Modern printing devices have long ceased to be just peripheral gadgets that require a constant cable connection. Wireless printing has become a standard of convenience, allowing you to send documents and photos directly from your smartphone or laptop, located anywhere in your home. However, the initial setup process often raises questions among users, especially when it comes to popular budget models of the series. Pixma.
MFP Canon MG3640 — This is a classic example of a device that combines accessibility and functionality, but requires careful handling when first connecting to the network. Unlike more advanced models, it lacks a touchscreen, and all controls are controlled via button combinations and flashing indicators. The key to successful synchronization is to precisely follow the sequence of presses, since the setup mode timer is limited by a time interval.
In this article, we'll cover not only the standard procedure but also hidden nuances often overlooked in official manuals. You'll learn how to correctly interpret indicator lights, why a laptop might not recognize a printer even after installing the drivers, and how to use WPS technology for instant pairing without entering passwords.
Preparatory stage: checking equipment and network
Before moving on to the software part, you need to make sure that the hardware is physically ready. Wireless connection This assumes your router is working properly and transmitting a signal in the 2.4 GHz band, as most printers in this series do not support the 5 GHz frequency. Make sure you know the password for your WiFi network, as you will need it for manual configuration.
Plug the MFP into a power outlet and wait for the self-diagnosis cycle to complete. The power indicator on the control panel will light, and the alarm indicator may also flash if the device is out of cartridges or the scanner lid is open. Having consumables is not critical to begin network setup, but the mechanism must be unlocked.
Pay attention to the WiFi indicator on the front of the device. If it's lit or flashing, the wireless module is active. If the indicator light doesn't light at all, the WiFi module may be disabled by software or there's a hardware issue, although this is rare on new devices.
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It is important to understand that the distance between the router and the printer during setup should be minimal. Signal This should be done reliably to avoid handshake errors during the initial handshake between devices. If the router is in another room, it's best to move the MFP closer to the signal source during setup.
Quick connection method via WPS
The easiest way to establish communication between devices is to use technology WPS (WiFi Protected Setup). This method eliminates the need to manually enter long and complex passwords, which is especially useful if you're connecting your printer using a smartphone or tablet, where entering characters is difficult.
First, make sure your router has a physical WPS button or one is available in the web interface. On the printer's control panel Canon MG3640 Find the button with a smartphone image or a WiFi icon. Press and hold it for a few seconds until the power indicator starts flashing.
⚠️ Attention: The printer's network search mode is only active for 2-3 minutes after the button is activated. If you don't press the WPS button on the router within this time, the process will have to be restarted because the timer will expire.
After activating the mode on the printer, press the WPS button on your router. The WiFi indicator on the MFP should start blinking faster, indicating the search and pairing process. Once the connection is established, the indicator will stop blinking and remain solid.
This method is ideal for users who don't want to navigate complex menus and drivers. However, if your router is located far away or doesn't support WPS (which can happen with some ISP firmware), you'll have to use the traditional software installation method.
What to do if WPS doesn't work?
If the indicator continues to flash and then goes out, pairing failed. This could be caused by weak router security (WEP instead of WPA2) or a temporary glitch. Try rebooting the router and repeating the process, shortening the time between button presses.
Classic installation via drivers from a computer
The most reliable way to ensure full functionality of the device, including scanning and maintenance, is to install the full package. drivers From the official website. The software will automatically find the device on the network and perform the necessary configuration.
Go to the official support website Canon and find the download page for the MG3640 model. It's important to download the full driver package (Full Driver & Software Package), not just the basic print driver. Run the downloaded executable file on a computer connected to the same WiFi network to which you want to connect the printer.
During the installation process, the program will prompt you to select a connection type. Select "Wireless LAN connection." Then follow the on-screen instructions: the program will ask you to turn on the printer and press the WiFi button on its body.
- 🖨️ Click the button
WiFion the printer until the power light blinks. - 📶 Select your network from the list provided by the installer.
- 🔑 Enter your WiFi network password if it is not filled in automatically.
- ✅ Wait for the message “Setup complete.”
After successful installation, we recommend performing a test print to ensure the computer and printer are "recognizing" each other. If the installation is successful, you will be able to manage the print queue and ink levels through the standard Windows or macOS interface.
Setting up printing from a smartphone via Canon PRINT
Mobile printing is one of the main reasons for purchasing wireless MFPs. This feature is implemented on iOS and Android devices using an app. Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHYIt allows you to not only print photos and documents, but also scan images directly to your phone.
Download the app from the App Store or Google Play. Before launching, make sure your smartphone is connected to your home WiFi network. Launch the app, and it will automatically search for compatible devices on the network. If the printer is already configured on your computer, it should be detected immediately.
If the printer isn't yet configured, the app will prompt you to register it. You'll need to press the WiFi button on the MFP to put it into standby mode. In the app, select your network from the list and enter the password. The process takes less than a minute.
The app's functionality allows you to change print settings, such as paper type, size, and image quality. Direct printing of photos from the gallery is also available, with the option to add frames and dates. To scan, simply tap the "Scan" button in the app interface.
Table of indicators and their meaning during setup
Understanding the signals the device sends through the lights is the key to self-diagnosis. Indicators on the panel Canon MG3640 They can indicate connection status, errors, or readiness for use. Don't ignore blinking lights, as they often indicate a specific problem.
Below is a table that explains the main states of the WiFi indicator (green light) and the alarm indicator (orange light) during the network setup process.
| WiFi indicator status | Alarm indicator status | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| It's green | It doesn't burn. | WiFi connection established successfully |
| Flashing green | It doesn't burn. | Searching for a network or connecting process |
| It doesn't burn. | Flashing orange | Connection error or incorrect password |
| Flashing green slowly | It doesn't burn. | Connection standby mode (Direct or WPS) |
If you see the orange light blinking, this indicates that the printer is unable to obtain an IP address from the router or the password was entered incorrectly. In this case, it's worth checking your router's security settings.
Troubleshooting and resetting your settings
Even if you strictly follow the instructions, situations may arise where the device freezes or doesn't see the network. Often, the problem lies in accumulated configuration errors. In such cases, it's better to reset network settings to factory values.
To perform a reset on the model MG3640 You need to turn off the device. Then press and hold the button WiFi, while simultaneously turning on the power button Power. Without releasing the WiFi button, press the button Color (Color) or the Resume button once. Release all buttons. The Power indicator should light and the WiFi indicator should start blinking.
⚠️ Attention: Resetting network settings does not delete page count data or the overall device status; it only clears WiFi and Bluetooth connection settings (if applicable).
Another common issue is incompatibility of encryption standards. Make sure your router doesn't use the outdated WEP standard, which modern drivers may block for security reasons. The optimal choice is WPA2-PSK (AES).
If your computer sees your printer but can't send print jobs, try removing the device from the Devices and Printers list in the Windows Control Panel and adding it again using the Add Printer button and selecting The printer I want isn't listed, then searching by TCP/IP address.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Canon MG3640 be connected to a 5GHz network?
No, the wireless module in this model only supports the 802.11 b/g/n standard, which operates in the 2.4 GHz band. If your router is broadcasting two networks with the same name, try temporarily disabling the 5 GHz band or separating the network names (SSIDs) in the router settings.
The printer stopped responding after changing the router, what should I do?
When you change your router, the IP address and network name change, making the old settings invalid. You'll need to reset the printer's network settings (as described above) and reinstall the drivers, specifying the new WiFi settings.
How to find the IP address of a printer on the network?
The easiest way is to print a network connection report. To do this, turn off the printer, then press and hold the button WiFiuntil the power indicator flashes once, then press the button Color and let go WiFiThe printer will print a page with technical information, including the current IP address.
Does AirPrint work on this model?
Model Canon MG3640 does not have built-in AirPrint support at the hardware level. Printing from Apple devices is only possible via the proprietary app. Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY, which acts as an intermediary between iOS and the printer.