Last week, I was trying to print some important documents, and my old printer decided to give up the ghost. I rushed to the store and grabbed the Canon Pixma TR4720, hoping it would solve my problem. But then a nagging question popped into my head: does the Canon Pixma TR4720 have a USB port? This post will answer that question definitively and provide a comprehensive overview of the printer’s connectivity options, helping you avoid the same frustrating situation.

Canon Pixma TR4720: USB Connectivity

This section details the USB capabilities of the Canon Pixma TR4720. We’ll explore the different types of USB connections available and their functionality. Understanding these specifics will help you determine if this printer is suitable for your needs.

USB Type B Port for Printing

The Canon Pixma TR4720 features a standard USB Type B port. This port is primarily used for direct connection to a computer. This allows for printing documents and images directly from the computer without the need for wireless networks. Here’s how you can use it:

Direct Connection: Connect one end of the USB cable to the printer’s Type B port and the other to a USB port on your computer. Install the appropriate drivers, and you’re ready to print. This method is reliable and often faster than wireless printing.
Driver Installation: Canon provides drivers for different operating systems. It’s crucial to download and install the correct driver for your computer. Failure to do so can result in the printer not being recognized.
Troubleshooting Connection Issues: If your computer doesn’t recognize the printer, check the cable, USB ports, and ensure the printer is powered on. Try a different USB cable or port as a test.

USB Memory Card Reader

Unlike some models, the Canon Pixma TR4720 doesn’t include a built-in USB memory card reader. Therefore, you cannot directly print from USB flash drives or memory cards. This is a key distinction to note when considering this printer.

Alternative Methods: To print files from a USB drive or memory card, you’ll first need to transfer those files to your computer. Then, you can print them via the USB Type B connection to the computer, detailed above.

Wireless Connectivity Options

While the Canon Pixma TR4720 primarily utilizes a USB connection for direct printing, it also provides various wireless options for more flexible printing experiences. Let’s dive into those.

Wi-Fi Printing

The Canon Pixma TR4720 offers Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to print wirelessly from smartphones, tablets, and laptops. This eliminates the need for a direct USB cable connection. Setting up Wi-Fi is typically done through the printer’s control panel and your device’s Wi-Fi settings.

Wi-Fi Setup: The printer’s setup guide provides detailed instructions on connecting to your home or office Wi-Fi network. You will typically need to find the printer’s SSID and enter the network password.
Network Compatibility: Ensure your Wi-Fi router supports the necessary frequencies and standards for a stable connection. A 2.4 GHz connection is often recommended for older devices.
Mobile Printing Apps: Canon provides mobile printing apps (such as Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY) that simplify the wireless printing process from smartphones and tablets. These apps can significantly improve the overall printing experience.

Other Wireless Technologies

The printer also supports other printing methods like AirPrint and Mopria print service. These protocols make printing from Apple and Android devices more convenient and easy. Remember to check that your device supports those features.

AirPrint: For Apple devices (iPhones, iPads, Macs), AirPrint allows seamless wireless printing without the need for additional drivers.
Mopria: Android devices can use the Mopria print service to discover and print to compatible printers wirelessly.

Canon Pixma TR4720: Specifications and Features

Does The Canon Pixma Tr4720 Have A Usb Port?

Let’s take a closer look at the key specifications and features of the Canon Pixma TR4720, focusing on aspects that relate to connectivity and usability. Understanding these elements will help you determine if it’s the right printer for your needs.

Print Speed and Resolution

The Canon Pixma TR4720 boasts a decent print speed and resolution, making it suitable for various tasks. However, the print speed can vary based on the document complexity and the print quality settings.

Print Speed: The manufacturer specifies print speeds, but real-world performance may differ. Always check independent reviews for more realistic print speed benchmarks.
Print Resolution: The printer’s resolution directly impacts the quality of printed images and documents. Higher resolution results in sharper and more detailed prints.

Ink Cartridge System

The Canon Pixma TR4720 uses individual ink cartridges. This system offers several advantages, including the ability to replace only the exhausted color cartridge, reducing printing costs. However, it’s important to consider the cost per page.

Individual Cartridges: Replacing only the empty cartridges saves money and reduces waste.
Cost Per Page: Calculate the cost per page based on ink cartridge prices and page yield to determine the printer’s long-term cost-effectiveness.

Paper Handling

This printer provides standard paper handling capabilities, but you should always double check the specifications if you have unique needs.

Paper Tray Capacity: Check the maximum paper capacity of the input tray to ensure it meets your printing volume.
Supported Paper Sizes: Verify that the printer supports the paper sizes you regularly use.

Troubleshooting Common Printing Issues

Sometimes, despite having a clear understanding of the Canon Pixma TR4720’s capabilities, you might encounter printing difficulties. Let’s address some common issues.

Printer Not Recognized

If your computer doesn’t recognize the Canon Pixma TR4720 via USB, several things could be at play. Firstly, make sure the printer is correctly switched on and the USB cable is securely connected. Ensure you have installed the correct driver for your operating system.

Check Connections: Carefully inspect all connections, including the USB cable and power cord.
Driver Installation: Download and install the latest drivers from the Canon website to ensure compatibility.
Restart Devices: Restart your printer and computer to resolve potential software glitches.

Wireless Connection Problems

Wireless connectivity issues often arise from poor signal strength or incorrect network settings. Make sure your printer and computer are within range of your router. Also ensure the Wi-Fi password entered in the printer is correct.

Signal Strength: Move the printer closer to your Wi-Fi router for a stronger signal.
Network Settings: Double-check your network settings to ensure the printer is correctly configured.
Router Interference: Other electronic devices may interfere with the wireless signal; try repositioning your router or printer.

Myths About USB Printing

Myth 1: All USB printers are the same.

This is false. USB printers vary significantly in terms of print speed, resolution, features, and cost. The Canon Pixma TR4720 is just one example, and its specifications differ from other models.

Myth 2: Using a USB connection is always faster than wireless.

While direct USB connections are often faster, it’s not universally true. Wireless speeds depend greatly on your network’s quality and can sometimes match or even exceed USB speeds for less complex print jobs.

Myth 3: A USB Type B connection is obsolete.

The USB Type B connection is still common for printer connectivity, especially for direct, high-speed printing. While USB-C is increasingly popular, Type B remains a standard interface for many printers, like the Canon Pixma TR4720.

FAQ

Does the Canon Pixma TR4720 have a USB port for memory sticks?

No, the Canon Pixma TR4720 does not have a USB port for memory sticks or flash drives. It only features a USB Type B port for connecting directly to a computer.

Can I print wirelessly without a Wi-Fi network?

No, the wireless printing options (Wi-Fi, AirPrint, Mopria) all require a Wi-Fi network connection to operate. For direct printing, you will need a USB connection to your computer.

What type of USB port does the Canon Pixma TR4720 use?

It uses a standard USB Type B port. This is the typical port found on many printers for connecting directly to a computer.

What if my computer doesn’t detect the printer after connecting via USB?

Try these steps: check the cable, make sure the printer is powered on, try a different USB port, and reinstall the printer drivers from Canon’s website.

Can I print from my phone to the Canon Pixma TR4720?

Yes, you can print wirelessly from your smartphone or tablet using Wi-Fi and apps like Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY or through AirPrint/Mopria, depending on your device.

How do I install the Canon Pixma TR4720 drivers?

Download the latest drivers from Canon’s official website for your operating system (Windows, macOS, etc.). Follow the on-screen instructions for the installation.

What if I have issues with wireless printing?

Check your Wi-Fi network connection, ensure your printer is on the same network, try restarting your router and printer, and verify the correct Wi-Fi password is entered.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the connectivity options of your printer is crucial for a smooth printing experience. The Canon Pixma TR4720 primarily uses a USB Type B port for connecting to a computer, offering a reliable and often fast printing method. While it doesn’t feature a USB port for memory cards, its wireless capabilities (Wi-Fi, AirPrint, Mopria) provide flexibility for printing from various devices. By understanding its strengths and limitations, you can confidently choose this printer based on your specific needs and workflow.