Brother MFC-8420 Manual

The Brother MFC-8420 is a multifunction center featuring fax, copy, print, and scan capabilities. Designed for office use, it offers high-speed performance, a 250-sheet paper capacity, PC-Fax functionality, and network connectivity. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Fax Operation 8. Copy & Scan Functions 9. Maintenance & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Multifunction control panel, Document feeder, Paper trays, Network interface, Handset, USB and parallel ports.

FeatureDescription
Fax capability33.6 Kbps modem, 250-page memory, broadcasting
Print speedUp to 20 pages per minute (black)
Copy resolutionUp to 600 x 600 dpi
Paper capacity250 sheets (standard)
Automatic Document Feeder (ADF)30-page capacity for multi-page fax/copy/scan
ConnectivityUSB 2.0, Ethernet, parallel port
PC-FaxSend/receive faxes directly from computer
Telephone handsetFor voice calls and manual fax sending
LCD display2-line backlit display for menu navigation
Energy savingSleep mode to reduce power consumption

Installation

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

  1. Install consumables: Load paper into tray; install toner cartridge.
  2. Connect telephone line: Plug line cord into LINE jack on rear.
  3. Connect to computer: Use USB cable for direct connection or Ethernet for network.
  4. Connect power cord: Plug into AC outlet.

WARNING! Do not place near heat sources or in humid environments. Ensure proper ventilation.

First-Time Setup

Power on device; follow LCD prompts.

  1. Set date/time: Use control panel to enter current date and time.
  2. Load telephone numbers: Program speed-dial entries if needed.
  3. Install drivers: Use included CD or download from Brother website for PC/Mac.
  4. Configure network: Assign IP address via control panel menu for network models.
  5. Test functions: Print test page; send test fax.

CAUTION! Keep packaging materials away from children.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access menus via control panel buttons and LCD display.

Control Panel: START, STOP, MENU, UP/DOWN arrows, SET, ON LINE, FAX, COPY, SCAN.

Fax Settings: Transmission mode (Fine/Super Fine), redial, fax header, activity report. Copy Settings: Copy ratio (25%-400%), darkness, quality. Scan Settings: Resolution, file format (PDF, JPEG), destination. System Settings: Date/time, network setup, default settings, maintenance.

Connecting Devices

Telephone: LINE jack for wall outlet; EXT jack for external phone or answering machine. Computer: USB or Ethernet. Network: Ethernet cable to router.

  1. Turn off device before connecting cables.
  2. Match cables to correct ports (e.g., telephone line to LINE).
  3. For network, configure TCP/IP settings via control panel.

Tip: Use surge protector for power and telephone lines.

Fax Operation

Supports manual, automatic, and PC-fax transmission.

  1. Load document: Place face down in ADF or on glass.
  2. Dial number: Use keypad or speed dial.
  3. Send: Press START; monitor transmission via display.
  4. Receive: Set to AUTO mode for automatic reception; TEL mode for manual answer.
  5. Memory: Stores received faxes if paper/toner runs out.
  6. Broadcast: Send to multiple destinations.
  7. Redial: Automatically redials if busy.

WARNING! Do not send fax during thunderstorms; disconnect telephone line.

Copy & Scan Functions

Copy: Place original, set copies/darkness/size, press COPY then START. Scan: Place original, press SCAN, select destination (PC, USB, network), adjust settings, press START.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug before cleaning. Use dry, lint-free cloth; clean glass and ADF rollers gently.

Regular Tasks: Replace toner; clean paper path; update firmware.

CAUTION! Do not use alcohol or abrasive cleaners on surfaces.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15, 68 compliant. UL listed. Energy Star qualified. Copyright © Brother Industries, Ltd. For support, visit support.brother.com or contact Brother Customer Service at 1-877-276-8437.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerPower cord, outletEnsure cord plugged in; try different outlet; check power switch.
Paper jamsPaper loaded incorrectly, worn rollersOpen covers, remove jammed paper; reload paper properly; clean rollers.
Poor print qualityLow toner, dirty drumReplace toner cartridge; clean inside of machine.
Fax not sending/receivingTelephone line, settingsCheck line connection; verify fax mode is on; test with another phone.
Scanner not workingDriver, connectionReinstall scanner driver; check USB/Ethernet cable.

Reset: Menu > Initial Setup > Reset to factory defaults if needed.

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

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