Canon's modern Pixma series multifunctional devices offer users a wide range of wireless printing options, eliminating the need to run cables across the room. Model Canon Pixma MG3640 It's one of the most popular home solutions thanks to its compact size and Wi-Fi Direct support. Properly configured, this device allows you to print documents and photos directly from your smartphone or tablet, significantly improving ease of use at home.
However, initial connection setup often raises questions for owners unfamiliar with the nuances of network protocols and drivers. Wireless connection This requires precise execution of a sequence of steps, as the slightest error during password entry or mode selection can prevent the computer from detecting the printer. In this article, we'll cover all setup steps in detail, from hardware testing to installing specialized software.
The success of the operation depends largely on preliminary preparation and understanding how exactly the device interacts with your local network. Canon MFP A printer can operate in client mode (connecting to a router) or access point mode (Wi-Fi Direct), and it's important to clearly distinguish between these methods. Below, we'll look at the most stable and popular ways to integrate a printer into your digital ecosystem.
Preparing to set up a wireless connection
Before you begin the software setup, you need to make sure that the hardware itself is ready for wireless operation. Make sure the printer Canon Pixma MG3640 Plugged into a power outlet and in working order, as indicated by the power indicator. It's also critical that your Wi-Fi router is turned on and broadcasting the network to which you plan to connect the printing device.
The location of the equipment plays a significant role in the signal quality. If the router and printer are located in separate rooms, separated by two concrete walls, this can cause problems with large data transfers or document scanning. A line-of-sight distance of 10-15 meters is considered optimal, although modern standards allow for signal transmission through obstacles if the signal is strong enough.
For successful installation, you will need to know the name of your wireless network (SSID) and its password. Password is case sensitive, so be careful when entering characters, especially if the access code contains capital letters or special characters. If you don't remember the password, you can find it in the router settings or on the sticker on the bottom of the device.
- 📶 Check that the Wi-Fi indicator on the router is lit or blinking, confirming that it is active.
- 🔌 Make sure the printer's power cord is securely plugged into the power outlet and the power cord is connected to the wall socket.
- 📱 Prepare the device (laptop or smartphone) from which the initial setup will be performed.
- 📄 Find out the exact password for your Wi-Fi network in advance to avoid typing errors.
Don't skip the verification step, as many connection issues arise simply because of a lack of signal or incorrect access data. If your router operates in the 5 GHz band, make sure it supports mixed mode or has a separate 2.4 GHz network, as older printer models may not be able to detect higher-frequency networks.
Activating Wi-Fi Mode on the Canon MG3640 Printer
The first step in the setup process is to put the MFP itself into connection standby mode. On the device's control panel, locate the button with a smartphone image or a wireless network icon. Press and hold this button until the power indicator starts flashing, then release it.
After this, press the Color or Black Copy button to confirm the mode selection. Wireless indicator Wi-Fi The power light should light up and the power indicator should begin blinking slowly. This means the printer has entered network search mode or is waiting for a connection. If the light blinks quickly, the device is attempting to reconnect.
⚠️ Attention: If the Wi-Fi indicator doesn't light up after performing these steps, the wireless module may be blocked or require a reset. Try turning off the printer using the power button, waiting 10 seconds, and then turning it on again, repeating the activation process.
There's also an alternative menu activation method if your model supports the advanced interface, but for the MG3640 series, the button-based method is most effective. In this mode, the device creates its own network or becomes visible to operating system browsers. The connection wait time is typically limited to a few minutes, after which the printer returns to sleep mode.
Using WPS technology for fast synchronization
The easiest way to connect Canon Pixma MG3640
The easiest way to connect to the network is to use WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup), if your router supports it. This method eliminates the need to manually enter long and complex passwords. To begin, press the WPS button on your router. This button may be physical or software-based, depending on the router model.Within two minutes of activating WPS on your router, press and hold the wireless button on the printer until the power light flashes. The device will automatically find the router and exchange encryption keys. This process takes about a minute, after which the Wi-Fi light on the printer should turn solid, indicating a successful connection.
- 🔘 Find the WPS button on the back or front of your router.
- ⏱️ Please allow 2 minutes between pressing the router and the printer.
- 💡 Watch the indicator: a steady light means success, flashing means the search is in progress.
If automatic connection doesn't occur on the first try, don't panic. Sometimes you need to repeat the process, making sure you're close enough to the router. WPS technology is convenient for its simplicity, but it's less secure than manual entry, so some users prefer to disable this feature on the router after setting up all devices.
Manual setup via computer and drivers
If automatic methods don't work or you prefer full control over the process, use the official software. Download the full driver and utility package for your model. Canon MG3640 From the manufacturer's official website. Launching the installer will prompt you to select a connection type. Select "Wireless LAN connection."
The program will ask you to select your printer from a list of found devices. If the printer is in standby mode (the indicator light is blinking), the computer will detect it. You will then be prompted to select your Wi-Fi network from the drop-down list and enter the password. The installer will automatically transfer this information to the printer.
Sequence of actions in the installer:1. Run setup.exe
2. Select "Connect wirelessly"
3. Click "Next"
4. Enter SSID and password
5. Wait for the setup to complete
During installation, you may be asked to temporarily connect the printer to your computer via a USB cable. This is necessary for the initial transfer of network settings. After the program reports successful Wi-Fi setup, you can disconnect the cable. The drivers will remain in the system, allowing network printing.
☑️ Check before installing drivers
Setting up printing from mobile devices via Canon PRINT
For smartphone and tablet owners, setting up printing without a PC is a particularly important option. Canon has developed an app Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY, available for iOS and Android. After installing the app and connecting your phone to the same Wi-Fi network as the printer, the device will be automatically detected.
If the printer isn't yet connected to the router, the app may offer to set it up directly. In this mode, the phone temporarily connects to the printer's Wi-Fi signal (access point mode), transmits the home router password, and then returns to its network. This is a very convenient scenario, known as Smartphone Connect.
⚠️ Attention: When switching between the router's Wi-Fi and the printer's Wi-Fi networks, your phone may temporarily lose internet access. This is normal; please wait until the setup is complete.
The app's functionality isn't limited to just printing photos. The interface Canon PRINT
You can change printer settings, check ink levels, and even scan documents and save them directly to your phone's memory. To scan, simply place the document on the glass, select the scan function in the app, and save the result as a PDF or JPEG.| Function | Description | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Photo printing | Printing images from the gallery | Canon PRINT app |
| Scanning | Digital copy of the document | Wi-Fi connection |
| Copying | Remote start of the copier | Stable network signal |
| Monitoring | Checking ink levels | Printer active status |
Wi-Fi Direct mode: direct connection without a router
A unique feature of the model Canon Pixma MG3640
The printer supports Wi-Fi Direct. This technology allows you to connect your smartphone or laptop directly to the printer, bypassing your home router. This is ideal for situations where the internet is down or you're in a location where using the main network is prohibited.To activate this mode, press the wireless button on the printer and select the Wi-Fi Direct setting. A new network will appear on your mobile device's screen with a name that includes the printer model (e.g., Canon_MG3600_series). The connection password is usually displayed on the smartphone screen when attempting to connect or printed on the test page.
How do I find out the Wi-Fi Direct password?
You can find the password by printing the network information. To do this, press and hold the "Stop" button until the "Power" indicator flashes twice, then release it. The printer will print a page with the data, including the access code.
It's worth noting that in direct connection mode, data transfer speeds may be lower than via a router, and the internet connection on the connected device will be unavailable, as the Wi-Fi module is busy connecting to the printer. However, for urgently printing tickets or documents, this method is a lifesaver.
Diagnosing and resolving connection problems
Even if you follow the instructions exactly, you may still encounter situations where your printer isn't visible on the network. This is often due to a router security issue or a frozen device. First, try rebooting the router and printer by unplugging them from the network for 30 seconds.
If the printer's Wi-Fi light is blinking but there's no connection, check to see if the network password or SSID has changed. Also, make sure MAC address filtering isn't enabled on your router, which could block new devices. In rare cases, resetting the printer's network settings to factory defaults may help.
- 🔄 Reboot your router and MFP to update the IP addresses.
- 🔍 Check if Wi-Fi is working on other devices in the same room.
- 🛡️ Make sure your antivirus or firewall is not blocking the connection to the printer.
⚠️ Attention: Router interfaces and driver versions are subject to update. If standard methods don't work, check the latest requirements for your specific operating system on the official Canon support website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Canon MG3640 be connected to a 5GHz network?
Model Canon Pixma MG3640
Only supports the 802.11 b/g/n standard, which means it operates exclusively in the 2.4 GHz band. If your router only broadcasts 5 GHz, the printer won't see the network. You'll need to enable 2.4 GHz support in your router settings or create a guest network in that band.What should I do if my computer doesn't see my printer after setup?
Make sure your computer and printer are connected to the same network (same SSID). It's common for the PC to be connected to a guest network and the printer to the main network. Also, check that the network settings aren't set to "Public," which could hide devices.
How do I reset my printer's Wi-Fi settings?
To reset, press and hold the wireless button until the power indicator flashes a certain number of times (usually 3 times for a full reset, but check the manual for a full reset). After this, you'll need to repeat the setup process.
Does cloud printing work with this model?
Yes, the model supports cloud printing via the service Canon PRINT
and integration with AirPrint (for Apple) and Mopria (for Android). This allows you to print documents from anywhere with internet access, as long as the printer is connected to the network and turned on.