The Brother ADS-1700W is an exceptional document scanner that combines advanced scanning technology with user-friendly features. Whether you need to digitize important documents for your business, archive family photos, or streamline your paperwork, the ADS-1700W is equipped to handle it all. However, the first step to unlocking its potential is connecting it to your computer. In this article, we will guide you through the process of connecting your Brother ADS-1700W to your computer, ensuring a smooth and efficient setup that will enhance your scanning experience.
Understanding the Brother ADS-1700W
Before diving into the connection process, it is essential to understand what the Brother ADS-1700W has to offer. This scanner features a compact design, making it perfect for home offices and small workspaces. With a variety of connectivity options including USB and Wi-Fi, users enjoy flexibility and convenience.
Some key features include:
- High-Speed Scanning: The ADS-1700W can scan both color and black-and-white documents at a speed of up to 25 pages per minute.
- Versatile Paper Handling: It accommodates different paper sizes, including receipts, business cards, and documents up to A4 size.
- Automatic Document Feeder (ADF): This feature allows you to scan multiple pages quickly without manual intervention.
- Wireless Connectivity: You can connect the scanner to your network, enabling remote scanning from your computer or mobile device.
The following sections will take you through the vital steps to connect your Brother ADS-1700W to your computer, whether through USB or Wi-Fi.
Preparation for Connection
Before proceeding with the connection, ensure you have met the following prerequisites:
Necessary Items
- Your Brother ADS-1700W scanner
- A computer with a compatible operating system (Windows or macOS)
- A USB cable if you wish to connect via USB
- A stable Wi-Fi network for wireless connection
- Installation CD or access to the Brother support website for drivers
Installing Software and Drivers
Connecting your ADS-1700W requires you to have the correct drivers installed on your computer. Here’s how to set them up:
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Installation CD: If your scanner came with an installation CD, insert it into your computer’s drive. Follow the prompts on the screen to install the necessary software.
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Download Drivers: If you do not have the CD, go to the Brother support website and navigate to the ‘Downloads’ section. Enter your model number (ADS-1700W) to find and download the latest drivers and software.
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Follow Installation Prompts: Once downloaded, open the installer and follow the prompts. During installation, you will typically have the choice to connect your device via USB or Wi-Fi.
Connecting the Brother ADS-1700W via USB
If you prefer a direct connection, USB is an excellent choice. It is straightforward and ideal for users who may not require Wi-Fi access. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Steps to Connect via USB
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Power On the Scanner: Make sure your Brother ADS-1700W is powered on and properly initialized.
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Connect the USB Cable: Use a compatible USB cable (usually included with the scanner). Connect one end to the scanner and the other end to an available USB port on your computer.
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Install Drivers: If you haven’t already installed the drivers, now is the time. Launch the previously downloaded installation program and choose the USB connection option when prompted.
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Test the Connection: After installation, launch scanning software on your computer. Try performing a test scan to ensure the device is connected and functioning correctly.
Connecting the Brother ADS-1700W via Wi-Fi
For those seeking more mobility and flexibility, connecting via Wi-Fi allows you to scan documents without being tethered to your computer. Below are the steps to establish a wireless connection:
Steps to Connect via Wi-Fi
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Network Preparation: Ensure that your Wi-Fi network is functioning properly, and you have the SSID (network name) and password at hand.
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Access the Scanner Menu: On the ADS-1700W, press the ‘Menu’ button to access the control panel.
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Select Network Settings: Navigate to ‘Network’ and select ‘WLAN’ followed by ‘Setup Wizard.’ The scanner will search for available networks.
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Choose Your Network: When prompted, select your Wi-Fi network from the list displayed on the scanner’s screen.
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Enter Password: Input your Wi-Fi password using the scanner’s keypad. Be cautious while entering as it is case-sensitive.
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Confirm Connection: After entering the password, confirm the settings and wait for the scanner to connect to your network. You should see a success message if the connection was established.
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Install Drivers: On your computer, proceed to install the required drivers. During installation, choose the option for wireless connection.
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Test the Connection: Once installation is complete, open your scanning software and perform a test scan to verify that the scanner is correctly connected to your computer via Wi-Fi.
Troubleshooting Connection Issues
Sometimes, users may encounter issues while connecting the Brother ADS-1700W to their computer. Here are some common troubleshooting tips to ensure a smooth setup:
USB Connection Issues
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Cable Check: Ensure that your USB cable is intact and functional. Try using a different USB port or cable if necessary.
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Driver Reinstallation: If the scanner is not recognized by your computer, it may help to uninstall the driver and reinstall the latest version from the Brother website.
Wi-Fi Connection Issues
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Network Settings: Confirm that your scanner is within range of the Wi-Fi router and that other devices can connect to the network without issues.
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Re-enter Credentials: If you suspect that the password was typed incorrectly, you can repeat the setup wizard steps to re-enter your SSID and password.
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Firewall Settings: Sometimes, firewall settings on your computer may block the connection. Ensure that the Brother software is permitted through your firewall.
Utilizing Your Brother ADS-1700W for Scanning
Once your Brother ADS-1700W is connected to your computer, you can start scanning documents. Here’s how to effectively use your scanner:
Basic Scanning Process
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Load Documents: Place the document you wish to scan into the Automatic Document Feeder (ADF) of the scanner.
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Select Scan Settings: Open the Brother scanning software on your computer and select your scan settings. Adjust the resolution, file type (PDF, JPEG, etc.), and color settings as needed.
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Initiate Scan: Press ‘Scan’ on your computer or the scanner to begin the scanning process.
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Save Scanned Files: Once the scan is complete, save the file to your desired location on your computer.
Advanced Features
Take advantage of the additional features of the ADS-1700W to enhance your scanning experience:
Double-sided Scanning
The ADS-1700W supports duplex scanning, allowing you to scan both sides of a document in a single pass. Ensure that this feature is enabled in your scanning software settings for efficient document management.
Creating Multi-page PDFs
For documents that span multiple pages, the Brother ADS-1700W can create a single PDF file. Set the scanning software to combine several scans into one file, making it easier for archiving.
Conclusion
Connecting your Brother ADS-1700W to your computer is a crucial first step in leveraging its powerful scanning capabilities. Whether you opt for a USB connection or choose the convenience of Wi-Fi, the process can be completed in a few straightforward steps. By following this guide, you can easily set up your scanner, troubleshoot any potential issues, and make the most of its features.
With your Brother ADS-1700W now connected, you’ll be well-equipped to streamline your document management tasks. Happy scanning!
What are the system requirements to connect the Brother ADS-1700W to my computer?
To connect the Brother ADS-1700W to your computer, your system should be running one of the supported operating systems, which typically include Windows 7 or later and macOS versions compatible with the scanner. It’s important to check the Brother website or the product manual for the most up-to-date and specific system requirements to ensure compatibility.
Additionally, you’ll need to have a stable network connection if you are using the wireless functionality. A USB connection is also an option, but if you choose to connect wirelessly, ensure that your computer and the scanner are both connected to the same Wi-Fi network for optimal performance.
How do I set up the Brother ADS-1700W for the first time?
Setting up the Brother ADS-1700W for the first time involves a few straightforward steps. Firstly, unpack the scanner and place it on a flat surface away from direct sunlight and moisture. Next, plug in the power cord, turn the scanner on, and follow the on-screen instructions to select your language and configure the initial settings.
After that, you can choose to connect the scanner via USB or set up the wireless connection. If you’re opting for wireless, navigate to the Wi-Fi settings on the scanner to find your network and enter the password to connect. Make sure to install the necessary drivers and software on your computer from the provided CD or the Brother website to complete the setup.
Can I connect the Brother ADS-1700W wirelessly?
Yes, the Brother ADS-1700W can be connected wirelessly to your computer. To enable wireless connectivity, you will need to ensure that the scanner is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your computer. This can be achieved during the setup process by selecting the wireless option and entering your Wi-Fi credentials on the scanner’s interface.
Once the connection is established, you can use the scanner from your computer without needing additional cables. This wireless feature not only provides flexibility in terms of placement of the scanner but also allows multiple users on the same network to access the device.
What software do I need to install to use the Brother ADS-1700W?
To effectively use the Brother ADS-1700W, you need to install the appropriate drivers and management software provided by Brother. The essential software typically includes the Brother ControlCenter, which allows you to perform scanning operations and configure settings easily. This software can usually be found on the accompanying CD or downloaded from the Brother support site.
Make sure to install any additional software that may enhance your scanning capabilities, such as OCR software or document management applications. Installing all recommended software will ensure that you can make full use of the scanner’s features and integrate it seamlessly with your preferred document workflow.
How do I troubleshoot connection issues with my Brother ADS-1700W?
If you experience connection issues with your Brother ADS-1700W, first check that both your scanner and computer are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. It’s beneficial to restart both devices and check the network settings to ensure that the connection is stable. Sometimes, a weak signal can lead to connectivity problems, so consider repositioning your router or the scanner for better reception.
If the issue persists, try reinstalling the scanner drivers on your computer. Visit the Brother support website to download the latest versions of the drivers and software. Following the installation, redo the connection process and ensure all settings are correctly configured according to your network specifications.
What is the maximum scanning resolution of the Brother ADS-1700W?
The Brother ADS-1700W offers a maximum optical scanning resolution of up to 600 x 600 dpi (dots per inch). This resolution is sufficient for producing clear and detailed documents, making it ideal for tasks that involve scanning important paperwork, images, or presentations that require high fidelity and precision.
Keep in mind that you also have options for adjusting the scanning resolution depending on your needs. Lowering the resolution can result in faster scan times and smaller file sizes, which can be advantageous for everyday scanning tasks where ultra-high fidelity is not required.
Can the Brother ADS-1700W scan directly to cloud services?
Yes, the Brother ADS-1700W is designed to support scanning directly to various cloud services, including Dropbox, Google Drive, and others. This feature allows you to easily save and share scanned documents without the intermediate step of transferring files from your computer. To use this function, you will need to navigate to the scanner’s settings and log in to your cloud account.
Once you set up your account, just select the desired cloud service on the scanner’s interface before you begin scanning. This convenient feature streamlines your workflow, making it easier to manage documents and access them from any device connected to your cloud storage.