Brother Printer MP 21C User Manual

Brother Mobile Full Color Inkjet Printer  
MP-21C/CDX  
User’s Guide  
Please read this manual thoroughly before using the printer.  
Keep this manual in a convenient place for quick and easy reference at all times.  
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(For USA & CANADA Only)  
For technical and operational assistance, please call:  
In USA  
1-877-284-3238  
949-859-9700 Ext. 329  
1-800-853-6660  
514-685-6464  
(outside California)  
(within California)  
In Canada  
(within Montreal)  
If you have comments or suggestions, please write us at:  
In USA  
Printer Customer Support  
Brother International Corporation  
15 Musick  
Irvine, CA 92618  
In Canada  
Brother International Corporation, Ltd.  
1, Rue Hôtel De Ville  
Dollard-des-Ormeaux P.Q.  
Canada H9B3H6  
BBS  
For downloading drivers from our Bulletin Board Service, call:  
In USA  
In Canada  
1-888-298-3616  
1-514-685-2040  
Please log on to our BBS with your first name, last name and a four digit  
number for your password. Our BBS supports modem speeds up to 14,400,  
8 bits no parity, 1 stop bit.  
Fax-Back System  
Brother Customer Service has installed an easy to use Fax-Back System so  
you can get instant answers to common technical questions and product  
information for all Brother products. This is available 24 hours a day, 7 days  
a week. You can use the system to send the information to any fax machine,  
not just the one you are calling from.  
Please call 1-800-521-2846 (USA) or 1-800-681-9838 (Canada) and follow  
the voice prompts to receive faxed instructions on how to use the system and  
your index of Fax-Back subjects.  
DEALERS/SERVICE CENTERS (USA only)  
For the name of an authorized dealer or service center, call 1-800-284-4357.  
SERVICE CENTERS (Canada only)  
For service center address in Canada, call 1-800-853-6660  
INTERNET ADDRESS  
For technical questions and downloading drivers:http://www.brother.com  
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UJ5351001  
Printed in Japan  
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Mobile Full Color Inkjet Printer  
MP-21C/CDX  
USER’S GUIDE  
(For USA & CANADA Only)  
For technical and operational assistance, please call:  
In USA  
1-877-284-32387746  
949-859-9700 Ext. 329  
1-800-853-6660  
(outside California)  
(within California)  
In CANADA  
514-685-6464  
(within Montreal)  
If you have comments or suggestions, please write us at:  
In USA  
Printer Customer Support  
Brother International Corporation  
15 Musick  
Irvine, CA 92718  
In CANADA  
Brother International Corporation (Canada), Ltd.  
- Marketing Dept.  
1, rue Hôtel de Ville  
Dollard-des-Ormeaux, PQ, Canada H9B 3H6  
BBS  
For downloading drivers from our Bulletin Board Service, call:  
In USA  
In CANADA  
1-888- 298-3616  
1-514-685-2040  
Please log on to our BBS with your first name, last name and a four digit number for your  
password. Our BBS supports modem speeds up to 14,400, 8 bits no parity, 1 stop bit.  
Fax-Back System  
Brother Customer Service has installed an easy to use Fax-Back System so you can get  
instant answers to common technical questions and product information for all Brother  
products. This is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can use the system to send the  
information to any fax machine, not just the one you are calling from.  
Please call 1-800-521-2846 (USA) or 1-800-681-9838 (Canada) and follow the voice prompts to  
receive faxed instructions on how to use the system and your index of Fax-Back subjects.  
DEALERS/SERVICE CENTERS (USA only)  
For the name of an authorized dealer or service center, call 1-800-284-4357.  
SERVICE CENTERS (Canada only)  
For service center addresses in Canada, call 1-800-853-6660  
INTERNET ADDRESS  
For technical questions and downloading drivers: http://www.brother.com  
i
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Trademarks  
The brother logo is a registered trademark of Brother Industries, Ltd.  
Windows is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation.  
All other brand and product names mentioned in this User’s Guide are  
registered trademarks of their respective companies.  
Compilation and Publication Notice  
Under the supervision of Brother Industries Ltd., this manual has been  
compiled and published, covering the latest product’s descriptions and  
specifications.  
The contents of this manual and the specifications of this product are  
subject to change without notice.  
Brother reserves the right to make changes without notice in the  
specifications and materials contained herein and shall not be responsible  
for any damages (including consequential) caused by reliance on the  
materials presented, including but not limited to typographical and other  
errors relating to the publication.  
©1998 Brother Industries Ltd.  
ii  
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Definitions of Warnings, Cautions, and Notes  
The following conventions are used in this User’s Guide:  
Warning  
Indicates warnings that must be observed to prevent possible  
personal injury.  
Caution  
!
Indicates cautions that must be observed to use the printer properly or  
prevent damage to the printer.  
Note  
Indicates notes and useful tips to remember when using the printer.  
To Use the Printer Safely  
Warning  
DO NOT put your hands into the printer while it is printing to avoid  
causing injury.  
Fig. 0-1 Inside the Printer  
Warning  
Keep the ink cartridges away from children. If ink is swallowed,  
drink plenty of water. The ink contains no harmful substances, but if  
you are concerned you should consult a doctor.  
iii  
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Warning  
Before cleaning the printer platen, be sure to turn off the (On/Off)  
button and make sure that all the LEDs are off. Remove the Printer  
Interface Card Cable and AC Adapter if connected (MP-21CDX or  
optional PA-21MP users only) from the printer.  
Warning  
DO NOT put your hands into the printer or move the carriage by  
hand. The printer may move the carriage by itself and cause injury.  
Warning  
DO NOT push the shutters in the ink cartridge slot with your fingers.  
There are sharp pins inside the Ink Cartridge Slot. If you touch them,  
it might cause injury.  
Printer Do's and Don't for Optimum Print Quality  
Caution  
!
DO NOT touch the nozzles and the print head. DO NOT move the print  
head by hand or remove the print head from the printer.  
Caution  
!
During thunderstorms, push the (On/Off) button to turn off the printer  
and make sure that all the LEDs are off. Remove the Printer Interface  
Card Cable and AC Adapter if connected (MP-21CDX or optional PA-  
21MP users only ).  
Caution  
!
DO NOT turn off or suspend your PC while the printer LEDs are on  
or blinking.  
iv  
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Caution  
!
DO NOT touch the flat cable and Ink Tube.  
Fig. 0-2 The Flat Cable and Ink Tube  
Caution  
Keep the printer on a flat surface.  
!
Caution  
!
DO NOT move or shake the printer while it is printing.  
Caution  
Do not disassemble the printer.  
!
Caution  
!
DO NOT remove the Printer Interface Card, PC card cable or AC Adapter  
if connected (MP-21CDX or optional PA-21MP users only) while the  
printer LEDs are on or blinking.  
Caution  
!
When you carry the printer in your car, put the printer in a protective bag  
or wrap the printer in a cloth.  
Caution  
!
When you carry the printer , put the printer in a plastic bag .  
v
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Caution  
!
If the printer get wet, wait until it dries out completely before attempting  
to print.  
Caution  
!
If you drop the printer, check that there are no broken parts. If you find  
some parts broken, consult your dealer or our authorized service  
representative.  
Note  
We recommend you select the status monitor ON when you use the  
printer.  
vi  
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Printer Do's and Don't When Traveling  
Caution  
!
DO NOT leave the printer inside your car.  
Caution  
DO NOT shake or damage the printer.  
!
Caution  
!
When you carry the printer keep it upright.  
Caution  
!
When you travel by air, do not put the printer in your suitcase. Carry the  
printer onto the aircraft as hand baggage.  
Caution  
!
When you carry the printer, keep the ink cartridges installed.  
Note  
If you take the printer and AC adapter abroad, make sure that the power  
plug and the voltage requirements of the printer are correctly matched.  
Note  
It is recommended that you carry spare Brother Ink Cartridges when you  
travel with your printer.  
vii  
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USER’S GUIDE  
IMPORTANT INFORMATION: REGULATIONS  
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Declaration of Conformity  
(For U.S.A. only)  
Responsible Party:  
Brother International Corporation  
100 Somerset Corporate Boulvard  
Bridgewater, NJ 08807-0911, USA  
TEL : (908) 704-1700  
declares, that the products  
Product Name: Brother Mobile Inkjet Printer MP-21C/CDX,  
Printer Interface Card CI-100  
AC Adapter AD-100MP, AD-200MP (for MP-  
21CDX or optional PA-21MP user)  
complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the  
following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful  
interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received,  
including interference that may cause undesired operation.  
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a  
Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits  
are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful  
interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses,  
and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in  
accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio  
communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not  
occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful  
interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by  
turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct  
the interference by one or more of the following measures:  
– Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.  
– Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.  
– Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to  
which the receiver is connected.  
– Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.  
Important  
A shielded interface cable should be used in order to ensure compliance  
with the limits for a Class B digital device.  
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Brother Industries,  
Ltd. could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.  
x
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REGULATIONS  
Industry Canada Compliance Statement (For Canada only)  
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.  
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003  
du Canada.  
Radio Interference (220-240 V model only)  
This printer complies with EN55022(CISPR Publication 22)/Class B.  
Before this product is used, ensure that you use a double-shielded  
interface cable with twisted-pair conductors and that is marked  
“IEEE1284 compliant”. The cable must not exceed 1.8 metres in length.  
IMPORTANT - For Your Safety  
When you use an AC Adapter with this printer, be sure to use only the  
Brother option part number AD-100MP(100V), or AD-200MP(200V) .  
Geräuschemission / Acoustic Noise Emission (For Germany Only)  
Lpa < 70 dB(A) DIN 45635-19-01-KL2  
xi  
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USER’S GUIDE  
IMPORTANT - Wiring Information (For U.K. only)  
If the power cord supplied with the AC Adapter (for MP-21CDX or option) is not  
suitable for your electrical outlet, remove the plug from the mains cord and fit an  
appropriate three pin plug. If the replacement plug is intended to take a fuse then fit  
the same fuse as the original.  
If a moulded plug is severed from the power cord then it should be destroyed  
because a plug with cut wires is dangerous if plugged into a live socket outlet. Do  
not leave it where a child might find it.  
In the event of replacing the plug fuse, fit a fuse approved by ASTA to BS1362 with  
the same rating as the original fuse.  
Always replace the fuse cover. Never use a plug with the cover omitted.  
WARNING - DO NOT CONNECT EITHER WIRE TO THE EARTH TERMINAL  
WHICH IS MARKED WITH THE LETTER ‘E’, BY THE EARTH SYMBOL  
OR COLOURED GREEN OR YELLOW.  
The wires in the mains cord are coloured in accordance with the following code:  
Blue:  
Brown:  
Neutral  
Live  
The colours of the wiring in the power lead of this AC Adapter may not correspond  
with the markings which identify the terminals in your plug. If you need to fit a  
different plug, proceed as follows.  
Remove a length of the cord outer sheath, taking care not to damage the coloured  
insulation of the wires inside.  
Cut each of the wires to the appropriate length.  
Remove a short section of the coloured insulation to expose the wires.  
The wire which is coloured blue must be connected to the terminal which is marked  
with the letter “N” or coloured black or blue.  
The wire which is coloured brown must be connected to the terminal which is  
marked with the letter “L” or coloured red or brown.  
The outer sheath of the cord must be secured inside the plug. The coloured wires  
should not hang out of the plug.  
xii  
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REGULATIONS  
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY (EUROPE)  
We,  
Brother International Europe Ltd.,  
Brother House 1 Tame Street, Guide Bridge,  
Audenshaw, Manchester M34 5JE, UK.  
declare that this product is in conformity with the following normative  
documents:  
EMC:  
EN 55022 Class B, EN 50082-1  
following the provisions of the Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive  
89/336/EEC (as amended by 91/263/EEC and 92/31/EEC) and that the  
AC Adapter, as supplied with this system, conforms with EN 60950.  
This system also follows the provisions of the Low Voltage Directive  
73/23/EEC.  
Issued by:  
Brother International Europe Ltd.  
European Technical Services Division  
xiii  
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CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION  
CHAPTER 1  
INTRODUCTION  
ABOUT THE GUIDEBOOKS  
You have two guidebooks for this printer. Read each guidebook in the  
following order:  
1. Read the Quick Setup Guide to set up your printer and connect it to  
your computer. It also contains information about setting up your  
computer for your printer by installing the printer driver.  
2. Read the Users Guide to obtain information about the following.  
CHAPTER 1 - Introduction  
1-1  
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USER’S GUIDE  
ABOUT YOUR PRINTER  
Printer Overview  
Top Cover  
PC Card Cable  
Printer Interface Card  
(CI-100)  
Fig. 1-1 Front View  
AC Adapter Connector  
Straight Paper Path Slot  
Paper Feeding Slot Guide  
Auto Cut Sheet Feeder -1  
Parallel Interface  
Cable -2  
Printer Stand  
AC Adapter -2  
Fig. 1-2 Rear View  
Ink Cartridges  
(LC03BC, LC03MY)  
Paper Release Lever  
Print Head  
Fig. 1-3 Inside the Printer  
1-(MP-21CDX or optional SF-21MP users only)  
2-(MP-21CDX or optional PA-21MP users only)  
1-2  
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CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION  
Features  
This printer has the following features:  
Small and Light InkJet Printer  
This printer weighs about 1kg (2.2 lbs.) and the footprint is very  
small. You can take the printer with you anywhere, any time you  
want.  
Lowest Power Consumption in the World  
Power consumption is so small (2.5-3.0 W: printing, 0.5 W: waiting )  
that it is possible to take power from a Notebook PC through the  
Printer Interface Card. Even if you use the AC adapter (MP-21CDX  
or optional PA-21MP users only), it’s also easy to carry around.  
Quietest InkJet Printer in the World  
The printer is so quiet (less than 40dBA), that the printer never  
disturbs you while you are working.  
No need for an AC Adapter or Printer Cable  
The printer can take power from the Notebook PC through the Printer  
Interface Card. Therefore you do not have to carry an AC adapter and  
a printer cable with you all the time.  
Brilliant 4 Color Output at 720 dpi  
You can get wonderful output at 720 by 720 dpi resolution. When you  
print on Brother special coated paper and glossy paper, you can get  
excellent high resolution output.  
Two color print mode  
When you select this mode through the printer driver, you can print  
the color output in two colors. You can select Black/Cyan,  
Black/Magenta or Black/Yellow.  
Low Running Cost  
You don’t have to throw the print head of your printer away every  
time you have emptied an ink cartridge. When you run out of ink, you  
have to change only ink cartridges.  
Straight Paper Path  
The printer can print on various types of paper - plain paper, coated  
paper, glossy paper, transparencies, envelopes and organizers - with  
fewer paper jams.  
Auto Cut Sheet Feeder (MP-21CDX or SF-21MP users only)  
The Feeder is detachable.When using the Feeder, you can easily load  
up to 30 sheets of paper. When carried with the printer it fits on the  
bottom of the printer and the total size including the printer is about  
A4 size.  
AC Adapter and Parallel Interface Connector (MP-21CDX or PA-  
21MP users only)  
When you want to print faster, use the AC Adapter.  
When you cannot print using the PC Card slot, use the Parallel  
Interface Cable and AC adapter instead.  
1-3  
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USER’S GUIDE  
Operating and Storage Environment  
Please take note of the following before using the printer.  
Power Supply  
Use the printer within the specified power range.  
AC power: ±10% of the rated power voltage  
Frequency: 50/60 Hz (100-120V or 220-240 V)  
The power cord, including extensions, should not exceed 5 meters (16.5 feet).  
Do not share the same power circuit with other high-power appliances,  
particularly an air conditioner, copier, shredder, etc. If it is unavoidable that  
you must use the printer with these appliances, we recommend you use a  
voltage transformer or a high-frequency noise filter.  
Use a voltage regulator if the power source is not stable.  
Environment  
Use the printer only within the following ranges of temperature and humidity.  
Ambient temperature: 10°C to 35°C (50°F to 95°F)  
Ambient humidity:  
20% to 80% (without condensation)  
Use the printer in a ventilated room.  
Place the printer on a flat, horizontal surface.  
Keep the printer clean. Do not place the printer in a dusty place.  
Do not place the printer where it is exposed to direct sunlight. Use a blind or  
a heavy curtain to protect the printer from direct sunlight when the printer is  
unavoidably set up near a window.  
Do not place the printer near devices that contain magnets or generate  
magnetic fields.  
Do not subject the printer to strong physical shocks or vibrations.  
Do not expose the printer to open flames or salty or corrosive gasses.  
Do not place objects on top of the printer.  
Do not place the printer near an air conditioner.  
Keep the printer horizontal when carrying it.  
If you have kept the printer in temperatures over 35°C or under 10°C for  
some time, place the printer in an environment where the temperature is  
between 10°C and 35°C for 30 minutes before using the printer.  
1-4  
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CHAPTER 2 PAPER HANDLING  
CHAPTER 2  
PAPER HANDLING  
PAPER SPECIFICATIONS  
The output quality of Inkjet printers depends on the paper type being  
used. Before you print, be sure to check the information below.  
Note  
It is recommended that you test paper, especially special sizes and types  
of paper, on this printer before purchasing large quantities.  
The printer can handle paper that has the following specifications. With  
this printer, you can print on plain paper, coated paper, transparencies,  
glossy paper and envelopes.  
Paper Type  
Paper Size  
Feeder Capacity  
(MP-21CDX or SF-21MP  
users only)  
30 sheets of 75 g/m2  
Cut sheet  
A4, Letter, Executive,  
Legal (*1), B5  
A4, Letter, Executive,  
Legal (*1), B5  
A4, Letter (*3)  
A4, Letter  
Coated Paper for 360 dpi printing  
Coated Paper for 720 dpi printing  
Transparencies  
Glossy paper  
Envelopes  
20  
×
×
×
DL, COM-10, Monarch,  
B5, C5 (*2)  
Organizer  
K, L  
×
Paper Weight Range  
From Paper Support:  
60 to 105 g/m2 (16 to 28 lb.)  
From Straight Paper Path:  
Auto Cut Sheet Feeder:  
60 to 157 g/m2 (16 to 42 lb.)  
60 to 105 g/m2 (16 to 28 lb.)  
Paper Size  
User Defined:  
100-216 x 100-356 mm  
(3.94-8.5 x 3.94-14 inches)  
*1 - Legal size paper can only be used in the Paper Feeding Slot and  
the Straight Paper Path Slot, it cannot be used in the Auto Cut  
Sheet Feeder.  
*2 - Envelopes can only be used in the Straight Paper Path Slot.  
*3 - After finishing printing a page, remove each sheet of paper.  
2-1  
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USER’S GUIDE  
Note  
To get the best output quality and to avoid any damage, use Brother special  
coated paper and glossy paper.  
Quality Coated Paper for 360 dpi Color InkJet printing  
BP36CL (Letter), BP36CA (A4)  
High Quality Coated Paper for 720 dpi Color InkJet printing  
BP72CL (Letter), BP72CA (A4)  
Color InkJet Glossy Paper (Super Fine mode)  
BPGLL (Letter), BPGLA (A4)  
Recommended paper  
Cut sheet:  
Xerox 4200 (in USA)  
Xerox Premier 80g/m2 (in Europe) or equivalent  
3M CG3460, 3M CG3410-BPTRL (in USA)  
3M CG3460, 3M CG3410 (in Europe)  
Transparencies:  
Caution  
!
When you print on transparencies, it is possible to stain your hands or  
clothes if you touch the surface of the transparency immediately after it is  
printed out.  
We recommend you load transparencies from the paper feeding slot.  
Remarks  
Use a recommended type of paper, especially plain paper, for optimum  
printing. For more information on paper specifications, consult your  
nearest authorized sales representative or the place you purchased the  
printer.  
You cannot use transparencies designed for laser-based copier use.  
You can use recycled paper in this printer.  
Caution  
!
Before using any paper, make sure that it is not curled. If it is, you should  
straighten the paper as much as possible by rolling it in the opposite  
direction of the curl. Feeding curled or damaged paper may cause paper  
jams and mis-feeds.  
2-2  
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CHAPTER 2 PAPER HANDLING  
Printable area  
The Printable area depends on the settings in your application. The figure  
below shows the physically printable area and non guaranteed print area  
of various paper types with this printer.  
Cut Sheet  
3.4mm(0.13"):A4, A5  
6.4mm(0.25"):Let, Leg  
3.4mm(0.13"):A4, A5  
6.4mm(0.25"):Let, Leg  
User Defined  
6.4mm(0.25")  
6.4mm(0.25")  
3mm(0.12")  
3mm(0.12")  
20mm(0.78")  
20mm(0.78")  
11.5mm(0.45")  
11.5mm(0.45")  
Envelopes  
3.4mm(0.13")  
3.4mm(0.13")  
20mm(0.78")  
20mm(0.78")  
Unprintable Area  
Non Guaranteed Print Area  
Fig. 2-1 Printable Area  
The following types of paper and envelopes are not recommended for  
use.  
Damaged, curled, wrinkled, or irregularly shaped paper and envelopes  
Extremely shiny or highly textured paper and envelopes  
Envelopes with clasps  
Envelopes of baggy construction  
Envelopes not sharply creased  
Embossed envelopes  
Paper and envelopes already printed with a laser printer  
Envelopes pre-printed on the inside  
Paper and envelopes that cannot be arranged uniformly when placed  
in a pile  
2-3  
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USER’S GUIDE  
ABOUT BROTHER SPECIAL PAPER  
Caution  
!
When you print on coated paper, transparencies and glossy paper, be sure  
to select the correct media in the ‘Quality/Color’ tab in the printer driver.  
About Brother Special Coated Paper  
We recommend you use Brother special coated paper, depending on the  
resolution you are using, for you to get the brilliant color output you  
expect.  
For Fine quality:  
Quality Coated Paper for 360 dpi Color InkJet printing  
NO. BP36CL  
BP36CA  
(letter)  
(A4)  
For Super Fine quality:  
High Quality Coated Paper for 720 dpi Color InkJet printing  
NO. BP72CL  
BP72CA  
(letter)  
(A4)  
These papers are manufactured specifically for this printer to provide  
optimum print quality. When using these papers please follow the notes  
below:  
There is a surfaced side and non-surfaced side to the paper, and it is  
specially coated only on the surfaced side. Therefore, when loading  
paper in the printer, make sure that the whiter side (the coated  
surface) is facing up.  
DO NOT touch the coated side of the paper, as it will absorb water  
and perspiration easily and might cause decreased output quality.  
Be sure to use the most suitable coated paper, according to the  
resolution you are using. If you do not use the most suitable paper  
you may not get good print output quality.  
When storing paper, keep it in the original bag and seal the bag.  
Make sure you keep the paper flat. Keep paper away from moisture  
and out of the direct rays of the sun.  
Printing resolution (Set from the printer driver):  
Select Normal mode for 360 dpi printing  
Select Super Fine mode for 720 dpi printing  
2-4  
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CHAPTER 2 PAPER HANDLING  
About Brother Special Glossy Paper  
When you print on glossy paper, you can get a very clear and crisp  
output.  
We recommend you use Brother special glossy paper for you to get the  
best output, as the paper is especially designed to be used for Brother  
Inkjet printing.  
For 720 dpi:  
Color InkJet Glossy Paper  
NO BPGLL  
BPGLA  
(letter)  
(A4)  
DO NOT touch the surface of the glossy paper, as water or  
perspiration will stain the surface. DO NOT touch the printing side of  
the paper.  
You should use the glossy paper in normal office environmental  
conditions:  
Temperature: 15 25°C (59 77°F)  
Humidity: 40 60%  
After finishing printing a page, remove each sheet of paper  
immediately and place it face up on a flat surface until it is completely  
dry. DO NOT place anything on the printed side of the paper.  
When storing a stack of printed glossy paper, place a sheet of paper  
between each sheet of printed glossy paper.  
Printing resolution (Set from the printer driver): Super Fine mode  
2-5  
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USER’S GUIDE  
LOADING PAPER  
How to Load Paper in the Paper Feeding Slot  
1. Open the Paper Feeding Slot Guide.  
Fig. 2-2 Open the Paper Feeding Slot Guide  
2. Make sure that the (On/Off) LED is on. Take a sheet of paper and  
insert it into the Paper Feeding Slot. Be sure to insert the paper to the  
right hand side of the Paper Feeding Slot Guide looking at the printer  
from the front.  
Fig. 2-3 Loading Paper  
Note  
About 2 seconds after you insert the paper, the printer feeds the paper  
and then reverse feeds the paper a little, the printer is now ready to  
print.  
Hold the paper until the printer picks up the paper correctly.  
If the paper does not load straight, open the top cover and pull the  
release lever. Pull the paper out, close the top cover and try again .  
When you print on transparencies, remove each sheet immediately  
after it is printed out.  
2-6  
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CHAPTER 2 PAPER HANDLING  
How to Load Paper in the Straight Paper Path Slot  
1. Make sure that the (On/Off) LED is on. Take a sheet of paper and  
insert it into the Straight Paper Path Slot. Be sure to insert the paper  
to the right hand side of the Paper Feeding Slot Guide looking at the  
printer from the front. Be sure to adjust the paper to the mark below.  
Fig. 2-4 Loading Paper in the Straight Paper Path Slot  
Caution  
!
Make sure you insert paper into the Paper Feeding Slot straight so that  
the paper does not skew.  
Be sure to adjust the paper setting in the printer driver.  
Load thick paper and envelopes from the straight paper path slot.  
When the printer is in Auto-Power off mode, the paper will be ejected  
automatically. Turn the printer on and load the paper again.  
2-7  
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USER’S GUIDE  
How to Load Envelopes in the Straight Paper Path Slot  
1. Take an envelope and insert it into the Straight Paper Path slot. Be  
sure to adjust the paper to the mark below.  
Fig. 2-5 Loading Envelopes  
Note  
When you load envelopes, insert the envelope carefully so that it won't  
skew.  
Do not print on the rear of envelopes. If you do, it might damage the  
printer.  
When loading envelopes, load them with the print side face up.  
When you print on envelopes, be sure to load them with the short edge  
downwards with the flap to the left hand side when you view the printer  
from the front.  
When an envelope is curled, straighten it before printing.  
Fig. 2-6 Straighten the Envelopes  
Fold the flap securely with a pen or with your finger before loading  
envelopes.  
Fig. 2-7 Fold the flap  
Make sure that the amount of curl of the envelope is less than 5 mm  
when you load envelopes. Curl at the edge of envelopes must be less than  
1 mm. If you print on these envelopes, it might damage the printer.  
1mm  
5mm(0.195")  
Fig. 2-8 curl height  
Curl at the edge  
2-8  
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CHAPTER 2 PAPER HANDLING  
How to Load Paper in the Auto Cut Sheet Feeder (MP-21CDX or  
optional SF-21MP users only)  
1. Make sure that the Latches on both sides of the Auto Cut Sheet  
Feeder are closed.  
2. Fit the Auto Cut Sheet Feeder onto the printer. Push the latches  
securely until you hear them click into the lock position.  
Fig. 2-9 Fit the Auto Cut Sheet Feeder onto the Printer  
3. Tilt the Auto Cut Sheet Feeder fully (1). Press the center of the Feeder  
cover a little and open the Feeder Cover(2).  
Fig. 2-10 Tilt the Feeder and Open the Cover  
2-9  
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USER’S GUIDE  
4. Pull the wire up.  
Fig. 2-11 Pull the Wire up  
5. Fan the stack of paper before loading.  
6. Load the paper stack with the printing (coated) side upwards. Align the  
right side of the paper against the right hand side of the Auto Cut Sheet  
Feeder. Make sure that the paper is stacked below the  
mark. You can  
load up to approx. 30 sheets of plain paper (75g / m2).  
7. Adjust the Paper Guide to the left hand side of the paper and close the  
Feeder Cover.  
Fig. 2-12 Loading Paper  
Note  
When you install the Feeder onto the printer, make sure that the Feeder is  
straight.  
2-10  
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CHAPTER 2 PAPER HANDLING  
Caution  
!
You can load glossy paper only from the Paper Feeding Slot or from the  
Straight Paper Path Slot.  
When you load glossy paper, load only one sheet at a time.  
Make sure the paper loaded in the Feeder is all the same type.  
When adding paper, first remove any remaining paper from the Feeder  
and stack it with the new paper, then insert the new paper stack into the  
Feeder.  
Be sure to adjust the paper setting in the printer driver.  
Do not tilt the printer forwards.  
When you carry the printer, move the printer and Feeder carefully as  
shown below.  
Do not hold only the Feeder when carrying the printer.  
Do not turn the printer upside down.  
Be sure to set the Printer Stand in the original position before removing  
the Feeder.  
Fig. 2-13 The Printer and the Auto Cut Sheet Feeder  
Note  
If the paper will not load from the Feeder, use the Paper Feeding Slot and try  
again. Ensure that the latches are connected securely and tilt the Feeder fully.  
2-11  
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USER’S GUIDE  
How to Remove the Auto Cut Sheet Feeder from the Printer  
1. Open the Feeder Cover and remove the paper.  
2. Move the Paper Guide to the left.  
3. Fold the wire back in the Auto Cut Sheet Feeder, and close the Feeder  
Cover and then tilt the Feeder forwards.  
Caution  
!
Ensure you move the Paper Guide to the left, otherwise it will cause  
damage to the Auto Cut Sheet Feeder.  
4. Open the Latches( ) on the rear of the Cut Sheet Feeder by them  
forwards and push the Latches( ) on both sides inwards into the sheet  
feeder. Remove the Auto Cut Sheet Feeder from the Printer.  
Fig. 2-14 Latches  
5. Set the Latches on both sides of the Cut Sheet Feeder to the normal  
position.  
Fig. 2-15 Latches  
Caution  
!
Treat the Latches carefully so that they do not break.  
2-12  
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CHAPTER 3 CONTROL PANEL  
CHAPTER 3  
CONTROL PANEL  
LED AND BUTTONS  
This section refers to the following LEDs and buttons on the printer  
control panel.  
Fig. 3-1 Control Panel  
LEDs  
The (On/Off) LED  
The (On/Off) LED indicates the current power status of the printer.  
LED  
On  
Printer status  
The printer is turned on and ready to print.  
Off  
The printer is turned off.  
Error status with the  
(Alarm) LED on.  
Blinking The printer is receiving data.  
●  
3-1  
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USER’S GUIDE  
Ink LEDs (  
(BC) LED and  
(MY) LED)  
Each Cartridge LED indicates when the ink is low or empty.  
LED  
Blinking  
Printer status  
The color ink cartridge is running out of ink. You  
should prepare a new ink cartridge for that color.  
The color ink cartridge is empty. You should  
replace it with a new one immediately for optimum  
●  
On  
This may also indicate that one or more ink  
cartridges may not be installed correctly or there is  
no cartridge installed if the (Alarm) LED is on.  
(Alarm) LED  
The  
LED  
(Alarm) LED indicates a printer error status.  
Printer status  
On  
Paper empty, paper jam or mis-feeding. If a paper  
cartridge(s) is not installed correctly when an ink  
LED(s) is also on.  
Blinking  
●  
The top cover of the printer is open and should be  
closed so that the printer can print.  
When the  
(Alarm) LED is on or blinking and the printer has detected  
Chapter 5 and clear the problem to make the printer ready to print.  
When (On/Off) LED+ (Alarm) LED and Ink LEDs (  
LED+ (MY) LED) Blink in Turn  
(BC)  
The printer is making itself ready to print.  
The printer is cleaning the print head.  
When All the LEDs Blink at the Same Time  
3-2  
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CHAPTER 3 CONTROL PANEL  
Buttons  
The (On/Off) Button (Retry)  
When you press this button and the (On/Off) LED comes on, the  
printer becomes ready to operate.  
When you press this button and the  
printer is turned off.  
(On/Off) LED  
goes off, the  
When the  
(Alarm) LED is on and the (On/Off) LED is off,  
pressing this button will resume printing and the mis-feed will be cleared.  
Make sure that the (On/Off) LED comes on after you press this  
button.  
Clean Button  
When you want to clean the print head, press this button.  
Warning  
Even if you turn the (On/Off) button off, power is not completely  
shut off. In case of emergencies, you must remove the Printer  
Interface Card from the computer and remove the AC Adapter from  
the mains if connected (MP-21CDX or PA-21MP users only) in order  
to shut off power completely.  
3-3  
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CHAPTER 4 MAINTENANCE  
CHAPTER 4  
MAINTENANCE  
CLEANING THE PRINT HEAD  
Clean the print head if you get white lines in text or graphics on your  
printed document.  
You can clean the 4 color (black, cyan, yellow, magenta) print heads by  
control panel button operation.  
Note  
When the printer is performing print head cleaning, all the LEDs blink  
alternately.  
How to clean the print head  
Press the Clean button and the printer cleans the print head automatically.  
Wait until all the LEDs stop blinking.  
Caution  
!
Do not remove cables when the printer is cleaning its print head.  
Note  
You can also clean the print head from the printer driver. Select  
‘Maintenance’ from the ‘MP-21C series’ group in Windows.  
Automatic Periodical Cleaning  
This printer carries out Automatic Periodical Cleaning to ensure that the  
printer maintains optimum print quality at all times. This setting will use  
ink during the cleaning sequences.  
If you want to only clean the print head by manually selecting cleaning,  
you can turn this setting off through the printer driver. This setting will  
save ink but you will need to clean the print head manually when  
necessary.  
To turn the setting to off, select 'Maintenance' from the MP-21C series  
group in Windows.  
Note  
When you carry out cleaning 3 times within one hour by using the printer  
clean button, the third clean will become a 'Power Clean'.  
4-1  
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USER’S GUIDE  
REPLACING THE INK CARTRIDGES  
When the Ink LED(s) (  
(BC) LED and/or  
(MY) LED) blink or  
come on, replace the indicated color ink cartridge with a new one.  
We strongly recommend you only use Brother original ink cartridges for  
the printer as these will provide the best print quality. Using other ink  
may void the warranty for this printer.  
Black & Cyan  
Magenta & Yellow  
LC03BC  
LC03MY  
Caution  
!
Make sure that the (On/Off) LED is on when you replace the ink  
cartridges.  
When the ink has run out, the Ink LED(s) (  
(BC) LED and/or  
(MY) LED) turn on. When you find this, replace the ink cartridges  
immediately.  
DO NOT replace the Ink Cartridges while the printer is working.  
Use the ink cartridge up within 6 months of installation.  
How to replace the ink cartridges  
1. Make sure that the (On/Off) LED is on. Open the top cover.  
2. Remove the ink cartridge you need to replace.  
Fig. 4-1 Removing the Cartridge  
Warning  
DO NOT push the shutters in the ink cartridge slot. There are sharp  
pins inside the Ink Cartridge Slot. If you touch them, it might cause  
injury.  
Caution  
!
DO NOT remove ink cartridges if you do not need to replace them. Once  
you remove a cartridge, you cannot re-use it.  
4-2  
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CHAPTER 4 MAINTENANCE  
Caution  
!
Throw away the removed ink cartridges immediately so that you do not  
re-install the old one by mistake.  
3. Open the new ink cartridge box and take the cartridge out of the bag.  
Note  
You can recognize whether the cartridge is used or new by the white gum  
on the rear of the cartridge. If it is stained with ink, it is a used ink  
cartridge.  
4. Insert the new cartridge, making sure to insert it into the correct  
position. Push it in until you hear a click as it locks into position.  
Make sure that the Ink LED(s) (  
LED) turn off.  
(BC) LED and/or  
(MY)  
Fig. 4-2 Install a New Ink Cartridge  
5. Close the top cover. The printer will automatically start cleaning the  
print head. Wait until all the LEDs stop blinking.  
Warning  
If ink stains your body or clothing, wash with soap or detergent  
immediately.  
If ink gets in your eyes, irrigate them with water immediately and  
consult a doctor if you are concerned.  
Caution  
!
Once you have installed the cartridge, DO NOT take it out until the Ink  
LED(  
(BC) LED and/or  
(MY) LED) blinks or comes on or until  
the ink runs out. Once you have removed an ink cartridge, DO NOT re-  
install it.  
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USER’S GUIDE  
Caution  
!
Once you install an ink cartridge, use it up within 6 months. Use ink  
cartridges within 2 years of the production date.  
Caution  
!
DO NOT remove the Ink Cartridges when the printer is off. If you have  
replaced ink cartridges while the printer is turned off, reset the ink  
counter from the maintenance tool in the printer driver. If you do not  
reset the counter the inside of the printer or the printouts may get stained  
with ink.  
Caution  
!
Be sure to replace ink cartridges when the printer indicates ink empty or  
nearly empty.  
Caution  
DO NOT shake the ink cartridges.  
!
Caution  
!
DO NOT leave the printer with empty ink cartridges or with the ink  
cartridges removed.  
Caution  
!
DO NOT re-use ink cartridges you have removed from the printer.  
Note  
If either of the Ink LEDs (  
(BC) LED and/or  
(MY) LED) and the  
(Alarm) LED is on after you have installed the ink cartridges, check  
that the ink cartridges are installed correctly.  
Note  
Every 5 days, the printer will clean its print head automatically when you  
send the first print job.  
4-4  
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CHAPTER 4 MAINTENANCE  
CLEANING THE PRINTER  
Cleaning the Printer  
1. Before cleaning the printer or printer platen, be sure to turn off the  
printer and remove the PC Card Cable from your computer and  
remove the AC Adapter (MP-21CDX or PA-21MP users only) if  
connected and make sure that all the LEDs are off.  
2. Open the top cover.  
3. Wipe the printer platen with a cotton swab.  
Fig. 4-3 Cleaning the Printer Platen  
Caution  
!
DO NOT touch the Flat Cable, Rollers, Print Head and the Encoder Strip  
when cleaning.  
Fig.4-4 The Flat Cable and the Encoder Strip  
4-5  
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USER’S GUIDE  
REPACKING THE PRINTER  
Caution  
!
Whenever you transport the printer, use the packing materials which are  
provided with your printer. Also, follow the steps below to repack the  
printer, or the printer may be damaged. This will void the printer’s  
warranty.  
1. Turn off the (On/Off) button and turn the printer off. Make sure  
that the (On/Off) LED is off.  
2. Remove the Printer Interface Card from your computer. Remove the  
PC Card Cable from the printer and Printer Interface Card. Remove  
the AC Adapter, Parallel Interface Cable and Auto Cut Sheet Feeder  
if connected.(MP-21CDX, PA-21MP and SF-21MP users only)  
Fig. 4-5 Remove the Cable  
3. Wrap the printer in the plastic bag and place it in the original  
carton box with the original packing material.  
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CHAPTER 4 MAINTENANCE  
4. Place any documents (manual and any documentation describing the  
reason for returning the printer) in the carton box as shown below.  
Fig. 4-6 Repacking the printer  
5. Close the carton box and tape it securely.  
Caution  
!
Make sure that the printer has the ink cartridges fitted to it when  
shipping.  
Do not turn the printer upside down while shipping.  
4-7  
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CHAPTER 5 TROUBLESHOOTING  
CHAPTER 5  
TROUBLE SHOOTING  
ALARM INDICATIONS AT A GLANCE  
Operator Calls  
If a recoverable error occurs, the printer indicates an ‘operator call’ by  
blinking or turning on the  
(Alarm) LED.  
Find the error and take the appropriate action to correct it. The printer  
automatically recovers from most errors, but you may need to reset the  
printer with the button as described below.  
LEDs  
(Alarm) ●  
Error  
Action  
Paper jam  
Clear the paper jam by referring to the next section  
(On/Off) ❍  
Paper empty  
Mis-feed  
Load paper in the printer by referring to Chapter 2.  
Reinstall the paper. When using the Auto Cut Sheet  
Feeder (MP-21CDX or SF-21MP users only), press  
the  
(On/Off) button after reinstalling the paper  
stack into the Feeder.  
Cover Open  
The Top Cover of the printer is open. Close it to  
resume printing.  
(Alarm) ●  
(On/Off) ●  
No Cartridge One or more ink cartridges are not installed  
correctly or are missing.  
(Alarm) ●  
Ink ●  
(
(BC) and/or  
(MY))  
Ink Empty  
Replace the ink cartridge with a new one.  
Ink ●  
(BC) and/or  
(MY))  
Ink ●  
(BC) and/or  
(MY))  
All ●  
(
Ink Nearly  
Empty  
Indicates that the indicated ink cartridge will run out  
soon. You should purchase a new ink cartridge  
ready for when Ink Empty is indicated.  
(
Service call  
See the Service Calls section on the next page.  
Note  
If the printer does not operate as you expect it to, it is recommended that  
you unplug the printer, then plug it in and try printing again. If you still  
have problems, consult your dealer or our authorized service  
representative before returning this product.  
5-1  
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USER’S GUIDE  
Service Calls  
If an unrecoverable error occurs, the printer indicates the need for a  
service call by lighting all the LEDs and then the following combination  
of lamps alternately:  
Service Call  
Service 1  
Service 2  
Service 3  
Service 4  
(On/Off)  
(Alarm)  
(BC)  
(MY)  
Service Call  
(On/Off)  
(Alarm)  
Service 5  
Service 6  
Service 7  
Service 8  
(BC)  
(MY)  
Service Call  
(On/Off)  
(Alarm)  
Service 9  
Service 10  
Service 11  
Service 12  
(BC)  
(MY)  
Service Call  
(On/Off)  
(Alarm)  
Service 13  
Service 14  
ON  
(BC)  
(MY)  
OFF  
If you see any of these service call indications, turn the (On/Off)  
button off and on and then try to print again.  
If you cannot clear the error and see the same service call indication after  
turning on the printer, make sure that the status monitor of the printer is  
on and consult your dealer or our authorized service representative.  
Report the error status and situation referring to the table above.  
5-2  
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CHAPTER 5 TROUBLESHOOTING  
PAPER JAMS  
How to clear paper jams  
1. Open the Top Cover and pull the Release Lever.  
Fig. 5-1 Pulling the Release Lever  
2. Pull out the jammed paper carefully with the top cover open.  
Fig. 5-2 Pulling the Jammed Paper Out  
3. Push back the Release Lever and close the Top Cover.  
Note  
When the printer platen gets stained, clean the platen referring to the  
Ensure you leave the top cover open when you are removing jammed  
paper.  
5-3  
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USER’S GUIDE  
How to clear a paper jam when using the Auto Cut Sheet Feeder (MP-21CDX  
or SF-21MP users only)  
If a paper jam occurs when you are using the Feeder, try to remove the  
jammed paper as shown in ‘How to clear paper jams’ section of this  
chapter.  
If you cannot remove it, even after following the instructions, do the  
following.  
1. Open the top cover and pull the Release Lever.  
2. Tilt the Auto Cut Sheet Feeder forwards.  
3. Pull the jammed paper from the Feeder side.  
Fig. 5-3 Pulling the Jammed Paper Out  
4. Tilt the Feeder back.  
5. Push back the Release Lever and close the top cover.  
5-4  
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CHAPTER 5 TROUBLESHOOTING  
Q & A  
This section contains commonly asked questions and the answers  
concerning your printer. If you have encountered a problem, try to find  
the question relating to your problem and take the steps recommended to  
correct the problem.  
Setting Up the Printer Hardware  
Question  
Recommendation  
The printer does not work. All  
LEDs are off.  
The printer may not be turned on. Check to see if the  
AC adapter (MP-21CDX or PA-21MP users only) is  
plugged into a live power source or the Printer  
Interface Card is connected to the computer and the  
(On/Off) button is on.  
Check that both ends of the PC Card Cable are  
connected securely to the printer and your PC/ Printer  
interface Card.  
The printer does not print.  
Check the following:  
The printer is turned on.  
The (On/Off) LED is on.  
All of the protective parts have been removed.  
The top cover of the printer is closed.  
The ink cartridges are installed properly.  
The Ink LEDs (  
(BC) LED and/or  
(MY)  
LED) are not on. If one or more are on, replace  
the ink cartridge(s).  
The Printer Interface Card and the cable is  
securely connected between the printer and  
computer or the printer is connected to the AC  
Adapter and parallel Interface Cable.  
The (Alarm) LED is off. If the (Alarm)  
LED is blinking or on, refer to the Operator Call  
section of this manual.  
In Windows, the MP-21C/CDX printer is selected  
in the printer settings in your application.  
The host is configured correctly: check printer  
port, print manager etc. (clear stored job or ‘use  
print manager’ is selected off)  
Printer port you select is the correct one for using  
the Printer Interface Card or Parallel Interface  
Connector.  
Try cleaning the print head.  
5-5  
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USER’S GUIDE  
Setting Up the Printer for Windows  
Question  
Recommendation  
I cannot print from my  
application software.  
Make sure the supplied Windows printer driver is  
installed correctly and selected in your application  
software.  
I cannot print the entire page.  
Check to see if the size of paper in the feeder is the  
same as the one that you have selected in your  
application or the printer driver  
Computer indicates a device  
time-out.  
If the (Alarm) LED is blinking, clear it  
referring to the ‘Alarm Indications at a Glance’  
section in this chapter and try to print again.  
If the (Alarm) LED is off, wait a short while  
and then click on the Retry button on the PC  
screen dialog box.  
If the (On/Off) LED is blinking, press the  
cancel button on your PC and retry printing.  
If all the LEDs are blinking alternately, the printer  
is cleaning its print head. Wait until they stop  
blinking.  
Check to see if the (On/Off) LED is on.  
Paper is empty. Load paper and press the (On/Off)  
button if the (Alarm) LED is on with the  
(On/Off) LED blinking to recover from the error  
status..  
Computer indicates Paper  
Empty.  
Computer indicates Off Line.  
Press the (On/Off) button to make the printer  
ready. Check the (On/Off) LED is on.  
Computer indicates Power Off. Check if the printer is securely plugged into the AC  
outlet or the Printer Interface Card is connected to the  
computer and the (On/Off) LED is on.  
Computer indicates an error  
message other than above.  
Check the following;  
The printer is connected directly to the computer.  
The computer is set to work in bi-directional  
mode.  
The printer port is correct.  
Selection of the printer is correct.  
Recommended interface cable is being used.  
If the printer port is set as an ECP port, change it  
to be a bi-directional port. See your PC’s manual  
for how to change the printer port.  
5-6  
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CHAPTER 5 TROUBLESHOOTING  
Paper Handling  
Question  
Recommendation  
The printer does not load  
paper.  
When you feed paper from the Paper Feeding  
Slot, make sure to push the paper fully down into  
the slot with the paper straight.  
(For MP-21CDX and optional SF-21MP users only)  
Check to see if the (Alarm) LED is on. If so,  
the Auto Cut Sheet Feeder may be out of paper or  
not properly installed. If it is empty, load a new  
stack of paper into the feeder.  
Check to see if the paper loaded meets the  
specification of the paper described in Chapter 2.  
If there is paper in the Auto Cut Sheet Feeder,  
make sure that it is straight. If the paper is curled,  
you should straighten it before printing.  
Sometimes it is helpful to remove the paper, turn  
the stack over and replace it in the paper tray.  
Reduce the stack of paper in the Auto Cut Sheet  
Feeder, then try again.  
How can I load envelopes?  
You can load envelopes from the Straight Paper Path  
Slot. Your application software also must be set up  
correctly to print on the envelope size you are using.  
This is usually done in the page setup or document  
setup menu of your software. Refer to your  
applications manual for further information.  
See Chapter 2 for details.  
What paper can I use?  
You can use plain paper, coated paper, glossy paper,  
envelopes and transparencies. For information on  
See the “PAPER JAMS”section in this chapter.  
Check to see if:  
How can I clear paper jams?  
The printer loads more than  
one sheet at a time when using  
the Auto Cut Sheet Feeder  
(MP-21CDX or optional SF-  
21MP users only).  
The paper loaded is all the same type.  
Paper that meets the specifications is loaded.  
Papers were fanned before loading.  
The stack of paper is not too high.  
The side guide is not set too tight.  
The printer doesn’t eject paper. Turn the printer off and on.  
Paper loads skewed when  
using the Auto Cut Sheet  
Feeder (MP-21CDX or  
optional SF-21MP users only).  
Mis-picking up paper when  
using the Feeder.  
Check the following;  
The side guide is adjusted correctly.  
The amount of paper you have loaded is correct.  
Check to see if :  
The Feeder is installed correctly.  
The Feeder has been tilted backwards.  
For details, see Chapter 2.  
5-7  
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USER’S GUIDE  
Printing  
Question  
Recommendation  
The printer prints unexpectedly  
or it prints incorrect images.  
Cancel the print job from your computer. Then,  
turn the printer off and on.  
Make sure your application software is correctly  
set up to use this printer and check the printer  
driver settings or printer settings in your  
application software.  
If the printer port is set as an ECP port, change it  
to be a bi-directional port. See your PC’s manual  
for how to change the printer port.  
The computer hangs up when  
Check to see if the system resources are enough (PC  
the printer starts printing, or an memory, etc). When you have many applications  
application error occurs.  
open, the system resources of your PC will not be  
enough and your PC will hang up. Close applications  
you are not using and try again.  
My headers or footers appear  
when I view my document on  
screen but do not show up  
when I print them.  
Most Inkjet printers have a restricted area that cannot  
be printed on. Adjust the top and bottom margins in  
your document to allow for this. Check by using the  
preview screen in the application.  
Printing takes too long.  
When you print color graphic images, there is a  
large amount of data and the printer will take a  
relatively long time to complete printing.  
When all the LEDs are blinking alternately, the  
printer is making itself ready to print. Wait till the  
(On/Off) LED comes on. Printing speed  
depends on the memory size and performance of  
your PC.  
Super Fine mode takes a long time to complete  
printing, set the mode to Normal mode or Draft  
mode.  
The printer may be set in monochrome mode.  
Check the setting of the printer driver.  
Check that the ink has not run out.  
Make sure that the PC is on. Remove the Printer  
Interface Card and re-insert it into the PC.  
Contact the vendor of the PC you are using and  
get the latest PC card service software from them.  
Restart your computer.  
The printer doesn’t print in  
color.  
The printer will not turn on  
again or is unable to print after  
the PC goes into sleep mode  
(Suspend or Hibernation) when  
using Windows 3.1x.  
5-8  
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CHAPTER 5 TROUBLESHOOTING  
Print Quality  
Note  
You can clear a print quality problem by replacing an ink cartridge with a  
new one if the Ink LED (  
(BC) LED or  
(MY) LED) is on or  
blinking.  
Question  
Recommendation  
Printed pages contain white  
horizontal lines or the image is  
faint.  
You may clear the problem by cleaning the print  
If the same problem occurs after cleaning, print the  
test print to identify the cartridge that is causing the  
problem and replace the ink cartridge. (See  
ABCDE  
Fig. 5-4 White Horizontal Lines  
or Faint Images  
our authorized service representative.  
Nothing is printed on the page.  
Make sure that the ink cartridges are not empty. If  
they are, replace the ink cartridges. (See “Replacing  
If the same problem occurs, contact your dealer or  
our authorized service representative.  
Fig. 5-5 White Page  
The colors of your print output  
are not what you expected.  
Carry out print head cleaning.  
Try test printing from the maintenance program in  
the printer driver.  
Check to see if the ink cartridges are installed  
correctly and are not empty.  
You can adjust the color by using the custom setting  
in the driver. Colors which printers can express and  
colors you see on monitors are somewhat different.  
The printer may not be able to express exactly some  
colors on your monitor.  
Check if the printer driver settings are correct.  
Vertical lines are not aligned or In Bi-Directional Printing, the printer prints from right  
the outline of characters is  
faint.  
to left and left to right. Therefore, sometimes vertical  
lines may not be aligned. Adjust the alignment through  
the printer driver after carrying out a test print or select  
uni-directional printing in the printer driver.  
Envelopes are stained with ink. When the printer platen gets stained, clean the printer  
The printout is not clear or the  
color is not vivid.  
Use Brother special papers or very white papers.  
Check to see that you are not printing on the reverse  
side of special paper.  
Check if the ink cartridges are installed correctly.  
5-9  
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USER’S GUIDE  
Question  
Recommendation  
Colors are light.  
You may have printed in Draft mode. Set to Normal  
mode or Super Fine mode in the printer driver.  
Some colors are missing.  
Clean the print head several times.  
Ink may have run out. Check to see if you have run  
out of certain ink colors.  
Check if the printer driver settings are correct.  
Select the correct resolution for the media you are  
using.  
Printed paper is damaged by  
excessive ink.  
Printout is fuzzy.  
Clean the print head.  
Use Brother genuine ink and cartridges.  
The space between lines of text Check to see if there is an obstacle in the paper path.  
is narrower than you have set.  
Black lines appears.  
Open the top cover and check.  
Banding appears.  
Check to see if the media setting is correct in the  
printer driver.  
You can carry out horizontal line alignment from  
the printer driver. For details, see Help.  
If the same problem still occurs, contact your dealer or our authorized service  
representative.  
5-10  
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CHAPTER 5 TROUBLESHOOTING  
Caution  
!
Operation of the printer outside the specifications shall be deemed abuse  
and all repairs thereafter shall be the sole liability of the end user  
/purchaser.  
(For USA & CANADA Only)  
For technical and operational assistance, please call:  
In USA  
1-877-284-3238  
(outside California)  
949-859-9700 Ext. 329 (within California)  
1-800-853-6660  
In CANADA  
514-685-6464  
(within Montreal)  
If you have comments or suggestions, please write us at:  
In USA  
Printer Customer Support  
Brother International Corporation  
15 Musick  
Irvine, CA 92718  
In CANADA  
Brother International Corporation (Canada), Ltd.  
- Marketing Dept.  
1, rue Hôtel de Ville  
Dollard-des-Ormeaux, PQ, Canada H9B 3H6  
BBS  
For downloading drivers from our Bulletin Board Service, call:  
In USA  
In CANADA  
1-888-298-3616  
1-514-685-2040  
Please log on to our BBS with your first name, last name and a four digit number for  
your password. Our BBS supports modem speeds up to 14,400, 8 bits no parity, 1  
stop bit.  
Fax-Back System  
Brother Customer Service has installed an easy to use Fax-Back System so you can  
get instant answers to common technical questions and product information for all  
Brother products. This is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can use the  
system to send the information to any fax machine, not just the one you are calling  
from.  
Please call 1-800-521-2846 (USA) or 1-800-681-9838 (Canada) and follow the voice  
prompts to receive faxed instructions on how to use the system and your index of  
Fax-Back subjects.  
DEALERS/SERVICE CENTERS (USA only)  
For the name of an authorized dealer or service center, call 1-800-284-4357.  
SERVICE CENTERS (Canada only)  
For service center addresses in Canada, call 1-800-853-6660  
INTERNET ADDRESS  
For technical questions and downloading drivers: http://www.brother.com  
5-11  
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APPENDIX  
APPENDIX  
PRINTER SPECIFICATIONS  
Printing  
Print Method  
Resolution  
Piezo with 32 X 4 nozzles  
720 X 720 dots per inch (DPI) - Super Fine  
360 X 360 dots per inch (DPI) - Normal  
180 X 360 dots per inch (DPI) - Draft  
Print Speed  
(with Printer Interface Card)  
107 cps at 10 cpi  
Up to 1.7 PPM in full color  
(Brother Standard Test Sheet)  
(with AC Adapter)  
180 cps at 10 cpi  
Up to 2.5(Letter)/2.4(A4) PPM in Blue/Black mode with AC  
Adapter (Brother Standard Test Sheet)  
Up to 2 PPM in full color  
(Brother Standard Test Sheet)  
Print Width  
203.2 mm (8 inches )  
Controller  
Interface  
PCMCIA interface  
Parallel interface  
Control panel  
Diagnostics  
2 buttons and 4 LEDs  
Self-diagnostic program  
Appendix-1  
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USER’S GUIDE  
Electrical and Mechanical  
Power Source  
<Printer Interface Card mode>  
Power Save Mode:  
Stand-by:  
0.6 W  
1.0 W  
Printing-average:  
2.5 W or less  
<AC Adapter mode>  
Power Save Mode:  
Stand-by:  
0.7 W  
1.1 W  
Printing-average:  
3.2 W or less  
Noise  
Printing: 40 dB A or less  
Temperature  
Operating: 10 to 35°C (50 to 95°F )  
Storage:  
-20 to 60°C (-4 to 140°F )  
Humidity  
Operating: 20 to 80% (without condensation)  
Storage: 5 to 95% (without condensation)  
Dimensions (D X W X H)  
Weight  
50.8 X 300 X 106 mm (2.0 X 11.8 X 4.2 inches )  
Approx. 1,000 g. (2.2 lb )  
Print Media  
Paper input  
Manual loading from the Paper Feeding Slot or Automatic  
loading from the Optional Feeder  
Paper Type  
Plain paper, coated paper, glossy paper, transparencies,  
envelopes and organizer sheets  
Paper size: A4,Letter Executive, B5,A5, Legal  
Envelopes: commercial No.10 DL, B5, C5, Monarch  
Organizer: K, L  
Width  
100-215.9 mm  
(3.94-8.5”)  
Length  
Weight  
100-355.6 mm  
(3.94-14”)  
60-157 g/m2.  
(16-42 lb)  
Maximum optional feeder capacity: Approx. 30 sheets  
of 75 g/m2 plain paper.  
Appendix-2  
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APPENDIX  
Paper Output  
1 sheet, face up  
It is recommended that printed sheets are taken from the  
paper output slot immediately after printing.  
Ink  
Twin cartridge system: separate from the print head  
Service Life of Ink Cartridge  
Approx. 250 page / LC03BC at 5% coverage  
Approx. 150 page / LC03MY at 5% coverage  
Appendix-3  
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INDEX  
INDEX  
—A—  
—M—  
misfeed  
(MY) LED  
(Alarm) LED  
Auto Cut Sheet Feeder  
—B—  
—N—  
—O—  
No Cartridge  
(BC) LED  
—C—  
(On/Off) Button  
(On/Off)LED  
operator call  
Clean Button  
clean the print head  
Coated paper  
Color InkJet Glossy Paper  
Cover Open  
Organizer  
Cut sheet  
—P—  
Paper  
Size  
—E—  
Envelopes  
error  
Type  
Paper empty  
recoverable  
unrecoverable  
Paper Feeding Slot  
Paper Feeding Slot Guide  
paper guide  
Paper jam  
Paper Weight Range  
printable area  
—F—  
Feeder Capacity  
—Q—  
—G—  
Quality Coated Paper  
Glossy paper  
for 360 dpi Color Inkjet printing 2-2, 2-4  
—H—  
—R—  
High Quality Coated Paper  
Recommended paper  
Release Lever  
replacing the ink cartridges  
Retry  
for 720 dpi Color InkJet printing 2-2, 2-4  
—I—  
ink cartridges  
Ink Empty  
Ink LEDs  
—S—  
service call  
Ink nearly empty  
Straight Paper Path Slot  
Index-1  
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USER’S GUIDE  
—W—  
—T—  
Windows  
Transparencies  
Index-2  
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