Brother DCP-165C Manual

The Brother DCP-165C is a multifunction inkjet printer featuring printing, scanning, and copying capabilities. It offers high-quality color printing, flatbed scanning, PC-Fax functionality (when connected to a computer), and user-friendly operation with a compact design. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. Specifications 4. Controls and Indicators 5. Loading Paper & Ink Cartridges 6. Basic Printing Operations 7. Scanning & Copying 8. PC-Fax Operation (Optional) 9. Maintenance & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Print/Scan/Copy unit, Control Panel, Paper Tray, Flatbed Scanner, Ink Cartridge Compartment, USB Port.

FeatureDescription
MultifunctionPrint, Scan, Copy in one device
Print TechnologyInkjet
Scanner TypeFlatbed Color Scanner
Paper HandlingStandard paper tray
ConnectivityUSB 2.0 (to computer)
Control PanelLCD display, function buttons
PC-FaxSend/receive faxes via connected computer (software required)
Ink SystemIndividual color cartridges (Black, Cyan, Magenta, Yellow)
Copy FeaturesPhoto copy, reduce/enlarge
Supported MediaPlain paper, photo paper, envelopes

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on a stable, level surface near a power outlet and computer.

  1. Install Ink Cartridges: Open front cover, remove protective tape from cartridges, insert into correct slots until they click.
  2. Load Paper: Adjust paper guides in tray, load paper print-side down.
  3. Connect to Power: Plug power cord into printer and wall outlet.
  4. Connect to Computer: Use USB cable to connect printer to computer.
  5. Install Software: Insert driver CD or download from Brother website; follow on-screen instructions.

WARNING! Do not touch print head or ink contacts. Ensure all protective materials are removed.

Specifications

Controls and Indicators

Control Panel includes LCD, Navigation buttons, and function keys.

Main Buttons: POWER, COPY (Black/Color), SCAN, FAX (for PC-Fax mode), MENU, SET, Black/Color Start buttons.

Indicators (LEDs): Power, Error, Ink/Paper status.

LCD Messages: Displays status, menu options, copy count, error codes.

Menu Settings: Access via MENU button for copy settings (number of copies, contrast, reduce/enlarge), scanner settings, report printing, and maintenance functions.

Loading Paper & Ink Cartridges

Paper Loading:

  1. Pull out paper tray.
  2. Adjust guides to paper size.
  3. Load paper print-side down, stack below max mark.
  4. Re-insert tray.

Ink Cartridge Replacement:

  1. Open front cover; print head moves to center.
  2. Press ink cartridge latch to release old cartridge.
  3. Remove new cartridge from package, remove protective tape.
  4. Insert into correct slot until it clicks.
  5. Close front cover; printer will prime ink system.

Tip: Use only genuine Brother ink cartridges. Do not turn off printer during replacement.

Basic Printing Operations

From your computer, ensure printer driver is installed.

  1. Open document and select Print.
  2. Choose "Brother DCP-165C" as printer.
  3. Adjust settings (paper size, quality, orientation) in print dialog.
  4. Click Print.
  5. Monitor printer status via control panel LEDs/LCD.

Direct Copy (without PC):

  1. Place original face down on scanner glass.
  2. Press COPY (Black or Color).
  3. Use Navigation buttons to adjust number of copies (1-99) or settings.
  4. Press Black or Color Start button to begin copying.

Scanning & Copying

Scanning to Computer:

  1. Install scanning software (included).
  2. Place original on scanner glass.
  3. Press SCAN button on printer or use computer software to initiate scan.
  4. Select destination (image file, email, OCR) in software.

Copying:

  1. Place original on scanner glass.
  2. Press COPY button (Black for B&W, Color for color).
  3. Adjust settings: Use MENU/SET to change copy ratio (50% to 200%), contrast, or quality.
  4. Press Start button.

WARNING! Do not force scanner lid closed on thick originals.

PC-Fax Operation (Optional)

Requires installation of Brother PC-FAX software and connection to a phone line via computer modem.

  1. Ensure PC-FAX software is installed and configured.
  2. Place original on scanner glass.
  3. On printer control panel, press FAX button (or use software interface).
  4. Enter recipient fax number using numeric keys (if available on software).
  5. Start transmission.
  6. Receive faxes automatically to computer; can be printed via printer.

Note: PC-FAX functionality depends on computer and software configuration.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug printer before cleaning exterior. Use soft, dry cloth; do not use alcohol or solvents.

Print Head Cleaning: If print quality declines, run automatic cleaning via printer driver utility or control panel menu (MAINTENANCE > CLEAN PRINT HEAD).

Scanner Glass Cleaning: Use lint-free cloth lightly dampened with water; dry thoroughly.

CAUTION! Never spray cleaner directly on printer. Keep vents clear of dust.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © Brother Industries, Ltd. For support, visit support.brother.com or contact Brother Customer Service at 1-877-276-8437.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Printer not powering onPower connectionCheck power cord is plugged in securely at both ends; ensure outlet is working.
Poor print quality/streaksClogged print head/low inkRun print head cleaning utility; check ink levels; replace empty cartridges.
Paper jamsMisloaded paper/obstructionsTurn off printer, open covers, gently remove jammed paper in direction of paper path.
Scanner not workingSoftware/driver issuesReinstall scanner driver/software; ensure USB connection is secure.
PC-Fax not sendingPhone line/software configCheck phone line connection to computer modem; verify software settings.
Error light flashingGeneral errorRefer to LCD message; open and close front cover; turn printer off/on.

Reset: Turn printer off, wait 10 seconds, turn on. For persistent issues, use driver utility to restore defaults.

Service: 1-877-276-8437; support.brother.com

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