The modern pace of life dictates its own rules, and the need to print a document or photo often arises at the most inconvenient moment, when a computer is not at hand. Those lucky enough to own technology Brother They can easily accomplish this task using just their smartphone and a wireless network. Mobile printing has become a standard of convenience, allowing data to be transferred instantly, without unnecessary wires or complex PC settings.
In this article, we'll take a detailed look at all the available methods for connecting a mobile device to this brand's printing equipment. You'll learn how to set it up. Wi-Fi Direct, use a proprietary app, or utilize the built-in operating system protocols. Proper setup will ensure stable operation and high print quality at all times.
The connection setup process may vary slightly depending on your device model and operating system version. However, the basic principles remain the same for most devices in the line. HL, DCP And MFCLet's take a step-by-step look at how to turn your gadget into a powerful printing remote control.
Equipment preparation and compatibility testing
Before setting up, make sure your printer is ready for use. First, turn on the printer and ensure there's paper in the trays and the cartridges are installed correctly. If the device is new, you may need to remove the transport belts and perform an initial calibration through the printer's control panel.
It's crucial to check your model's wireless support. Not all budget devices have a built-in module. Wi-Fi, so the presence of an antenna or the corresponding symbol on the device is a must. Also, check that the router is broadcasting in the 2.4 GHz band, as many printers don't detect 5 GHz networks.
Your smartphone must also meet the minimum requirements. For users iPhone will require iOS version 9.0 or later, and for owners Android — version 4.4 or higher. Make sure your mobile device is connected to the same wireless network you plan to connect the printer to.
⚠️ Note: Menu interfaces and item names may vary depending on the specific model and year of manufacture of the device. If you don't see the options described, check the online user manual on the manufacturer's official website.
There are several basic connection methods, each with its own advantages. The choice depends on whether you have a router, whether you need internet access while printing, and your personal preferences.
Using the Brother iPrint&Scan app
The most functional way to interact with a smartphone is to install the official software. Application Brother iPrint&Scan available for free in stores App Store And Google PlayIt provides advanced control over your device, allowing you to not only print but also scan documents directly to your phone.
After installation, launch the app and click the device selection button. If your printer and phone are on the same Wi-Fi network, the app will automatically find the device. If the automatic search doesn't yield any results, you can select the device from the list or add it manually. IP address.
The app's functionality allows you to choose the paper size, media type, and print quality. You can print photos from your gallery, documents from cloud storage, or web pages. To scan, simply select "Scan," adjust the settings, and save the result to your phone's memory or send it via email.
Setting up Wi-Fi Direct for printing without a router
Technology Wi-Fi Direct Allows you to create a direct wireless connection between your phone and printer, bypassing your home router. This is ideal for printing in the office or when visiting, where access to the main network may be restricted or protected by a complex password. In this mode, the printer itself becomes an access point.
To activate the mode, find the button on the printer control panel. Wi-Fi Direct or enter the network settings menu. The network name (SSID) and connection password will be displayed on the device's screen. The network name typically includes the word "DIRECT" and the device model, for example, Brother-XXXX.
Next, take your phone, open the list of available Wi-Fi networks, and find the corresponding name. Enter the password shown on the printer screen. After a successful connection, your phone may temporarily lose internet access as it switches to a direct connection with the device.
☑️ Checking Wi-Fi Direct settings
This method is primarily intended for local printing of documents and photos stored in the smartphone's memory.
Printing via AirPrint and Mopria
Apple device owners can use the built-in function AirPrint, which doesn't require any additional drivers or apps. The technology works out of the box on all modern devices. iPhone And iPadThe main condition is that both devices must be on the same wireless network.
For users Android The equivalent is a standard print service, often based on a protocol MopriaMost modern smartphones already have it built into the system. If automatic detection doesn't occur, you can download the "Brother Print Service Plugin" from the Google Play Store, which will add the necessary drivers to the system.
The printing process is extremely simple: open a document or photo, tap the "Share" button or the menu (three dots), and select "Print." Your device should appear in the list of available printers. Once selected, you can configure the number of copies and page range, then confirm the action.
What to do if the phone doesn’t see the printer?
Make sure Client Isolation isn't enabled on your router, which prevents devices on the same network from seeing each other. Also, try rebooting your router and printer.
Print quality using standard system tools is generally high, but the range of settings is limited to basic parameters. For complex image processing or customizing specific paper parameters, it's best to use a proprietary application.
Comparison of connection methods
The optimal connection method depends on your needs and operating conditions. Below is a comparison table to help you decide.
Internet access
| Method | Need a router | Difficulty of setup | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brother iPrint&Scan | Yes | Eat | Low |
| Wi-Fi Direct | No | No | Average |
| AirPrint / Mopria | Yes | Eat | Very low |
| USB OTG | No | No | High |
As the table shows, using a router offers more capabilities, including access to cloud services. However, a direct connection offers the advantages of mobility and independence from external infrastructure.
Solving common problems
Even with proper setup, issues may still occur. Often, the problem lies in an unstable signal or IP address conflict. If printing is slow or interrupted, try moving closer to the router or printer. Distance and the presence of concrete walls can significantly weaken the signal.
Another common cause of errors is outdated device firmware. Manufacturers regularly release updates to improve compatibility with new mobile OS versions. You can check for updates through the printer menu or web interface.
⚠️ Caution: When updating your printer firmware, ensure the device is connected to a stable power source. Interrupting the process of writing data to memory may damage the hardware.
If your phone sees the printer but can't send a document, try clearing the print queue on your mobile device. Sometimes stuck print jobs can block the entire system. Resetting the network settings on the printer itself via the menu also helps. Network Reset.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to connect a Brother printer to a phone without a Wi-Fi router?
Yes, this is possible using Wi-Fi Direct technology. The printer creates its own network, which the phone connects to. Connection via a USB cable using an OTG adapter is also possible, if the printer and phone model support this mode.
Why can't the app find the printer on the network?
Most often, your phone and printer are connected to different networks (for example, one network is 2.4 GHz, the other is 5 GHz, and the router isolates them). Also, make sure that local network access is enabled in your phone's privacy settings.
Does my old Brother printer support printing from my phone?
Most models released after 2012 support AirPrint or Google Cloud Print (although Google's cloud service has been discontinued, local protocols remain). Check your model's specifications for the AirPrint or Wi-Fi logo.
How do I change my printer's IP address if it's not static?
To assign an IP address, it's best to use the router settings (address reservation by MAC address). You can access the menu on the printer itself. Network -> WLAN -> TCP/IP and manually enter a static address if you know the range of your network.
Is it safe to print via Wi-Fi Direct in a public place?
Using Wi-Fi Direct is more secure than open networks because the connection is established directly. However, the default password is often written on the printer's case or screen, so it's best to keep an eye on the printer's screen in crowded areas.