If you’ve invested in the Brother QL-820NWB label printer, you’re on track to streamline your labeling tasks with high-quality labels and exceptional features. One of the standout features of this printer is its wireless capability, which allows you to print from anywhere without the hassle of cords. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the steps to successfully connect your Brother QL-820NWB to Wi-Fi. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced user, this guide will provide you with the knowledge needed to get your printer up and running on your wireless network.
Understanding the Brother QL-820NWB
Before diving into the connection process, let’s take a moment to understand what makes the Brother QL-820NWB unique:
- Wireless Connectivity: The printer supports Wi-Fi, enabling you to print from multiple devices without physical connections.
- Versatile Labeling: It can print labels in various sizes and styles, making it perfect for both home and professional use.
- Mobile Printing: This printer is compatible with mobile printing applications, allowing you to print directly from smartphones and tablets.
By familiarizing yourself with these features, you’ll appreciate the benefits of connecting your printer to Wi-Fi.
Preparing for Connection
Before you start the Wi-Fi connection process, ensure you have everything prepared:
Gather Necessary Information
To successfully connect your Brother QL-820NWB to Wi-Fi, you need the following details:
- Wi-Fi Network Name (SSID): This is the name of your wireless network.
- Wi-Fi Password: Ensure you have the correct password for your Wi-Fi network.
Check Printer Status
Make sure your printer is powered on and in a suitable environment away from obstructions that could disrupt wireless transmission. Ensure that the printer has enough label tape and battery charge, as a low battery can interrupt the connection process.
Connecting Your Brother QL-820NWB to Wi-Fi
Now, let’s explore the steps to connect your Brother QL-820NWB to Wi-Fi.
Step 1: Access the Printer’s Control Panel
- Turn on your Brother QL-820NWB printer.
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Use the control panel on the printer to navigate. You will find the following:
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Menu Button: This button allows you to access various settings.
- Up and Down arrows: Use these to navigate through the menu options.
Step 2: Select the Network Menu
- Press the Menu button.
- Use the arrow keys to scroll through the options until you reach the Network menu.
- Select Network by pressing OK.
Step 3: Choose Wireless LAN**
- In the Network menu, scroll to WLAN.
- Select WLAN Setup and press OK.
Step 3.1: Choose Wi-Fi Setup Wizard
- Locate Wi-Fi Setup Wizard in the WLAN Setup menu.
- Press OK to start the Wizard.
Step 4: Connect to Your Wi-Fi Network
- The printer will search for available networks. Wait for the list of networks to populate.
- Use the arrow keys to find your Wi-Fi Network Name (SSID) from the list.
- Select your network and press OK.
Step 4.1: Enter Your Wi-Fi Password
- Upon selecting your network, the printer will prompt you to enter your Wi-Fi password.
- Use the control panel to input your password. You may have to change the character set depending on your password (e.g., letters, numbers).
- Once entered, press OK to proceed.
Step 5: Confirm Connection
- After entering the password, the printer will attempt to connect to the network.
- If the connection is successful, you will see a confirmation message on the printer’s display.
- If it fails, double-check your SSID and password for any errors and try again.
Setting Up the Printer on Your Devices
After successfully connecting your Brother QL-820NWB to Wi-Fi, the next step is to set up the printer on your computers and mobile devices.
Installing Drivers and Software
To print from your devices, you need to install the necessary drivers and software:
- Go to the Brother Support Website: Visit the Brother support site and navigate to the driver download section for the QL-820NWB.
- Download the Drivers: Select your operating system and download the appropriate drivers.
- Install the Software: Run the downloaded file and follow the installation instructions to complete the setup.
Adding the Printer to Windows
If you are using Windows, follow these steps to add your Brother printer:
- Open ‘Printers & Scanners’: Go to the Control Panel and find ‘Devices and Printers’ or ‘Settings’ > ‘Devices’ > ‘Printers & Scanners’.
- Add a Printer: Click on the option to add a printer or scanner.
- Select Your Printer: When your Brother QL-820NWB appears in the list, select it and click ‘Add Device’.
- Follow the Prompts: Follow any additional prompts to complete the installation.
Adding the Printer to macOS
For Mac users, use these steps:
- Open System Preferences: Click on the Apple icon and select ‘System Preferences’.
- Select Printers & Scanners: Click on ‘Printers & Scanners’.
- Add Your Printer: Click the plus (+) button to add a printer.
- Find Your Printer: From the list, select your Brother QL-820NWB and follow the prompts to complete the installation.
Mobile Printing Setup
To print labels from your smartphone or tablet, you will need to install the Brother iPrint&Label app:
- Download the App: Go to the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) and download the Brother iPrint&Label app.
- Connect the App to Your Printer: Open the app, and it should discover your printer automatically as long as your mobile device is connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Start Printing: Select the type of label you want to create and print it directly from your device.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with a straightforward setup process, issues may arise. Here are some common troubleshooting tips:
Connection Issues
- Ensure Correct SSID and Password: Verify your Wi-Fi password and SSID are entered correctly.
- Check Network Availability: Ensure your Wi-Fi network is operational and other devices can connect to it.
Printing Issues
- Ensure Drivers Are Installed: Double-check that the printer drivers are installed correctly.
- Restart the Printer and Devices: Sometimes, simply restarting your printer and the device you are printing from can resolve issues.
Maintaining Your Brother QL-820NWB
An essential aspect of getting the most out of your Brother QL-820NWB is regular maintenance. Here are a few tips:
- Keep It Clean: Regularly clean the printer heads and exterior to maintain performance.
- Update Software: Keep the printer firmware and drivers updated to benefit from the latest features and fixes.
Conclusion
Connecting your Brother QL-820NWB to Wi-Fi opens up a world of convenience and efficiency for all your labeling needs. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you will be well-equipped to set up and manage your printer effortlessly. Enjoy the freedom of wireless printing, making your label creation experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Familiarize yourself with the printer’s features and keep it well-maintained to ensure its longevity and performance. With your Brother QL-820NWB now connected to Wi-Fi, you can maximize productivity while enjoying the flexibility of mobile printing. Happy printing!
What are the initial steps to connect the Brother QL-820NWB to Wi-Fi?
To connect your Brother QL-820NWB to Wi-Fi, first, ensure that your printer is powered on and within range of your wireless network. On the printer display, navigate to the “Network” menu. From there, select “Wi-Fi” and then choose “Setup Wizard.” This will enable your printer to search for available Wi-Fi networks in the vicinity.
Once the printer identifies your network, you’ll need to enter the Wi-Fi password using the on-screen keyboard. It’s important to double-check the accuracy of the password, as any typographical errors will prevent a successful connection. After entering the password, confirm the settings and wait for the printer to connect to the network. A confirmation message will appear once the connection is established.
Can I connect the QL-820NWB to a hidden Wi-Fi network?
Yes, you can connect your Brother QL-820NWB to a hidden Wi-Fi network, but the process will be slightly different compared to connecting to a visible network. Start by navigating to the “Network” menu on the printer’s display, then select “Wi-Fi” and choose “Setup Wizard.” Instead of selecting a network from the list, scroll down and select “Other” to manually enter your network name (SSID).
After entering the SSID, you will be prompted to input your Wi-Fi password. Make sure that you input this information accurately. Once all the details are entered, confirm your settings. If everything is correct, your printer will connect to the hidden Wi-Fi network, and you’ll receive a confirmation message indicating a successful connection.
What troubleshooting steps should I take if my printer won’t connect to Wi-Fi?
If your Brother QL-820NWB fails to connect to Wi-Fi, start by checking the signal strength of your wireless network. Ensure that the printer is within range and there are no physical obstructions, such as walls or electronic devices, interfering with the signal. Restarting your printer and router can also resolve connectivity issues.
Additionally, double-check the Wi-Fi password you are entering to ensure there are no errors. If you are still having trouble, you can reset the printer’s network settings to default. This can be done by navigating to the “Network” menu and selecting “Reset Network.” After resetting, repeat the connection process from the beginning.
How can I find the IP address of my Brother QL-820NWB?
To find the IP address of your Brother QL-820NWB, start by pressing the “Menu” button on the printer’s display. Navigate to the “Network” option and select “Wi-Fi.” From there, move to the “TCP/IP” option, and you will be able to view the IP address listed. This address is crucial for network-related tasks such as configuration and troubleshooting.
Alternatively, you can print a network configuration report that includes the IP address. To do this, go back to the “Network” menu and select “Print Network Config.” This report not only contains the IP address but also other useful information about the printer’s network settings, allowing for easier management of your network connection.
Is it possible to connect my Brother QL-820NWB to multiple Wi-Fi networks?
The Brother QL-820NWB can only connect to one Wi-Fi network at a time. However, if you need to switch between multiple networks, you can do so by going into the printer’s network settings. Simply access the “Network” menu on the printer’s display, select “Wi-Fi,” and utilize the “Setup Wizard” to connect to a different network as needed.
Keep in mind that if you change Wi-Fi networks frequently, you will need to enter the password for the new network each time you connect. If you have pre-stored Wi-Fi settings, you can also delete or edit these to streamline the connection process for future use.
What are the benefits of connecting my QL-820NWB to Wi-Fi?
Connecting your Brother QL-820NWB to Wi-Fi offers numerous advantages. It allows for wireless printing, which means you can print from a computer, smartphone, or tablet without needing to connect via USB. This flexible setup enhances mobility and convenience, enabling users to print from anywhere within the range of their wireless network.
Moreover, a Wi-Fi connection simplifies multi-user scenarios. Multiple devices can send print jobs to the same printer without having to physically connect to it, making it an ideal solution for home or office environments. Additionally, it may also facilitate remote printing capabilities, allowing you to send print requests even when you are away from your printer.
What should I do if my printer is connected to Wi-Fi but not printing?
If your Brother QL-820NWB is connected to Wi-Fi but is not printing, the first step is to check the printer’s status on your device. Ensure that the correct printer is selected as the default printer. Sometimes, multiple printers can be installed, causing confusion in print jobs. From your device’s settings, confirm that the QL-820NWB is the selected printer for your print tasks.
Additionally, try restarting both your printer and the device sending the print job. This could clear any temporary communication issues. If the problem persists, check for any queued print jobs and clear them if necessary. It’s also worthwhile to run a network connection test to ensure there are no underlying connectivity issues impacting your ability to print.