Setting up network scanning on a Canon printer can sometimes be challenging. This article addresses common issues and solutions related to the Canon MF264dw printer and its network scanning capabilities, focusing on the Canon Network Scanning Tool.
The Canon ImageCLASS MF264dw is a multi-function printer designed for small office or home office use. While it offers convenient features like network printing and scanning, users often encounter difficulties configuring the scanning functionality. A common issue stems from downloading only the printer driver without the necessary scanning software utility.
To enable network scanning, both the driver and the Canon MF Scan Utility must be installed. The driver enables basic printer functionality, while the MF Scan Utility provides the interface for controlling and managing scan jobs over the network. These can be downloaded from the official Canon support website. For the MF264dw, the required files are typically the dMF260MFDriverV610W64.exe (driver) and winmfscanutilityv1900.exe (scanning utility).
After installing both components, users should be able to initiate scans from the printer’s control panel or directly from the MF Scan Utility on their computer. However, several specific challenges can still arise.
One common problem is saving scanned documents in PDF format. While the Canon scanning utility may have PDF selected as the data format, scans initiated from the printer’s control panel might still be saved as JPG files. This discrepancy often requires initiating scans directly from the MF Scan Utility software on the PC to ensure proper PDF formatting. This workaround allows users to open scanned documents in PDF viewers like Microsoft Edge.
Another issue involves customizing the destination folder for scanned files. The default save locations might be limited to the Documents or Images folders. While the “Send to Folder” option within the Application Settings of the MF Scan Utility allows selecting an arbitrary destination, it often creates duplicate copies in both the chosen folder and the default “Save In” folder. This redundancy requires users to manually delete duplicate files.
Finally, enabling manual duplex scanning, a feature advertised for the MF264dw, can be confusing. While the help documentation mentions this option within the MF Scan Utility’s Scan Gear settings, it might not be readily visible. Further investigation and potentially contacting Canon support might be necessary to activate this feature.
The separation of driver and scanning utility downloads, along with the presence of a non-functional “MF Network Scanner Selector” in the Windows Start Menu, can contribute to user confusion. Streamlining the installation process with a single download package that includes both driver and scanning software, and clarifying the purpose of listed programs, would significantly improve the user experience.
Ultimately, successfully utilizing the Canon network scanning tool requires downloading and installing both the appropriate driver and the MF Scan Utility. Addressing the specific challenges related to PDF formatting, destination folder customization, and duplex scanning setup will ensure optimal functionality and a smoother scanning experience.
