Canon produces a wide array of electronic devices, most noted for high-quality cameras and photo printers. As with all printers or computer hardware, these devices may fail to work properly from time to time. Learning the basics of troubleshooting your Canon printer will help you in identifying and resolving the problem.

Installation Problems

Canon printers installation software is user-friendly, and the set-up or installation wizard normally walks you through the entire process. If your Canon printer is not installing appropriately then there are certain steps you'll need to follow to configure the problem. Ensure that the system requirements meet the standards indicated for installation on your computer. The Canon printer you have may not be able to be installed on your computer if the operating system isn't compatible with the printer. Identify your computers operating system specifications and note the system requirements listed on the box or instruction manual for the printer. Older operating systems may not be compatible with newer printers. You may need to upgrade your operating system to suit. Ensure that you've made all of the appropriate connections from the printer to the computer. Check to be certain that the USB cable is secure in its respective port on both the printer and the computer. Check the power cord and ensure that it has a solid connection. Repeat the set-up process as indicated on your set-up or installation manual. Sometimes you can easily skip a step and the printer wont install properly. If all else fails, contact Canon's technical support team to help configure and resolve the installation error.

Failure to Print

Printer failure can happen at any time. Normally this is due to a low or loose ink cartridge, poor USB connection or a failed print head. First check the USB cable connections. Many times this cable becomes loose from shifting or pulling, and can retreat from its connection within the port. Ensure that the connection is solid, then retry the print. Check the ink cartridges inside the printer. Normally Canon printers ink cartridges blink red when low or out of ink. If one cartridge is out, then the printer will not print at all. Check the cartridge connection as well. You must ensure that the cartridge has been completely depressed and secure on its base. A loose cartridge will fail to connect properly and cause the printer not to print. Try to remove and replace the cartridges securely to detect any bad connections, then retry the print. Your computer or printer--depending on the Canon model--will indicate a specific printer error when the printer doesn't print. The error may be numbered or indicated by a number of flashing lights on the printer. This error number will direct you to the appropriate action to take listed in your printer's manual. Many times this error is a failed print head. You can try to remove and replace the head but normally this problem can only be resolved by purchasing a new print head.

Source:

Canon: Troubleshooting

Printcountry: Canon Support

USA Canon: Image Class D300 Printer Guide