Canon MG3520 Instruction Manual: A Comprehensive Guide
Welcome! This detailed guide‚ current as of November 28‚ 2025‚ unlocks the full potential of your Canon MG3520‚ offering step-by-step instructions for seamless operation.
The Canon MG3520 is a versatile all-in-one inkjet printer designed for home and small office use. As of today‚ November 28‚ 2025‚ it remains a popular choice due to its affordability and functionality. This printer excels at delivering high-quality prints‚ scans‚ and copies‚ all within a compact footprint.
This instruction manual serves as your comprehensive resource‚ guiding you through every aspect of the MG3520‚ from initial setup to advanced features. We’ll cover unboxing‚ installation‚ connectivity options – including USB and Wi-Fi – and detailed printing/scanning procedures. Troubleshooting tips and maintenance schedules are also included to ensure long-lasting performance. Prepare to explore the capabilities of your new Canon printer!
Unboxing and Package Contents
Carefully unpack your Canon MG3520‚ ensuring you have a clean and spacious workspace as of November 28‚ 2025. The box should contain the printer itself‚ a set of initial ink cartridges (typically black and color)‚ a power cord‚ a USB connection cable‚ and essential documentation.
Important documents include the setup guide‚ safety information‚ and warranty details. Retain these for future reference. Before proceeding‚ visually inspect all components for any signs of shipping damage. If damage is present‚ contact your retailer immediately. Proper unboxing sets the stage for a smooth installation process‚ maximizing your printer’s lifespan and performance.
What’s in the Box?
As of November 28‚ 2025‚ your Canon MG3520 package includes the printer unit itself‚ designed for home and office use. You’ll find a standard black ink cartridge (PG-245) and a tri-color cartridge (CL-246) for vibrant prints. A power cord is provided to connect the printer to a power outlet‚ ensuring reliable operation.
Connectivity is covered with a USB cable for direct computer connection. Crucially‚ the box also contains a printer setup guide‚ a warranty card‚ and safety instructions. These documents are vital for proper installation and understanding your printer’s features. Verify all items are present before discarding the packaging.
Checking for Damage
Upon receiving your Canon MG3520 (as of November 28‚ 2025)‚ carefully inspect the box for any visible signs of damage during shipping. Look for dents‚ punctures‚ or crushing that could indicate internal harm. Gently open the box and examine the printer itself‚ checking for cracks or broken parts.
Verify all included accessories – ink cartridges‚ power cord‚ USB cable‚ and documentation – are present and undamaged. If any damage is detected‚ do not attempt to use the printer. Immediately contact the retailer or Canon support‚ providing details of the damage and your purchase date. Retain all packaging materials for potential return or claim processing.
Initial Setup and Installation
Before beginning (current as of November 28‚ 2025)‚ ensure you have a stable surface near a power outlet. Remove all packing materials from the printer‚ including any protective tapes. This initial phase involves connecting the power cord and installing the ink cartridges – detailed in subsequent sections.
Next‚ load paper into the paper tray‚ adjusting the guides for proper alignment. The MG3520 supports various paper types and sizes. Finally‚ connect the printer to your computer via USB or configure the wireless connection. Download and install the necessary drivers and software from the Canon website for optimal functionality.
Connecting to Power
Essential first step: (as of November 28‚ 2025) Locate the power cord included in the box. Insert the larger end firmly into the back of the Canon MG3520 printer‚ ensuring a secure connection. Then‚ plug the other end into a standard electrical outlet.
Verify the outlet is functioning correctly. Press the power button on the printer; the power LED should illuminate‚ indicating a successful connection. Do not use an extension cord if possible; direct connection is recommended. The printer will initiate its internal startup sequence‚ preparing for further setup steps.
Installing Ink Cartridges
Crucial step: (current as of November 28‚ 2025) Open the printer cover – the printer will automatically power on if it was off. Wait for the cartridge carriage to move to the center. Gently open the cartridge cover. Insert each ink cartridge into its corresponding color-coded slot (Black‚ Color).
Ensure proper alignment and press down until you hear a click. Close the cartridge cover and then the printer cover. The printer will now initialize the ink system‚ which may take a few minutes. Do not interrupt this process.
Loading Paper
Paper preparation is key: (current as of November 28‚ 2025) Fan the stack of paper to prevent sticking. Adjust the paper guides on the rear paper tray to fit the paper width. Load the paper into the tray‚ ensuring it isn’t overfilled – the maximum capacity is 100 sheets of plain paper.
Proper alignment matters! The paper should sit neatly within the guides. Extend the paper support firmly. For different paper types (like envelopes)‚ adjust the tray settings accordingly. Always check the paper type setting in the printer driver for optimal results.
Connecting to Your Computer/Devices
Establish a connection: (current as of November 28‚ 2025) The Canon MG3520 offers versatile connectivity options. You can connect via USB or wirelessly through Wi-Fi. For USB‚ simply plug the cable into both the printer and your computer – drivers will install automatically.
Wireless setup is straightforward! Ensure your printer and device are on the same network. Use the Canon PRINT app or the printer’s control panel to connect to your Wi-Fi. Once connected‚ you can print and scan from various devices‚ including laptops‚ smartphones‚ and tablets.
USB Connection Setup
Direct Connection: (current as of November 28‚ 2025) Connecting your Canon MG3520 via USB is a reliable method. First‚ ensure the printer is powered on. Then‚ use a standard USB 2.0 cable (not included) to connect the printer to an available USB port on your computer.
Driver Installation: Windows and macOS typically auto-detect the printer and install the necessary drivers. If not‚ download the latest drivers from the Canon website. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation. A successful connection will allow for immediate printing and scanning capabilities;
Wireless (Wi-Fi) Setup
Connecting to Your Network: (current as of November 28‚ 2025) To connect your Canon MG3520 to Wi-Fi‚ access the printer’s settings menu using the LCD screen. Navigate to the Wireless LAN setup option. Select your network name (SSID) from the available list and enter your Wi-Fi password accurately.
WPS Option: Alternatively‚ utilize WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) if your router supports it. Press the WPS button on your router‚ then press and hold the Wi-Fi button on the printer until the indicator light blinks. A successful connection will display a stable Wi-Fi indicator on the printer.
Canon PRINT App Installation & Configuration
Download & Installation: (current as of November 28‚ 2025) Begin by downloading the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android). Once installed‚ launch the app and ensure your MG3520 is powered on and connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your mobile device.
Adding the Printer: The app will automatically detect your printer. If not‚ select “Add Printer” and follow the on-screen instructions. You may need to press the printer’s Wi-Fi button during the detection process. Once added‚ you can print photos‚ documents‚ and scan directly from your smartphone or tablet.
Basic Printing Operations
Initiating a Print: (current as of November 28‚ 2025) To begin printing‚ ensure your Canon MG3520 is powered on and connected to your computer or mobile device. Open the document or image you wish to print. Select “Print” from the file menu‚ or use the appropriate shortcut (Ctrl+P or Cmd+P).
Print Settings: In the print dialog box‚ choose your MG3520 as the printer. Adjust settings like paper size‚ print quality‚ and color mode. Preview your document before printing to confirm the layout. Click “Print” to start the printing process.
Printing from a Computer (Windows/Mac)
Windows: (current as of November 28‚ 2025) After connecting your MG3520‚ Windows should automatically install the necessary drivers. Open your document‚ select “File” then “Print.” Choose the Canon MG3520 from the printer list. Customize print settings like paper type and quality. Click “Print” to begin.
Mac: Open your document and select “File” then “Print.” Your MG3520 should appear in the printer list. Adjust settings such as pages per sheet‚ orientation‚ and color options. Utilize the “Preview” function to verify your print job before initiating the print process.
Printing from Mobile Devices
Utilizing the Canon PRINT App: (current as of November 28‚ 2025) Ensure your MG3520 is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your smartphone or tablet. Open the Canon PRINT app and select your printer. You can print photos‚ documents (like Word or PDF files)‚ and web pages directly from your device.
AirPrint (iOS): For Apple devices‚ AirPrint allows wireless printing without needing additional apps. Simply open the document and tap the “Share” icon‚ then select “Print.” Choose your MG3520 and adjust settings as needed.
Scanning and Copying Functions
Scanning with Ease: (current as of November 28‚ 2025) The Canon MG3520 offers versatile scanning capabilities. Place your document on the scanner glass‚ then use the Canon IJ Scan Utility software on your computer‚ or the Canon PRINT app on your mobile device‚ to initiate a scan. Select your desired resolution and file format (JPEG‚ PDF‚ etc.);
Simple Copying: For quick copies‚ use the printer’s control panel. Press the “Copy” button‚ adjust the number of copies and paper size if needed‚ and press “Start.” The MG3520 will automatically scan and print the duplicate.
Using the Scanner Function
Initiating a Scan: (current as of November 28‚ 2025) Begin by placing your document face down on the scanner glass‚ aligning it with the indicated corner. Open the Canon IJ Scan Utility on your computer‚ or the Canon PRINT app on your smartphone.
Scan Settings: Select “Scan” and configure your preferences. Choose document type‚ resolution (DPI – higher for detail)‚ color mode (color‚ grayscale‚ black & white)‚ and file format (PDF‚ JPEG‚ etc.). Preview the scan before finalizing. Click “Scan” to save your digitized document to your desired location.
Making Copies
Initiating a Copy: (current as of November 28‚ 2025) Place the original document face down on the scanner glass‚ aligning it with the arrow markings. On the Canon MG3520’s control panel‚ press the “Copy” button.
Copy Settings: Use the buttons to adjust the number of copies desired‚ and select options like “Darker” or “Lighter” to modify the copy’s intensity. You can also choose to enlarge or reduce the copy size. Press the “Start” button (black triangle) to begin the copying process. The copies will automatically print once the scan is complete.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Addressing Problems: (current as of November 28‚ 2025) If your Canon MG3520 encounters issues‚ first check for simple fixes. For paper jams‚ carefully remove the paper tray and clear any obstructions‚ following the printer’s display prompts.
Ink & Connectivity: Ink cartridge errors often resolve with a printer restart or cartridge reseating. Connectivity problems can be solved by re-establishing the Wi-Fi connection through the printer’s settings menu or reinstalling the Canon PRINT app. Consult the printer’s display for specific error codes and solutions.
Paper Jams
Resolving Paper Jams: (current as of November 28‚ 2025) Paper jams are a common issue. First‚ power off the MG3520 and open the paper tray. Gently remove any visible jammed paper‚ avoiding tearing. Check the rear access panel for additional obstructions.
Careful Removal: Ensure all paper fragments are removed to prevent future jams. If paper tears during removal‚ carefully extract the remaining pieces. Reload the paper correctly‚ ensuring it’s not overfilled. Restart the printer and test with a print job. Refer to the printer’s display for specific jam location guidance.
Ink Cartridge Problems
Addressing Ink Issues: (current as of November 28‚ 2025) If the Canon MG3520 displays ink errors‚ first‚ ensure cartridges are correctly installed. Open the printer cover and reseat each cartridge‚ confirming a click. Check ink levels via the printer’s display or Canon PRINT app.
Troubleshooting Steps: If cartridges are new but unrecognized‚ clean the cartridge contacts with a lint-free cloth. Avoid using expired or non-Canon ink‚ as this can cause damage. If problems persist‚ try a print head cleaning cycle. Replace faulty cartridges promptly to maintain print quality.
Connectivity Issues
Resolving Connection Problems: (current as of November 28‚ 2025) If your Canon MG3520 won’t connect‚ first‚ verify the Wi-Fi network is active and the printer is within range. Restart both your printer and router. For USB connections‚ ensure the cable is securely plugged into both devices.
Troubleshooting Steps: Confirm the printer is selected as the default printer on your computer. Re-run the wireless setup wizard through the printer’s menu or Canon PRINT app. Check firewall settings‚ ensuring they aren’t blocking printer communication. Update printer drivers for optimal performance.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Preserving Printer Quality: (current as of November 28‚ 2025) Regular maintenance ensures optimal Canon MG3520 performance. Periodically‚ clean the exterior with a soft‚ damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals. Internal cleaning is crucial; utilize the printer’s built-in cleaning functions for print head maintenance.
Cleaning Schedule: Run the print head cleaning cycle monthly‚ or more frequently with heavy use. A deep cleaning cycle may be necessary for stubborn clogs. Always use genuine Canon ink to prevent damage. Refer to the manual for detailed cleaning instructions and safety precautions.
Cleaning the Print Head
Restoring Print Quality: (current as of November 28‚ 2025) A clogged print head causes streaks or faded prints. The Canon MG3520 offers a built-in print head cleaning function. Access this through the printer’s menu on the LCD screen or via the Canon PRINT app.
Cleaning Process: Select “Maintenance‚” then “Print Head Cleaning.” The printer will consume a small amount of ink during this process. Run the cleaning cycle 2-3 times if needed‚ allowing time between cycles. Avoid continuous cleaning‚ as it wastes ink. If issues persist‚ consult the full instruction manual.
Printer Cleaning Schedule
Maintaining Optimal Performance: (current as of November 28‚ 2025) Regular cleaning extends the life of your Canon MG3520 and ensures consistent print quality. A basic external cleaning – wiping down the exterior with a soft‚ damp cloth – should be done weekly.
Print Head Maintenance: Run the print head cleaning function (accessed through the printer’s menu or Canon PRINT app) every 2-4 weeks with moderate use. For infrequent users‚ clean the print head monthly. Important: Always power off the printer before any internal cleaning. Refer to the full manual for detailed instructions.
