Modern technologies allow you to manage the printing of documents and photos directly from your smartphone screen, but the initial setup of a wireless connection often causes difficulties for users. Model Canon PIXMA MG3640 It's a popular budget solution for the home, but the lack of a display on the body significantly changes the operating algorithm compared to more advanced devices. To successfully integrate this device into your home network, you need to clearly understand the sequence of keystrokes and the logic behind the indicator lights.
Pairing equipment with a router requires not only preparing the printer itself but also properly configuring the access point. Errors at this stage can result in the computer or mobile device simply not seeing the printer in the list of available resources. In this guide, we'll cover all the current methods for activating wireless mode, including using the "Printer" button. WPS, manual connection and configuration via USB cable, followed by switching to Wi-Fi.
Particular attention should be paid to the compatibility of frequency ranges, since most budget models of MFPs, including the series MG3600, operate exclusively in the 2.4 GHz band. If your router broadcasts only at 5 GHz or uses complex corporate encryption protocols, standard methods may not work without first adjusting the router settings. Let's look at how to avoid common mistakes and ensure a stable connection between your devices and printer.
Equipment preparation and compatibility testing
Before you begin setting up your wireless connection, you need to ensure that the entire infrastructure is ready for operation. The first step is to turn on the router and check its stable operation: the internet connection should be active, and the router's lights should be lit normally. For the printer, Canon PIXMA MG3640 It is critical that it is located in a strong signal reception area, ideally no more than a few meters away from the router during the setup procedure.
It's important to check the frequency your wireless network uses. As mentioned, this printer doesn't support the 5 GHz standard, so the router operates in "5 GHz only" mode, and the device simply won't be able to detect the network. Most home routers have this mode enabled by default. dual-band, when the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks have the same name, but for the initial setup, it is sometimes necessary to temporarily separate them or make sure that the smartphone from which the setup is carried out is also connected to 2.4 GHz.
It's also worth preparing the printer itself: fill the ink cartridges with ink and insert paper into the tray. Although printing is possible without paper, the self-diagnostic system at power-on may prevent entry into setup mode if it detects critical mechanical errors or missing consumables. Make sure the scanner lid is securely closed and the paper tray is pulled out until it clicks into place.
Activating wireless mode on the printer
The most important step is the translation of the device itself Canon MG3640 into connection standby mode. Since there is no screen, all communication with the user is via the blinking power indicator and wireless button. On the control panel, look for the button with an image of an antenna or smartphone (Wireless Connect). Pressing this button initiates the network search process or activates pairing mode.
To enter setup mode, press and hold the wireless button until the power light starts flashing. This usually takes about 3-5 seconds. Once the power light starts flashing, release the wireless button and immediately press it again. The power light should turn solid and the wireless light (Wireless) will start blinking, indicating that the device is ready to search for a network.
⚠️ Attention: Don't release the wireless button too soon. If the power indicator doesn't start flashing, setup mode isn't active and you'll need to press it again. Also, make sure the MFP isn't in deep sleep mode.
If you plan to use the WPS method, the wireless indicator should blink rapidly after the steps described. In manual network search mode (Infrastructure mode), the blinking may be slower, indicating the network is waiting for commands from a computer or mobile device. The exact blinking speed depends on the selected activation method, which we'll discuss in the following sections.
☑️ Printer ready for setup
Quick connection method via WPS
The easiest way to connect Canon MG3640 Wi-Fi is connected using WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) technology, if your router supports it. This allows you to avoid entering long passwords manually. There should be a button marked WPS or the corresponding icon (two arrows forming a circle). Make sure the router is turned on and sending a signal.
The procedure is very simple: first press and hold the wireless button on the printer until the power indicator flashes, then release it and press the wireless button again. The wireless indicator (Wireless) and the power indicator should start blinking alternately or simultaneously, indicating that the router is searching for a WPS signal. Within 2 minutes, press the WPS button on the router.
After successful pairing, the wireless indicator on the printer should turn solid and the power indicator should stop blinking and remain on. This means the IP address has been acquired and the device is ready to connect to the network. If the indicators blink for more than 2-3 minutes or remain orange, the connection has not been established, and you will need to repeat the process moving closer to the router.
What should I do if the WPS button on my router doesn't work?
Some ISPs disable the WPS function in their routers for security reasons. In this case, the printer's indicator will blink until the timeout expires. Use the USB cable or mobile app setup method.
Setup via USB cable and computer
If automatic methods don't work, the classic setup method via USB cable remains the most reliable. For this, you'll need a USB AB (printer) cable, which is usually included or purchased separately. Connect the cable to the computer and printer, then turn on the MFP. The computer may attempt to install drivers automatically, but for a complete Wi-Fi setup, it's best to use the official installer.
You need to download the full package of drivers and utilities for the model Canon MG3640 From the manufacturer's official website. When launching the installer, select "Wireless LAN connection" or "Wi-Fi connection." The program will prompt you to connect the device via cable if it hasn't already been connected, and will then automatically transfer the wireless network settings from your computer to the printer.
During installation, the program will ask you to select your network from the list and enter the password. After confirming the settings, the installer will prompt you to disconnect the USB cable, as further communication will be via wireless. The wireless indicator on the panel Canon PIXMA should turn blue, confirming a successful transition to wireless mode.
| Indicator | State | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Power | It's green | The device is ready for use |
| Wi-Fi (Wireless) | Flashing | Setup mode or network search |
| Wi-Fi (Wireless) | It's blue | Successful connection to the network |
| Alarm | Flashing orange | Error (out of paper, out of ink, paper jam) |
Using the Canon PRINT mobile app
For smartphone and tablet users, the most convenient way to control is the app. Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHYIt's available for iOS and Android and allows you to not only print but also scan documents directly to your phone. Before setting up, make sure your smartphone is connected to the same Wi-Fi network you plan to connect the printer to.
Launch the app and tap the add printer icon (usually in the top corner). The app will begin searching for devices. If the printer is already in setup mode (the wireless indicator is blinking), the app will detect it and prompt you to register it. You'll need to select your router from the list and enter the Wi-Fi password.
In some cases, the app may offer to connect your phone directly to the printer via Wi-Fi Direct. In this mode, the phone creates a temporary network with the printer to transfer settings. Once the settings are transferred, the phone automatically reconnects to your home network, and the printer remains connected permanently. This is especially convenient if you don't have a computer with a USB cable handy.
⚠️ Attention: When using Android, make sure the app has permission to access geolocation. Without this permission, the Android system may block scanning for available Wi-Fi networks, and you won't be able to select your router from the list.
Solving common connection problems
Even if you follow all the instructions, you may still encounter difficulties. Often, the problem lies in the router's security settings. If you use filtering by MAC addresses, the printer won't be able to connect until its address is whitelisted on the router. The device's MAC address can be found on the sticker on the back panel or by printing a network settings report (a button combination on the panel, depending on the specific firmware version).
Another common cause is a hidden SSID (network name). If your router doesn't broadcast the network name openly, the printer won't be able to find it automatically. In this case, you'll need to either temporarily enable SSID broadcasting, use the WPS setup method, which doesn't require knowing the network name, or use a USB cable to manually configure the settings.
It's also worth checking whether your router has reached its maximum number of connected devices. Budget router models may limit the number of simultaneous connections (usually 10-15 devices). If you have a lot of smart devices, try temporarily disabling some of them while you set up the printer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Canon MG3640 be connected to a 5GHz network?
No, model Canon PIXMA MG3640 Only supports the 802.11 b/g/n standard, which operates in the 2.4 GHz band. To connect to a router operating in 5 GHz mode, you must enable 2.4 GHz support in the router's settings or create a guest network in this band.
What should I do if the Wi-Fi indicator blinks and does not stop?
This means the printer can't connect to the router. Check the password you entered, make sure the router isn't using MAC filtering, and try moving the printer closer to the access point. Restarting the router may also help.
Do I need to remove the USB cable after setup?
Yes, after successfully setting up a wireless connection, you should disconnect the USB cable unless you plan to use a wired connection permanently. Simultaneous use of USB and Wi-Fi is possible, but printing from phones does not require a cable.
How do I reset network settings on a printer?
To reset network settings on Canon MG3640 Typically, you need to press and hold the wireless button until the power indicator flashes once, then release it. The exact combination may vary, so it's recommended to consult the user manual for your specific firmware version.