How to Scan Using Brother MFC L2690DW: Top Tips You Need to Know!

The Brother MFC-L2690DW is a versatile multifunction printer that can handle a variety of tasks, including printing, copying, faxing, and scanning. But if you’re new to using this device, figuring out how to scan documents can seem daunting. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, covering everything from basic scanning to more advanced features. Whether you’re a home user or part of a small office, this guide will empower you to unlock the full potential of your Brother MFC-L2690DW.

Getting Started: The Basics of Scanning

Before diving into the specifics, let’s cover the fundamentals of scanning with your Brother MFC-L2690DW. The process is remarkably straightforward:
1. Power on your printer: Ensure your Brother MFC-L2690DW is powered on and ready to go.
2. Place your document: Carefully place your document face down on the scanner glass. If you’re scanning multiple pages, use the automatic document feeder (ADF) for convenience.
3. Select the scan function: On the control panel, locate the “Scan” button or icon. Pressing this will initiate the scanning process.
4. Choose your settings: Depending on your needs, you can adjust scan settings like resolution, color mode, and file format.
5. Start the scan: Confirm your settings and press the “Start” button to begin the scan.

Scanning to a Computer: Connecting and Software

The most common way to scan documents is by sending them directly to your computer. Here’s how to achieve this:
1. Connect your printer: The Brother MFC-L2690DW supports both wired and wireless connections. You can connect via USB cable or configure a wireless connection using the printer’s control panel or the Brother iPrint&Scan app.
2. Install the software: Download and install the latest Brother MFC-L2690DW driver and software package from the Brother website. This ensures compatibility and provides you with the necessary tools for scanning.
3. Launch the software: Once installed, launch the Brother software. You’ll find a variety of scanning options, including “Scan to PC,” “Scan to Email,” and “Scan to Cloud.”
4. Select scan settings: Choose your desired scan settings, such as document type, resolution, color mode, and file format.
5. Initiate the scan: Press the “Scan” button to start the scanning process. Your scanned document will be saved to your computer’s designated location.

Advanced Scanning Features: Beyond the Basics

The Brother MFC-L2690DW offers a range of advanced features to enhance your scanning experience. Explore these options to maximize your productivity:
1. Scanning to Email: Send scanned documents directly to email recipients through the Brother software. This feature is ideal for sharing documents with colleagues or clients.
2. Scanning to Cloud Storage: Integrate your Brother MFC-L2690DW with popular cloud storage services like Dropbox, Google Drive, or OneDrive. Scan documents directly to your chosen cloud storage, making them accessible from any device.
3. Scanning to a USB Drive: If you need to save your scans directly to a portable drive, the Brother MFC-L2690DW allows you to do so. Simply insert a USB drive into the printer’s USB port and select the “Scan to USB” option.
4. Scanning Multiple Pages: The ADF (Automatic Document Feeder) enables you to scan multiple pages consecutively, streamlining the process for multi-page documents.
5. Scanning Business Cards: With the included business card scanning feature, you can easily capture contact information from business cards and store it digitally for future use.

Troubleshooting Common Scanning Issues

While the Brother MFC-L2690DW is generally reliable, you may encounter occasional scanning issues. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
1. Blank or Corrupted Scans: Ensure the scanner glass is clean and free of debris. Check that the document is placed flat and securely on the glass. If using the ADF, verify that the pages are properly aligned and free of wrinkles or folds.
2. Scanner Not Recognized: Make sure your printer is properly connected to your computer, either via USB cable or wireless network. Check the printer’s status lights and ensure it’s not in an error state. If necessary, reinstall the Brother software.
3. Scanned Documents Are Too Dark or Light: Adjust the scan settings to modify brightness and contrast. Experiment with different settings until you achieve the desired result.
4. Scanned Documents Are Not Sharp: Increase the scan resolution in the settings. Higher resolution results in sharper images, but also larger file sizes.
5. Unable to Scan to Email or Cloud: Verify your email settings and cloud storage account credentials. Ensure you have a stable internet connection.

Optimizing Your Scanning Experience: Tips and Tricks

By implementing these tips, you can further enhance your scanning experience with the Brother MFC-L2690DW:
1. Use the Correct Document Type: Select the appropriate document type (e.g., text, photo, or mixed) in the scan settings for optimal results.
2. Adjust Resolution Based on Needs: For text-heavy documents, a lower resolution might suffice. For images and graphics, opt for a higher resolution to capture details.
3. Utilize Preset Scan Profiles: The Brother software offers preset scan profiles for common document types (e.g., invoices, business cards). These profiles automatically optimize scan settings for specific documents.
4. Experiment with Color Mode: If you’re scanning black and white documents, choose “Black & White” mode to save file size and reduce scanning time.
5. Explore Advanced Features: Take advantage of features like automatic page turning in the ADF, duplex scanning, and document skew correction.

Farewell to Scanning Frustrations: A Final Thought

Mastering the art of scanning with the Brother MFC-L2690DW is a breeze with the right guidance. By understanding the basics, exploring advanced features, and troubleshooting common issues, you can unlock a world of scanning possibilities. Embrace the convenience and efficiency of this multifunction printer, and bid farewell to scanning frustrations.

Frequently Discussed Topics

1. Can I scan documents directly to a mobile device?
Yes, the Brother iPrint&Scan app allows you to scan documents directly to your smartphone or tablet. Simply download the app, connect your device to the printer’s wireless network, and follow the instructions to start scanning.
2. How do I scan a double-sided document?
The Brother MFC-L2690DW supports duplex scanning. Simply select the “Duplex” option in the scan settings, and the printer will automatically scan both sides of the document.
3. What file formats can I scan to?
The Brother MFC-L2690DW supports various file formats, including JPEG, TIFF, PDF, and PNG. You can choose the desired format based on your needs and intended use.
4. Can I scan photos?
Yes, you can scan photos using the Brother MFC-L2690DW. Use the scanner glass for single photos or the ADF for multiple photos. Adjust the scan settings to achieve optimal results for your photos.
5. How do I clean the scanner glass?
To ensure optimal scanning quality, clean the scanner glass regularly with a soft, lint-free cloth and a mild cleaning solution. Avoid abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals that could damage the glass.