Brother MFC-8520DN Manual

The Brother MFC-8520DN is a monochrome laser All-in-One printer featuring print, copy, scan, and fax capabilities. It offers high-speed printing up to 31ppm, automatic duplex printing, a 250-sheet paper tray, network connectivity (Ethernet), PC-Fax functionality, and a flatbed scanner. Ideal for small to medium offices, it supports various media types and includes security features. 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 & Operation 5. Printing 6. Copying 7. Scanning 8. Faxing 9. Maintenance & Supplies 10. Network Setup 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Control Panel with LCD, Paper Tray, Flatbed Scanner, Automatic Document Feeder (ADF), Toner Cartridge, Network Port, USB Port, Phone Line Jacks.

FeatureDescription
Print SpeedUp to 31 pages per minute (ppm)
Duplex PrintingAutomatic two-sided printing
Paper Capacity250-sheet standard tray
Scanner TypeFlatbed + ADF (50 sheets)
ConnectivityEthernet (10/100/1000), USB 2.0
FaxSuper G3, PC-Fax capability
Control Panel2-line LCD display, navigation keys
Supported MediaPlain, recycled, labels, envelopes, cardstock
Duty CycleUp to 15,000 pages per month
SecuritySecure Print, Network Lock

Installation & Setup

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

  1. Install Toner: Open front cover, remove packaging, insert toner cartridge, close cover.
  2. Load Paper: Pull out tray, adjust guides, load paper (face down), reinsert tray.
  3. Connect Cables: Attach power cord, Ethernet cable to network, and phone line for fax.
  4. Power On: Press power button, follow LCD prompts for initial setup.
  5. Install Drivers: Use installation CD or download from Brother website for your OS.

WARNING! Do not touch the green drum surface of the toner cartridge. Avoid placing in humid or dusty locations.

Specifications

Controls & Operation

Control Panel: POWER, LCD (2-line), Navigation arrows, OK, Back, Stop/Exit, Start (Black/Color), Fax Start, Copy, Scan.

Menu Navigation: Use arrows to navigate menus (General Setup, Fax, Copy, Scan, Network). Press OK to select.

Basic Operations: Press FUNCTION key to select Print, Copy, Scan, or Fax mode. Use number keys for direct entries (fax numbers, copy quantity).

Settings: Access via MENU button. Configure paper size, default print settings, network parameters, fax header, sleep timer, and security options.

Printing

Supports printing from computer, network, and mobile devices (via Brother iPrint&Scan).

  1. Ensure printer is on and connected to network or USB.
  2. From application, select File > Print, choose Brother MFC-8520DN.
  3. Set preferences: Duplex, paper size, quality, number of copies.
  4. Click Print. Job appears in queue and prints.
  5. For Secure Print: Select Secure Print in driver, enter PIN. Release at printer via control panel.

Tip: For best quality, use Brother Genuine toner and recommended paper.

Copying

Make copies directly from the control panel.

  1. Place original on scanner glass or in ADF (face up).
  2. Press COPY button on control panel.
  3. Use number keys to set quantity (1-99).
  4. Adjust settings if needed: Press MENU for Darkness, Reduce/Enlarge, Paper Size, 2-sided copy.
  5. Press Black Start or Color Start (for grayscale) to begin copying.

Note: For multiple copies using ADF, ensure originals are aligned and within weight limit.

Scanning

Scan to computer, network folder, email, or USB memory (if supported).

  1. Place document on glass or in ADF.
  2. Press SCAN button on control panel.
  3. Select Scan Mode: Scan to PC, Scan to Network, Scan to Email.
  4. Navigate to choose destination (PC name, folder path, email address).
  5. Adjust scan settings (Resolution, File Format, Size).
  6. Press Start to scan. File is sent to selected destination.

Software: Use Brother ControlCenter software for one-touch scanning to applications.

Faxing

Send and receive faxes via phone line or PC-Fax.

  1. Connect phone line to LINE jack on rear.
  2. Place document in ADF or on glass.
  3. Press FAX button.
  4. Dial number using keypad or speed dial.
  5. Adjust settings if needed (Resolution, Contrast).
  6. Press Black Start to send.
  7. For PC-Fax: Use Brother software to send fax directly from computer.

Fax Setup: Configure header information (name, number) and ring settings in Fax Menu.

Maintenance & Supplies

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

CAUTION! Unplug power before cleaning interior. Do not use abrasive cleaners.

Network Setup

Configure wired (Ethernet) or wireless (if model supports) network connection.

  1. Connect Ethernet cable from router to printer.
  2. On control panel, press MENU > Network > Wired LAN.
  3. Select TCP/IP > Get IP Address: Auto to use DHCP.
  4. Print Network Configuration Report to verify IP address.
  5. Install drivers on computers, selecting network connection during setup.

Wireless Setup: Use MENU > Network > Wireless LAN Wizard to connect to Wi-Fi network.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Printer not printingConnection, driver, paper jamCheck cables/network; reinstall driver; clear any paper jam.
Poor print qualityLow toner, dirty drumReplace toner; clean corona wire inside toner area.
Paper jams frequentlyPaper type, loaded incorrectlyUse recommended paper; ensure guides are snug; fan paper before loading.
Scanner not workingSoftware, connectionReinstall Brother software; ensure USB/network connection is active.
Fax not sending/receivingPhone line, settingsCheck phone line connection; verify fax header and ring settings.
Machine not powering onPower source, outletEnsure power cord is securely plugged into working outlet.

Reset: Menu > General Setup > Reset > Reset Machine (returns to factory defaults).

Support: Brother Customer Service: 1-877-276-8437; www.brother-usa.com

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