Setting up the Canon PIXMA TS4150i printer with a USB cable is a simple way to connect the printer directly to a computer. A USB connection can be useful if you don’t want to use Wi-Fi or if you’re having trouble connecting the printer to your wireless network.
This guide explains how to install the ink and paper, connect the printer to your computer with USB, install the required software, and print a test page.
What You Need Before You Start
Before beginning the setup, make sure you have:
- A Canon PIXMA TS4150i printer
- A compatible USB printer cable
- A Windows PC or compatible computer
- The correct Canon printer software and drivers
- Compatible ink cartridges
- A supply of suitable printer paper
Place the printer close enough to your computer for the USB cable to reach comfortably.
Install the Ink
The first step is to install the ink cartridges.
- Turn on the Canon PIXMA TS4150i.
- Open the printer’s ink cartridge cover.
- Wait for the cartridge holder to move into position.
- Remove the new ink cartridges from their packaging.
- Carefully remove the protective tape.
- Insert each cartridge into its correct position.
- Press down gently until the cartridge clicks into place.
- Repeat the process for the remaining cartridge.
- Close the ink cartridge cover.
Avoid touching the electrical contacts or ink outlet on the cartridges, as this can cause printing problems.
Load Paper
Next, load paper into the printer.
- Prepare a stack of clean, flat paper.
- Adjust the paper guides to suit the paper size.
- Load the paper into the appropriate paper tray or feeder.
- Make sure the paper is positioned correctly.
- Avoid filling the tray beyond its maximum capacity.
- Adjust the paper guides so they sit lightly against the paper.
For everyday printing, standard A4 plain paper is generally suitable.
Connect the USB Cable
Once the printer is ready, you can connect it directly to your computer.
- Make sure the printer is switched on.
- Locate the USB port on the printer.
- Insert the printer end of the USB cable into the printer.
- Connect the other end of the USB cable to a USB port on your computer.
- Make sure both connections are secure.
It is usually best to connect the printer when the Canon setup software asks you to do so. If you’ve already connected the cable, the computer may automatically detect the printer.
Install Canon Printer Software
Your computer needs the appropriate Canon software and printer driver to communicate with the PIXMA TS4150i.
- Open a web browser on your computer.
- Go to Canon’s official support website.
- Search for PIXMA TS4150i.
- Select your operating system.
- Download the appropriate printer driver or setup software.
- Open the downloaded installation file.
- Follow the instructions displayed on screen.
- When prompted to choose a connection method, select the USB connection option.
- If the setup program asks you to connect the printer, plug in the USB cable.
- Allow the installation to finish.
Once installation is complete, the Canon PIXMA TS4150i should appear in your computer’s list of available printers.
Set the Canon PIXMA TS4150i as Your Default Printer
If you use the printer regularly, you can set it as your computer’s default printer.
On Windows:
- Open Settings.
- Go to Bluetooth & devices.
- Select Printers & scanners.
- Find the Canon PIXMA TS4150i.
- Open the printer’s settings.
- Select the option to set it as the default printer, if available.
The exact wording and location of these options can vary depending on your version of Windows.
Print a Test Page
After installing the driver, it’s a good idea to print a test page.
- Open Settings on your computer.
- Go to Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.
- Select the Canon PIXMA TS4150i.
- Open the printer properties or preferences.
- Choose the option to print a test page.
If the test page prints successfully, your USB printer setup is complete.
How to Print Using the USB Connection
Once the printer has been installed, printing is straightforward.
- Open the document or photo you want to print.
- Select Print from the application.
- Choose Canon PIXMA TS4150i from the list of printers.
- Select your preferred paper size and print settings.
- Choose the number of copies.
- Click Print.
The computer will send the print job to the printer through the USB cable.
Scan to Your Computer Using USB
The USB connection can also be used for scanning documents to your computer.
- Turn on the printer.
- Place your document face down on the scanner glass.
- Position the document according to the alignment guide.
- Open the Canon scanning software on your computer.
- Select the PIXMA TS4150i.
- Choose your scan settings.
- Start the scan.
- Preview the scanned document if the software provides this option.
- Select where you want to save the scanned file.
- Save the scan to your computer.
Troubleshooting USB Connection Problems
If your computer doesn’t detect the Canon PIXMA TS4150i, try these simple checks.
Check the USB Cable
Make sure the USB cable is firmly connected at both ends. If possible, try another compatible USB cable.
Try Another USB Port
Disconnect the cable and connect it to another USB port on your computer. Avoid using a USB hub while troubleshooting.
Restart the Printer and Computer
Turn off both the printer and computer. Wait a few seconds, then turn them back on and reconnect the USB cable.
Reinstall the Printer Driver
If the printer still isn’t detected, uninstalling and reinstalling the Canon printer software may resolve the problem.
Check the Printer Status
Make sure the printer is switched on and isn’t displaying an error message. Check that paper and ink are installed correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I set up the Canon PIXMA TS4150i without Wi-Fi?
Yes. A direct USB connection can be used to connect the printer to a computer, so you don’t need to connect the printer to your Wi-Fi network for USB printing.
Do I need a USB cable for the setup?
If you’re using a USB connection, you need a compatible USB printer cable. The required cable may not necessarily be included with the printer, depending on the package and market.
Can I scan using USB?
Yes. Once the appropriate Canon software and scanner drivers are installed, you can use the USB connection to scan documents to your computer.
Can I print from my phone using the USB cable?
A direct USB connection is primarily intended for connecting the printer to a computer. For convenient phone printing, a wireless connection and compatible mobile printing features are generally more appropriate.
Conclusion
Setting up the Canon PIXMA TS4150i with a USB cable is a convenient option when you want a direct connection between your printer and computer. Install the ink, load paper, connect the USB cable, install the appropriate Canon software and drivers, and then print a test page to confirm that everything is working correctly.
Once the setup is complete, you can use the USB connection for everyday printing and scanning without needing to configure the printer for Wi-Fi.
