Brother MFC-230C Manual

The Brother MFC-230C is a compact Multi-Function Center featuring printing, scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities. It offers monochrome laser printing, flatbed scanning, PC-Fax functionality, and a 250-sheet paper capacity. Compatible with Windows and Mac, it includes USB 2.0 connectivity, a 20-page automatic document feeder (ADF), and energy-saving modes. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Laser printer, Flatbed scanner, Copier, Fax machine, Control panel, Paper tray, Automatic Document Feeder (ADF).

Feature	Description
Print Technology	Monochrome laser
Print Speed	Up to 20 pages per minute
Scan Resolution	Up to 1200 x 1200 dpi
Paper Capacity	250 sheets (standard)
Automatic Document Feeder	20 sheets
Connectivity	USB 2.0
Fax Memory	Up to 512KB (approx. 160 pages)
Copy Features	Reduce/Enlarge, N-Up, Toner Save
Control Panel	LCD display, navigation buttons, numeric keypad
Power Source	120V AC, 60Hz

Installation

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

1. Remove all packaging tape and protective materials from inside and outside the unit.
2. Install the toner cartridge: Open front cover, remove packing material, insert cartridge until it clicks.
3. Load paper: Pull out paper tray, adjust guides, load up to 250 sheets of plain paper.
4. Connect power cord to the back of the machine and plug into a grounded outlet.
5. Connect USB cable to computer (for initial driver installation).

WARNING! Do not touch the green drum surface of the toner cartridge. Avoid placing in direct sunlight or high humidity.

First-Time Setup

Power on the machine; follow on-screen prompts on your computer.

1. Install software: Insert the included CD or download drivers from Brother website. Follow installation wizard.
2. Configure basic settings: Use control panel to set date, time, and fax header (if used).
3. Test print: Print a test page from the driver or by holding down the 'Go' button for 3 seconds.
4. Register your product online for support and updates.

CAUTION! Ensure proper ventilation; keep at least 4 inches of clearance on all sides.

Specifications

• Type: Monochrome Laser Multi-Function Center.
• Functions: Print, Scan, Copy, Fax.
• Print Resolution: Up to 2400 x 600 dpi.
• Scan Type: Flatbed + ADF (CIS).
• Copy Speed: Up to 20 cpm.
• Fax Transmission Speed: Approx. 6 seconds per page.
• Modem Speed: 33.6 Kbps.
• Compatibility: Windows XP/Vista/7/8/10, Mac OS X 10.5.8 or later.
• Dimensions (W x D x H): 15.7" x 15.7" x 12.6".
• Weight: Approx. 22 lbs.
• Power Consumption: Approx. 470W (printing), 65W (ready), 2.5W (sleep).

Controls and Settings

Access functions via the Control Panel LCD and buttons.

Control Panel: LCD Display, 'Go' Button, Stop/Exit, Navigation Arrows, OK, Menu, Copy, Fax, Scan, Numeric Keypad, Mono/Color Start (for fax/copy), Resolution, Toner Save.

Menu Settings: Device Settings (date/time, buzzer volume, energy saver), Fax Settings (header, redial, ECM), Network Settings (if applicable), Report Settings, Maintenance (drum cleaning, print quality).

Connecting to Computer

USB Connection: Use included USB cable.

1. Ensure the machine and computer are powered off.
2. Connect the USB cable to the port on the back of the machine and to an available USB port on your computer.
3. Power on the machine, then start the computer.
4. Install the driver software as prompted.

Tip: For best performance, connect directly to a computer USB port, not through a hub.

Printing & Copying

Supports standard paper sizes up to Letter (8.5" x 11").

1. Printing from PC: Select 'Brother MFC-230C' as your printer in the application's print dialog.
2. Making Copies:
   • Place original on scanner glass or in ADF.
   • Press 'Copy' on control panel.
   • Use arrows to set number of copies (1-99).
   • Press 'Mono Start' (black) or 'Color Start' (if scanning in color for fax) to begin.
3. Copy Features: Press 'Menu' during copy mode for Reduce/Enlarge, Toner Save, N-Up (2/4 pages on one sheet).
4. Interrupt Mode: Press 'Copy' during a print job to temporarily pause and make a copy.

WARNING! Do not look directly at the laser beam inside the machine. Keep hands clear of paper path during operation.

Scanning & Faxing

Scanning to PC: Install Brother software. Use 'Scan' button or PC application to initiate scan. Choose destination (file, email, OCR).

Faxing:

1. Connect telephone line to LINE port on back of machine.
2. Set fax header (your name/number) in Fax Settings menu.
3. Place document, dial number using keypad, press 'Mono Start'.
4. Use memory fax if line is busy (machine stores and retries).

Receiving Fax: Set mode in menu (Fax Only, Tel/Fax, Answering Machine).

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug machine before cleaning exterior. Use a soft, dry cloth. For interior paper dust, use a clean, dry cloth or approved vacuum.

Toner Cartridge Replacement: When toner low message appears, open front cover, remove old cartridge, unpack new one, shake gently, insert fully, close cover.

Drum Unit Replacement: Recommended after approx. 12,000 pages. Order Brother DR-230 drum unit.

CAUTION! Do not use alcohol or ammonia-based cleaners. Do not touch the transfer roller (black roller inside).

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with limits for residential use. ICES-003: Class B digital apparatus. This product meets ENERGY STAR® guidelines for energy efficiency. Copyright © Brother Industries, Ltd. For support, visit support.brother.com or contact Brother Customer Service at 1-877-267-8437.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Machine does not power on	Power cord, outlet	Ensure power cord is securely connected; try a different outlet.
Poor print quality	Toner low, drum, paper	Replace toner cartridge; clean corona wire inside cartridge; use recommended paper.
Paper jams	Paper path, worn rollers	Open covers and carefully remove jammed paper; ensure paper guides are set correctly.
Scanner not working	Driver, connection	Reinstall scanner driver; ensure USB cable is secure.
Fax not sending/receiving	Phone line, settings	Check phone line connection; ensure correct fax mode is selected; verify recipient number.
'Toner Low' or 'Drum Life' message	Consumable life	Prepare replacement toner cartridge (TN-210) or drum unit (DR-230).

Reset: Menu > Initial Setup > Reset > All Settings (Note: This clears all programmed data).

Service: 1-877-267-8437; www.brother-usa.com