Configuration/Firmware Settings 3.6

Configure Printer Properties

Manage settings like name, location, and sharing in Windows.

General Printer Properties

Shows printer name, location, and basic info (e.g., model, paper size).

Change Printer Name

Modify printer name for clarity in networked environments.

View Printer Info

Check model, paper size, color capability, and print speed.

Share a Printer

Make a printer available to other users on the network.

Render Print Jobs

Allows client computers to process print jobs instead of the host PC.

Manage Print Drivers

Install additional drivers for different Windows versions (e.g., 32-bit).

Printer Ports

Set connection type (USB, network, parallel, serial).

Configure Port

Set IP address and protocol (LPR preferred over RAW).

Enable Printer Pooling

Use multiple printers as one device for load balancing.

Spooling

Saves print jobs to disk before printing, allowing multitasking.

Print Directly

Sends print jobs one at a time, not efficient for shared printers.

Color Management

Adjusts color settings if prints are off or incorrect.

Manage Printer Security

Set user permissions for printing and managing documents.

Device Settings

Check additional hardware features (e.g., paper tray, serial number).

Print Management Tool

Centralized tool for managing multiple printers and servers.

Print Server Properties

Manage forms, ports, drivers, and security on print servers.

Spool Folder

Location where spooled print jobs are temporarily stored.

Duplex

Prints on both sides of the paper; saves paper, often used in office settings.

Orientation

Sets layout of print job; Portrait (vertical) or Landscape (horizontal).

Tray settings

Selects which paper tray to pull from; useful for different paper sizes or types.

Quality

Adjusts print resolution; higher quality = better image but slower print and more ink.

Printer Firmware

Firmware is the low-level software embedded in the printer that controls hardware functions and processes.

Firmware Functions

Firmware starts the printer system, connects it to the network, interprets incoming data streams, and runs the printing process.

Firmware Updates

Purpose of firmware updates is to fix bugs, patch security vulnerabilities, improve compatibility, and add features.

Benefits of Firmware Updates

Updating firmware helps avoid incompatibilities and resolves printing or network issues.

Where to Get Firmware Updates

Firmware updates can usually be obtained from the device manufacturer’s website.

Update Process

Each multifunction device may have a different process for updating firmware—refer to official documentation.

Methods of Updating Firmware

Firmware updates can be performed via the printer’s configuration interface, vendor software, or web-based management page.

Automatic Firmware Updates

Business-class printers may support automatic firmware updates when connected to the internet.

Update Verification

Always verify printer model and firmware version before updating to avoid compatibility problems.

Update Impact

Firmware updates may temporarily interrupt printing services and require a printer restart.

Centralized Update Management

In organizations, firmware updates are often managed centrally through print servers or fleet management tools.

Importance of Firmware Updates

Keeping printer firmware up to date ensures reliability, performance, and security compliance.