What To Know
- Connect one end of an Ethernet cable to the Ethernet port on your Brother ADS-1700W and the other end to an available Ethernet port on your router or network switch.
- If your computer doesn’t recognize the scanner, check the USB cable connection, ensure the driver is installed correctly, and restart both your computer and the scanner.
- If you’re using a network connection, ensure your scanner is connected to the correct Wi-Fi network or the Ethernet cable is properly plugged in.
Are you ready to streamline your document scanning process with the powerful Brother ADS-1700W? This document scanner offers a plethora of features, including automatic document feeding, duplex scanning, and high-resolution output. But before you can start scanning, you need to know how to connect your Brother ADS-1700W to your computer. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, from initial setup to troubleshooting potential issues.
Setting the Stage: Essential Preparation
Before diving into the connection process, let’s ensure you have everything you need:
- Brother ADS-1700W Document Scanner: Make sure you have your scanner unpacked and ready to go.
- Computer: You’ll need a computer with an available USB port or a network connection (depending on your preferred method).
- Scanner Driver: Download the latest driver for your specific operating system from the Brother website. This driver is crucial for your computer to recognize and communicate with the scanner.
- Power Cable: Connect the power cable to the scanner and plug it into a working power outlet.
Method 1: Connecting via USB Cable
The USB connection method is the most straightforward and commonly used for initial setup. Here’s how to connect your Brother ADS-1700W to your computer using a USB cable:
1. Locate the USB Port: On your Brother ADS-1700W, you’ll find a USB port typically located on the back or side of the scanner.
2. Connect the USB Cable: Use the provided USB cable to connect the scanner to your computer’s available USB port.
3. Install the Driver: Once connected, insert the installation disc that came with your scanner or download the latest driver from the Brother website. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the driver.
4. Test the Connection: After the driver installation is complete, open a scanning application on your computer (like Windows Fax and Scan or Brother’s iPrint&Scan software). If the scanner is detected, you’re ready to start scanning.
Method 2: Connecting via Network (Wi-Fi or Ethernet)
For a more flexible setup, you can connect your Brother ADS-1700W to your network using Wi-Fi or Ethernet. This allows you to scan from multiple computers on the same network.
Connecting via Wi-Fi:
1. Enable Wi-Fi on your Scanner: On the scanner’s control panel, navigate to the Wi-Fi settings and enable Wi-Fi.
2. Connect to Your Network: Choose your home or office Wi-Fi network from the list and enter the password if prompted.
3. Install the Driver: Install the driver for your operating system from the Brother website. During the installation process, the driver will automatically detect the scanner on your network.
Connecting via Ethernet:
1. Connect the Ethernet Cable: Connect one end of an Ethernet cable to the Ethernet port on your Brother ADS-1700W and the other end to an available Ethernet port on your router or network switch.
2. Install the Driver: Install the driver for your operating system from the Brother website. The driver will automatically detect the scanner on your network.
Troubleshooting Common Connection Issues
While connecting your Brother ADS-1700W is generally straightforward, you might encounter some issues. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
- Scanner Not Detected: If your computer doesn’t recognize the scanner, check the USB cable connection, ensure the driver is installed correctly, and restart both your computer and the scanner.
- Network Connection Issues: If you’re using a network connection, ensure your scanner is connected to the correct Wi-Fi network or the Ethernet cable is properly plugged in.
- Driver Installation Errors: If you encounter driver installation errors, download the latest driver from the Brother website, disable your antivirus software temporarily, and try installing the driver again.
- Scanner Not Responding: If the scanner isn’t responding, check the power connection and ensure the scanner is turned on. You might also need to restart the scanner or your computer.
Unlocking the Potential: Using Your Brother ADS-1700W
Once your Brother ADS-1700W is successfully connected, you can start scanning documents with ease. Here are some tips for maximizing your scanning experience:
- Utilize the Control Panel: Your scanner’s control panel provides quick access to scan settings, including resolution, document size, and color mode.
- Explore the Software: Brother provides user-friendly software (like iPrint&Scan) that offers advanced features like automatic document feeding, duplex scanning, and document editing.
- Optimize Scan Settings: Adjust the scan settings based on your document type and intended use. For example, use a higher resolution for archival purposes and a lower resolution for quick scans.
- Utilize the Document Feeder: The automatic document feeder allows you to scan multiple documents without manually placing each page.
Beyond the Basics: Advanced Features and Tips
The Brother ADS-1700W offers a range of advanced features to enhance your scanning experience. Here are some notable features:
- Automatic Document Feeder (ADF): The ADF allows you to scan multiple documents without manually loading each page. This is ideal for batch scanning large volumes of documents.
- Duplex Scanning: This feature enables you to scan both sides of a document in a single pass, saving you time and effort.
- High-Resolution Scanning: The Brother ADS-1700W offers high-resolution scanning capabilities, producing clear and detailed images for archival purposes or professional documents.
- Scan to Cloud: You can directly scan documents to cloud storage services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive, making it easy to share and access your documents from anywhere.
Embracing Efficiency: Tips for Optimal Scanning
Here are some tips for maximizing the efficiency of your Brother ADS-1700W:
- Organize Your Documents: Before scanning, organize your documents into logical categories to make it easy to find them later.
- Use Consistent Naming Conventions: Employ a consistent naming system for your scanned documents, making it easier to locate them on your computer or in your cloud storage.
- Utilize Scan Profiles: Create scan profiles for different document types (like receipts, invoices, or photos) to save time and ensure consistent scan settings.
- Regularly Clean the Scanner: Keep your scanner clean to ensure optimal performance and prevent paper jams.
Beyond the Scan: Exploring Further Applications
The Brother ADS-1700W isn’t just for scanning documents. You can also use it for:
- Scanning Photos: Capture your precious memories by scanning old photos and converting them into digital format.
- Scanning Business Cards: Store contact information from business cards in your digital address book for easy access.
- Scanning Receipts: Keep track of your expenses by scanning receipts and storing them digitally.
- Scanning Artwork: Preserve your artwork by scanning it and creating digital copies for sharing or archiving.
Your Brother ADS-1700W: A Gateway to Digital Efficiency
Connecting your Brother ADS-1700W to your computer opens a world of possibilities for efficient document management and digital workflows. By following these steps and exploring the advanced features, you can unleash the full potential of this powerful scanner and streamline your document handling processes.
What You Need to Know
Q: Can I connect my Brother ADS-1700W to multiple computers at the same time?
A: No, the Brother ADS-1700W can only be connected to one computer at a time. However, you can connect it to your network using Wi-Fi or Ethernet, allowing multiple computers on the same network to access the scanner.
Q: What types of documents can I scan with the Brother ADS-1700W?
A: The Brother ADS-1700W can scan a wide variety of documents, including paper, plastic cards, and even thick books.
Q: Can I scan to a specific folder on my computer?
A: Yes, you can specify the destination folder for your scanned documents using the scanner’s software or control panel.
Q: What is the maximum resolution that the Brother ADS-1700W can scan?
A: The Brother ADS-1700W can scan at a maximum resolution of 600 x 600 dpi.
Q: How do I clean the scanner?
A: To clean your Brother ADS-1700W, use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the scanner’s exterior and the document feed area. Avoid using any harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
