Setting up your Canon PIXMA printer properly is essential for smooth printing, whether you are connecting via WiFi, USB, or mobile devices. This guide will walk you through unboxing, installation, and troubleshooting to ensure your printer is ready to use.
Why Proper Canon PIXMA Printer Setup Is Important?
Installing and configuring your Canon PIXMA printer setup correctly ensures:
✔️ Seamless printing with no connectivity issues.
✔️ Access to full features like scanning and wireless printing.
✔️ Less troubleshooting due to proper driver installation.
✔️ Efficient wireless printing from multiple devices.
Step 1: Unbox and Prepare the Canon PIXMA Printer
Before starting the installation, follow these steps to get the printer ready:
1. Unbox the Printer
- Carefully remove the printer from the box.
- Remove all protective tapes and packaging materials from the printer.
2. Plug in and Power On
- Connect the power cord to an outlet and press the Power button.
- Wait for the printer to initialize.
3. Install Ink Cartridges
- Open the ink cartridge access door.
- Unpack the cartridges and insert them into their respective slots.
- Close the access door and let the printer recognize the ink.
4. Load Paper
- Open the paper tray and adjust the guides.
- Load plain A4 or letter-size paper.
- Close the tray and let the printer detect the paper.
✅ Your printer is now physically set up! Next, let’s connect it to your computer or WiFi.
Step 2: Connect the Canon PIXMA Printer to WiFi
📌 Best for: Wireless printing from multiple devices.
Method 1: Using Printer Control Panel (WiFi Setup Wizard)
- Turn on the printer.
- Press the WiFi button or go to Setup > Wireless LAN Setup.
- Select WiFi Setup Wizard and wait for available networks to appear.
- Choose your WiFi network (SSID) and enter the WiFi password.
- Wait for a confirmation message or a solid WiFi light.
Method 2: Using WPS Button (For Compatible Routers)
- Press the WiFi button on your printer until it blinks.
- Within 2 minutes, press the WPS button on your router.
- The printer will connect automatically.
✅ Your printer is now connected to WiFi! Next, install the drivers.
Step 3: Install Canon PIXMA Printer Drivers (Windows & Mac)
📌 Why install drivers? Without the correct drivers, your printer may not function properly.
1. Download the Driver
- Visit Canon’s official support website.
- Search for your PIXMA printer model (e.g., Canon PIXMA TS3520).
- Select your operating system (Windows/macOS).
- Download the latest printer driver.
2. Install on Windows
- Locate and open the downloaded .exe file.
- Follow the on-screen installation instructions.
- Select WiFi or USB connection when prompted.
- Complete the setup and print a test page.
3. Install on Mac
- Open the .dmg file you downloaded.
- Follow the setup instructions.
- Go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners.
- Click "+", select your printer, and add it.
✅ Your Canon PIXMA printer is now fully installed and ready to print!
Step 4: Set Up Canon PIXMA Printer on Mobile (iOS & Android)
📌 Best for: Printing directly from your smartphone or tablet.
1. Install Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY App
- Download the Canon PRINT app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android).
2. Connect Printer to the App
- Open the Canon PRINT app.
- Tap Add Printer and follow the setup instructions.
- Select your printer from the list and connect via WiFi.
✅ You can now print directly from your mobile device!
Troubleshooting Common Canon PIXMA Printer Setup Issues
1. Printer Not Connecting to WiFi
✔️ Restart the printer and router.
✔️ Move the printer closer to the router.
✔️ Double-check the WiFi password entered.
2. Printer Not Detected by Computer
✔️ Ensure the correct driver is installed.
✔️ Try using a different USB port (if using USB).
✔️ Restart both the printer and computer.
3. Mac Doesn’t Recognize Printer
✔️ Go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners and add it manually.
✔️ Update macOS to the latest version.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I install my Canon PIXMA printer without a CD?
Yes, you can download the driver from Canon’s official website and install it manually.
Q2: How do I reset my Canon PIXMA printer to factory settings?
Go to Setup > Device Settings > Reset Settings > Reset All to restore factory settings.
Q3: How do I check if my Canon PIXMA printer is connected to WiFi?
Print a Network Status Report from the printer’s settings menu.
Q4: Can I use my Canon PIXMA printer with my phone?
Yes, download the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app for mobile printing.
Q5: Why is my printer installed but not printing?
✔️ Ensure it is set as the default printer.
✔️ Check for pending print jobs and clear the queue.
Final Thoughts
Setting up a Canon PIXMA printer is simple when following the right steps. Whether connecting via WiFi, USB, or mobile devices, downloading and installing the correct drivers ensures smooth operation. If you face issues, try the troubleshooting tips above.