What To Know
- A common reason for a printer to refuse to print is a paper jam or a problem with the paper tray.
- If possible, try connecting the printer to a different USB port on your computer.
- If you’re using a wireless connection, ensure your router is working properly and your printer is connected to the correct network.
Are you facing a frustrating situation where your trusty Brother HL-L2350DW printer refuses to cooperate? You’re not alone. Many users encounter issues where their printer seems to be “asleep” or unresponsive. This blog post will guide you through various troubleshooting steps to effectively “wake up” your Brother HL-L2350DW and get it printing again.
Power Cycle: The First Line of Defense
The most common and often effective solution is a simple power cycle. This involves turning off your printer and restarting it. Here’s how:
1. Turn off the printer: Press the power button on your Brother HL-L2350DW and wait for it to completely shut down.
2. Unplug the power cord: Disconnect the power cord from the printer’s back.
3. Wait a few minutes: Allow the printer to remain unplugged for at least 30 seconds. This allows any residual power to dissipate.
4. Plug the power cord back in: Reconnect the power cord to the printer.
5. Turn on the printer: Press the power button to turn the printer back on.
After the power cycle, check if your printer is responding. If not, proceed to the next troubleshooting step.
Check the Paper Tray and Paper Path
A common reason for a printer to refuse to print is a paper jam or a problem with the paper tray. Here’s how to investigate:
1. Open the paper tray: Carefully remove the paper tray from the printer.
2. Inspect the paper path: Look for any visible paper jams or obstructions in the paper path.
3. Remove any jammed paper: Gently remove any jammed paper, taking care not to tear it.
4. Check the paper guides: Ensure that the paper guides are properly adjusted for the paper size you’re using.
5. Reinsert the paper tray: Carefully reinsert the paper tray, ensuring it’s securely in place.
If you find a paper jam, clear it completely before attempting to print again.
Verify the USB Connection
If you’re using a USB connection, ensure it’s secure and functioning correctly. Here’s how to check:
1. Inspect the USB cable: Look for any visible damage, such as frayed wires or bent connectors.
2. Reconnect the USB cable: Disconnect the USB cable from both the printer and your computer. Then, reconnect it firmly.
3. Try a different USB port: If possible, try connecting the printer to a different USB port on your computer.
4. Test the connection: Try printing a test page to see if the connection is working.
If you’re using a wireless connection, ensure your router is working properly and your printer is connected to the correct network.
Update the Printer Drivers
Outdated or corrupted printer drivers can cause printing problems. Updating your drivers can resolve these issues. Here’s how to update them:
1. Go to the Brother website: Visit the official Brother website (https://www.brother.com/).
2. Find your printer model: Search for your specific printer model, the Brother HL-L2350DW.
3. Download the latest drivers: Download the latest drivers for your operating system.
4. Install the drivers: Follow the on-screen instructions to install the new drivers.
5. Restart your computer: Once the drivers are installed, restart your computer to ensure they are properly implemented.
After updating the drivers, try printing again.
Reset the Printer to Factory Defaults
If the above steps don’t resolve the issue, resetting the printer to its factory defaults can sometimes help. This erases all custom settings and restores the printer to its original configuration.
Caution: Resetting your printer will erase all customized settings, including your wireless network settings. You’ll need to reconfigure them after the reset.
1. Locate the reset button: Consult your printer’s manual to find the reset button. It’s usually located on the back or bottom of the printer.
2. Press and hold the reset button: Press and hold the reset button for several seconds (usually around 10 seconds).
3. Release the button: Once the printer starts blinking or displaying a message, release the reset button.
4. Reconfigure your settings: After the reset, you’ll need to reconfigure your wireless network settings and any other customized preferences.
A Final Check: Examine the Toner Cartridge
If your printer still refuses to print, the problem might lie with the toner cartridge.
1. Check the toner level: Look at the toner cartridge gauge on your printer’s display. If it’s low, replace the cartridge.
2. Inspect the toner cartridge: Carefully examine the toner cartridge for any damage or leaks.
3. Try a new toner cartridge: If the existing cartridge is damaged or seems to be the problem, try replacing it with a new one.
Time to Seek Professional Help
If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps above and your Brother HL-L2350DW still won’t print, it’s time to consider seeking professional help. There might be a more complex technical issue that requires the expertise of a qualified technician.
Troubleshooting Success: A Final Word
Successfully waking up your Brother HL-L2350DW printer can be a satisfying experience. Remember, troubleshooting often involves a process of elimination, so be patient and systematic in your approach. By following these steps, you can increase your chances of resolving the issue and getting your printer back up and running.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is my Brother HL-L2350DW printer not printing in color?
A: The Brother HL-L2350DW is a monochrome laser printer, meaning it only prints in black and white. It’s not designed for color printing.
Q: My printer is making strange noises. What should I do?
A: Strange noises can indicate a mechanical problem. Try turning off the printer and checking for any visible obstructions in the paper path. If the noises persist, contact Brother support for assistance.
Q: How do I know if my printer is connected to my wireless network?
A: Check the printer’s control panel or display. If it shows a wireless icon, it’s likely connected to your network. You can also check your router’s settings to see if the printer is listed as a connected device.
Q: My printer is printing blank pages. What could be the issue?
A: Blank pages can be caused by a variety of factors, including low toner, a jammed paper path, or a problem with the toner cartridge. Check the toner level, inspect the paper path, and consider replacing the toner cartridge.
