna sensitivity may vary depending on interference.
- 🔌 Make sure the power cable is securely inserted into the socket and the device is turned on using the Power button.
- 📶 Check that the WLAN or Wi-Fi indicator on your router is lit, indicating that the broadcast is active.
- 📱 Prepare a device (smartphone or PC) that is already connected to the target wireless network.
- 🔋 If you're using a laptop for setup, make sure it's not in power-saving mode, which can disable the Wi-Fi adapter.
Pay special attention to your router's frequency range. Although many modern routers are dual-band, older printer models sometimes only see 2.4 GHz networks. If your router is broadcasting two networks with the same name, try temporarily separating them or forcing your phone to connect to the 2.4 GHz network before setting up the printer.
⚠️ Attention: Do not place the operating printer too close to a microwave oven or strong sources of radio interference during the pairing procedure, as this may result in data transfer failure and the need to repeat the procedure again.
Standard setup via Easy-WebPrint EX and software
The most reliable way to ensure stable operation of all device functions is to use the official software. First, you'll need to download the drivers and utility. Canon IJ Network Tool From the official support website. This method is preferable because the program will automatically find the device on the network and prompt you to enter your router's settings.
After downloading the installation file, run it and follow the on-screen instructions. When it comes to selecting the connection type, select "Wireless LAN" or "Wi-Fi." The program will ask you to select your network from the list of available networks. At this point, the printer should enter connection standby mode, indicated by a blinking direct connection indicator (usually a phone or direct line).
Sequence of actions in the installation wizard:1. Launch the driver installer.
2. Select connection type: Wireless connection.
3. Search for the device on the network.
4. Enter the Wi-Fi password (if not transferred automatically).
During the installation process, you may need to temporarily connect your computer and printer with a USB cable. This is necessary so that the program can transfer the Wi-Fi settings directly to the device's memory. Once the printer receives your network information, it will disconnect the USB connection and attempt to go online. The Wi-Fi indicator on the printer should turn solid, indicating successful completion.
Setting up via the WPS button on the router
If your router has a physical button WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) significantly simplifies the setup process. This method automatically transfers the network password, eliminating the need to manually enter it on a computer or phone. This is ideal for those who don't want to install complex software or navigate through lengthy menus.
To use this method, press and hold the WPS button on your router for 2-3 seconds until the WPS indicator starts blinking. Immediately afterward, within 2 minutes, you must activate network search mode on the printer itself. Press the Direct Connect button on the control panel. PIXMA TS304 and hold it until the power indicator flashes once.
- 🔘 Press the WPS button on the router (the indicator will blink).
- 🖨️ Press and hold the "Direct" button on the printer until you hear a beep.
- ⏳ Please wait about a minute for the devices to exchange encryption keys.
- ✅ The Wi-Fi indicator on the printer should be constantly on.
It's worth noting that the WPS method doesn't work with all router models, especially if your ISP has blocked this feature or you're using non-standard hardware. If the printer's Wi-Fi light continues to flash or goes out after two minutes, the connection hasn't been established, and you'll need to use manual setup via your computer.
What to do if the WPS button does not work?
The WPS function may be disabled in your router's security settings or not supported by your ISP. In this case, use the USB cable or mobile app setup method.
Using the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app
For smartphone and tablet users, the most convenient option is to use a mobile app. Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHYThis method allows you to configure your printer without a computer or USB cables, completely over the air. The app is available for iOS and Android operating systems and is the primary tool for managing the device in everyday life.
Launch the app and tap the "Add Printer" button. The app will prompt you to register the device. If the printer isn't yet connected to the network, the app will ask you to press and hold the direct connect button on the printer until the power light flashes. Your phone will then find the printer within line of sight and offer to share your home Wi-Fi settings with it.
| Setup stage | User action | Device response |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Launch | Open the Canon PRINT app | Search for printers on the network |
| 2. Registration | Click "Register Printer" | Request to activate the mode |
| 3. Activation | Hold down the Direct button on the printer | Power indicator blinking |
| 4. Configuration | Select the network and enter the password | The Wi-Fi indicator is on |
A key advantage of this method is the ability to scan documents directly into the app and upload them to cloud storage. After successful setup, be sure to update the printer firmware through the same app if prompted, as new software versions often contain fixes for connection errors.
Direct wireless connection (Canon PRINT Direct)
There are scenarios where connecting to the main router is impossible or unnecessary, such as when printing from a guest laptop or if the router is temporarily unavailable. In this case, the "Shared Mode" mode is used. Direct WirelessThe printer itself creates an access point to which your devices connect, bypassing the central router.
To activate this mode, press the Direct Connection button on the printer's control panel. The screen or indicators will indicate that Direct Mode has been activated. On your computer or phone, a name beginning with "Canon_ij_..." will appear in the list of available Wi-Fi networks. Connect to this network using the password, which is usually found on a sticker on the inside of the device or printed in the instructions.
Once connected to the printer's access point, you can print documents, but keep in mind that in this mode, the device connected to the printer will likely lose internet access. This is because the Wi-Fi module of your phone or laptop switches to the printer's network and cannot simultaneously connect to the ISP's network (unless a second adapter is used).
⚠️ Attention: In direct connection mode, data transfer speed may be lower, and some features such as cloud scanning or weather updates will not be available due to the lack of global network access.
Diagnosing and resolving connection problems
Even if you follow all the instructions, you may encounter situations where the printer refuses to detect the network or continually loses connection. Often, the problem lies in the router's security settings or signal interference. If the Wi-Fi indicator is blinking, it means it's searching for a network or transmitting data; if it's lit, a connection has been established; if it's off, the module is disabled or faulty.
One common cause of problems is a MAC address filter on the router. If you have a whitelist of devices enabled, you need to find the printer's MAC address (by printing a network settings report or looking at the sticker) and add it to the allowed addresses on the router. Also, try changing the Wi-Fi channel in the router settings to 1, 6, or 11 to avoid interference with neighboring networks.
- 🔄 Restart your router and printer: unplug both devices for 30 seconds, then turn on the router, wait for it to boot up, and only then turn on the printer.
- 📡 Check the distance: Move the printer closer to the router to rule out signal strength issues.
- 🔐 Reset network settings: Press and hold the Direct Connect button until the power light flashes to reset the printer's network settings to factory defaults.
- 💻 Check your antivirus: Sometimes the firewall on your computer blocks the printer from being detected on the network.
If all else fails, perform a full printer reset. This usually requires pressing and holding a specific button combination (often the "Stop" button or a combination of the power and reset buttons; see the manual for your specific revision for details). After the reset, you'll have to go through the setup process again, as if the device were brand new.
☑️ Checklist for a successful connection
Why doesn't the printer see the 5 GHz network?
The Canon PIXMA TS304, like many devices in its class, only supports the 2.4 GHz frequency band. If your router only broadcasts a 5 GHz network or combines them into a single network with 5 GHz as the priority, the printer may not detect the network. Solution: Enable a separate 2.4 GHz network or enable compatibility mode in your router settings.
How to find out the IP address of a printer?
To find your IP address, you need to print a network configuration report. Press the direct connect button on your printer repeatedly until the information light (usually the letter "i" or a document icon) lights up, then press the color or black and white copy button. The printer will output a sheet with technical information, including the IP address.
Is it possible to connect a printer to a hidden network?
Connecting to a hidden network (SSID Hidden) is possible, but requires manual configuration via a computer using a USB cable or through the router's menu if it supports WPS Push Button. Connecting to a hidden network via a mobile app is usually more difficult, as the phone may not broadcast the network name (SSID).