Modern inkjet printers have long ceased to be just peripheral devices for document output, having become full-fledged nodes of the home network. Canon PIXMA TS304 is no exception, offering users wireless printing from smartphones, tablets, and laptops without the hassle of cables. However, initial connection setup often presents challenges for those new to configuring the printer's network settings.
The main difficulty is that the device does not have a full screen for entering a password, so the entire control process is carried out through flashing indicators and buttons on the body. The correct sequence of actions This step is critical, as an error in connection mode can prevent the computer from seeing the device in the list of available printers. In this article, we'll cover all the details of the connection, from resetting old settings to installing drivers.
Before moving on to the software, make sure your hardware is ready. Make sure the printer is plugged in and the cartridges are installed and protected from drying out. Wireless module This model only operates in the 2.4 GHz range, so if your router only distributes networks at a 5 GHz frequency, the connection may not be established without appropriate changes in the router settings.
Preparing equipment and resetting network settings
The first step before setting up a new connection is to clear the printer's memory of previous configurations. This is especially important if the device was previously used with a different router or if you changed providers. Reset settings ensures that the printer will go into search mode for a new network, rather than trying to reconnect to an old, non-existent one.
To do this, locate the button on the control panel marked with a direct connection icon (usually a smartphone or Wi-Fi icon with an arrow). Press and hold this button until the power indicator flashes once, then release. Then, press the black and white copy button, then the color copy button. Finally, press the direct connection button again, then the power button.
⚠️ Attention: During the reset process, the lights may flash in a specific pattern. Do not unplug the printer until the lights stabilize, as this may cause a malfunction in the print controller.
After rebooting, the device is ready for new settings. If you just unpacked a new one Canon TS304You can skip this step, as the factory settings already include connection standby mode. However, performing a reset is always a good idea to fix software errors.
Connecting via the WPS button on the router
The fastest and easiest way to connect a printer to your home network is to use technology WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). This method allows you to automatically transfer the network password, eliminating the need to manually enter it on a computer or phone. Your router must support this feature, which is essential for modern models.
Click the button Direct (Direct Connection) on the printer control panel and hold it until the power indicator flashes. Then press the Wi-FiThe network indicator will start flashing, indicating the router is in search mode. Within two minutes, press the WPS button on your router. It's usually marked with a corresponding icon or text.
The pairing process will take between 30 seconds and 2 minutes. During this time, the network indicator on the printer will flash. Once the connection is established, the light will stop flashing and remain solid. This indicates that IP address successfully received and the device is visible on the local network.
☑️ Checking the WPS connection
Manual setup via router menu and USB
If automatic connection doesn't work or your router hides the SSID (network name), you'll have to use the manual method. To do this, you'll need a computer with a USB port and the installation disc (or the driver downloaded from the official website). Insert the installation disc or run the downloaded file. drivers for your operating system.
During installation, the program will prompt you to select a connection type. Select "Wireless LAN." When the installer prompts you to connect the printer, connect it to the computer using a USB cable. It's important to use a working cable, preferably the original length, to avoid signal loss during the transfer of installation files.
The program will automatically read the network settings and transfer them to the printer. Once the data is successfully transferred, you will see a message confirming the setup is complete, and you can disconnect the USB cable. The printer will save the settings and connect to the router automatically each time it is turned on.
| Parameter | Default value | Where to change |
|---|---|---|
| Network name (SSID) | Not set | Router settings |
| Encryption type | WPA2-PSK | WiFi Security |
| Opening hours | Infrastructure | Printer settings |
| Communication channel | Auto (1-11) | Router settings |
Using the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app
For smartphone and tablet users, the optimal solution is to use the proprietary application Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHYIt's available for iOS and Android and allows you to not only print documents but also perform initial device setup. This is especially convenient if you don't have a computer with a disc drive nearby.
Launch the app and tap the add printer icon (usually in the top corner). Select your device model from the list. The app will offer several connection methods, including transferring settings via Bluetooth (if supported) or via the printer's own temporary hotspot.
Follow the instructions on your mobile device. You'll need to select your home WiFi network from the list and enter the password. The app will automatically transfer this information to the printer. Once successfully connected, you can immediately print a test page or a photo from your gallery.
⚠️ Attention: Make sure location services (GPS) are enabled on your smartphone. In modern versions of Android and iOS, this is required for apps that scan for nearby WiFi networks to work.
Installing drivers and software
Once the physical connection is established, you need to install software that will allow the operating system to interact correctly with the printer. Windows 10/11 Drivers for Mac and macOS can be found on the manufacturer's official website in the support section. Enter the TS304 model number and download the full driver package.
Run the installer and select the "Connect via network" option. The system will begin searching for available printers on the local network. If the previous steps were followed correctly, you will see yours. Canon TS304 in the list. Select it and complete the installation.
After installation, it is recommended to check the device status through the Control Panel. In Windows, this is done through Control Panel → Devices and PrintersThe status should be "Ready" or "Online." If the device is shown as "Offline," check that "Use offline printer" is not checked in the print queue properties.
What to do if the computer does not see the printer?
Make sure your computer and printer are connected to the same router (same SSID). Check if your firewall or antivirus software is blocking network discovery. Try temporarily disabling your antivirus for diagnostics.
Troubleshooting and diagnostics
Even if you follow all the instructions, situations may arise where the printer won't connect or loses connection. A common issue is changing the WiFi password or replacing the router. In this case, you'll need to reset the printer's network settings and reconnect.
Sometimes the problem lies in the frequency range. As mentioned earlier, Canon TS304 Only works in the 2.4 GHz band. If your router broadcasts both the 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz networks under the same name, the printer may be "lost." We recommend separating these networks in your router settings by giving them different names (for example, HomeWiFi and HomeWiFi_5G) and connecting the printer to the network without a 5G adapter.
It's also worth paying attention to the number of connected devices. If there are already many devices on the network, the router may not assign a new IP address to the printer. In this case, rebooting the router or expanding the DHCP address pool in its settings will help.
Update your printer firmware regularly. The manufacturer releases firmware updates that improve wireless connection stability and compatibility with new operating system versions. You can check for updates through the installed Canon software or through the printer settings menu, if accessible through the web interface.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Canon TS304 be connected to 5GHz WiFi?
No, the TS304 model is equipped with a module that only operates in the 2.4 GHz band. To connect, make sure your router broadcasts a network in this standard.
What should I do if the WiFi indicator blinks and does not stop?
This means the printer can't find the network or the password is incorrect. Reset the network settings and try the connection process again, carefully checking the network name and password.
Do you need a USB cable for continuous operation?
No, a USB cable is only required for initial setup or if you choose to use the printer in wired mode. It is not required for wireless printing.
How to find out the IP address of a printer?
Press and hold the Stop button on the printer for a few seconds until the power light flashes. The printer will print a network settings report, which will display the current IP address.