Master the Art of Printing: How to Print 11×17 on Brother MFC-J6555DW

Printing on a larger format like 11×17 can be a game-changer for your projects, whether you’re creating stunning posters, detailed blueprints, or eye-catching presentations. If you’re a proud owner of the Brother MFC-J6555DW, you’re in luck! This versatile printer is capable of handling those larger prints with ease. But, navigating the settings and ensuring you get the perfect results can be a bit tricky.
This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of printing 11×17 documents on your Brother MFC-J6555DW. We’ll cover everything from paper loading to software settings, ensuring you can unleash the full potential of your printer.

Getting Ready: Paper and Printer Setup

Before diving into the printing process, it’s crucial to set the stage with the right paper and printer configuration.
1. Paper Selection:

• Choose the Right Paper: The first step is selecting the correct paper for your project. 11×17 paper is readily available at most office supply stores and online retailers. Look for paper types that suit your printing needs, whether it’s plain paper for everyday printing, photo paper for high-quality images, or specialty papers for specific projects.
• Check Paper Weight: The Brother MFC-J6555DW can handle paper weights up to 32 lb. Ensure your chosen paper falls within this range to avoid jamming.

2. Loading the Paper:

• Open the Paper Tray: Locate the paper tray on the front of your printer and open it.
• Adjust the Paper Guides: Adjust the paper guides to fit the width of your 11×17 paper. Make sure the guides are snug against the paper edges to prevent misalignment.
• Load the Paper: Carefully load the paper into the tray, ensuring it’s flat and aligned with the guides.
• Close the Tray: Gently close the paper tray.

Setting the Stage: Software Configuration

Now that your printer is ready, it’s time to configure your software settings for 11×17 printing.
1. Choose Your Printing Software:

• Brother iPrint&Scan: Utilize the Brother iPrint&Scan app for seamless wireless printing from your smartphone or tablet. This app allows you to select the desired paper size and other settings directly from your mobile device.
• Brother ControlCenter2: This software provides a comprehensive range of printing options, including paper size selection, print quality, and advanced features.
• Other Software: You can also use your preferred printing software, such as Adobe Acrobat, Microsoft Word, or any other application that supports printing.

2. Paper Size Selection:

• Navigate to the Print Settings: Open your chosen software and locate the “Print” or “Print Settings” option.
• Select “11×17” or “Tabloid”: In the print settings, choose “11×17” or “Tabloid” as your paper size.
• Adjust Orientation: Select “Landscape” or “Portrait” orientation based on your document layout.

3. Advanced Settings (Optional):

• Print Quality: For high-quality prints, choose a higher print quality setting like “Photo” or “Best.” For everyday printing, “Normal” or “Draft” might suffice.
• Color Mode: If you’re printing images, select “Color” mode. For black-and-white documents, choose “Black and White.”
• Margins: Adjust the margins to your preference.

Printing Your 11×17 Document

With the printer and software set up, you’re ready to print.
1. Send Your Document to the Printer:

• Select the “Print” Button: Click the “Print” button within your software.
• Review the Print Settings: Double-check the print settings to ensure they align with your requirements.
• Initiate the Print Job: Once you’re satisfied, click “Print” or “OK” to send your document to the printer.

2. Monitor the Printing Process:

• Watch the Printer: Keep an eye on the printer as it processes your document. You should see the paper feeding into the printer and the ink cartridges working.
• Listen for Sounds: Pay attention to the printer’s sounds. A smooth, consistent sound indicates a successful print job.

3. Retrieve Your Printed Document:

• Wait for Completion: Wait for the printer to finish printing.
• Retrieve Your Print: Once the printing is complete, carefully remove your 11×17 document from the output tray.

Troubleshooting Tips

Even with careful preparation, occasional printing hiccups can occur. Here are some common troubleshooting tips:

• Paper Jam: If the printer jams, gently remove the stuck paper. Avoid forcing it, as this could damage the printer.
• Ink Cartridge Issues: Ensure your ink cartridges are installed correctly and have sufficient ink.
• Printer Driver Issues: Update your printer driver to the latest version.
• Connectivity Problems: Check your wireless or wired connection to ensure the printer is connected to your device.

Beyond Basic Printing: Exploring Advanced Features

The Brother MFC-J6555DW offers a range of advanced features that enhance your printing experience.
1. Duplex Printing:

• Save Paper: Print on both sides of the paper to save paper and reduce your environmental impact.
• Professional Look: Duplex printing gives your documents a more professional appearance.

2. Scanning and Copying:

• Scanning Documents: Scan your documents directly to your computer or mobile device.
• Copying Documents: Create copies of your documents quickly and easily.

3. Fax Functionality:

• Send and Receive Faxes: The Brother MFC-J6555DW includes a built-in fax machine for convenient communication.

Maximizing Your Printing Experience

To make the most of your Brother MFC-J6555DW, consider these tips:

• Regular Maintenance: Clean the printer regularly to prevent dust and debris buildup.
• Use Genuine Ink Cartridges: Using genuine Brother ink cartridges ensures optimal performance and print quality.
• Explore Online Resources: Visit the Brother website for helpful tutorials, troubleshooting guides, and user manuals.

Final Thoughts: Embracing the Power of 11×17

Printing on 11×17 with your Brother MFC-J6555DW opens up a world of possibilities. Whether you’re a professional designer, a student working on a large project, or simply someone who wants to create stunning prints, this printer has you covered. By following these steps and exploring the advanced features, you can unlock the full potential of your printer and elevate your printing experience.

Top Questions Asked

1. Can I print on 11×17 paper without having to manually adjust the paper guides each time?

• Answer: Yes, the Brother MFC-J6555DW has a manual paper feed slot that you can use for 11×17 paper. You don’t need to adjust the paper guides every time you print on this larger format.

2. What type of ink cartridges does the Brother MFC-J6555DW use?

• Answer: The Brother MFC-J6555DW uses four individual ink cartridges: black, cyan, magenta, and yellow.

3. Is there a way to print directly from my smartphone or tablet?

• Answer: Yes, you can print wirelessly from your smartphone or tablet using the Brother iPrint&Scan app.

4. Does the Brother MFC-J6555DW support automatic duplex printing?

• Answer: Yes, the Brother MFC-J6555DW supports automatic duplex printing, allowing you to print on both sides of the paper without manually flipping it.

5. Where can I find a user manual for the Brother MFC-J6555DW?

• Answer: You can find the user manual for the Brother MFC-J6555DW on the Brother website. You can also download the manual directly from the website.