Independent printer help. Not affiliated with any printer manufacturer.

These independent tips are for people who use Sharp printers and multifunction copiers, most of them in offices. This site isn't written by or connected to Sharp. Many Sharp devices are leased or bought through an authorized dealer that also supplies toner and handles repairs, so your dealer or service agreement is often the first place to go. For official drivers and manuals, use Sharp's official site for your country, which you can reach from Sharp's global site.

Common problems with Sharp printers

Knowing who services your device

Most Sharp multifunction printers (MFPs) are supported by the dealer that supplied them under a service agreement. A sticker on the device often shows the dealer's details and a machine or equipment number. Check the agreement before buying toner or parts yourself, because supplies and repairs are often included.

Scan to folder stops working

Scanning to a shared network folder usually breaks after the Windows account password changes, the PC's name or IP address changes, or the folder's sharing settings change. Update the saved path, user name and password in the device's address book entry, and confirm the folder is still shared with the account the device uses.

Read the full fix: Scan to network folder fails or can't connect

Jobs waiting for a code or login

Office MFPs are often set up so jobs only print after you enter a user number or sign in at the device, or they hold jobs until you release them. If jobs disappear or wait, check the authentication or job handling settings in the driver's printing preferences, and ask your administrator for the details you should enter.

Read the full fix: Print jobs stuck in the queue

Choosing the right driver

Sharp publishes drivers for each model, often in both PCL and PostScript versions. If finishing options such as stapling or extra trays are missing, install the driver for your exact model from Sharp's official site, then turn on the installed options in the printer's properties on your computer.

Read the full fix: Printer driver won't install

Toner and waste toner messages

Sharp devices warn when toner is running low and when the waste toner container needs replacing. Replace the item the message names, using the part listed for your model, or ask your dealer if supplies are covered by your agreement.

Read the full fix: Toner low message after replacing the cartridge

Device offline after a network change

If a Sharp device shows offline after a router or network change, its IP address has probably changed. Print a settings or network list from the control panel to see the current address, then update the printer port or re-add the device on each computer.

Read the full fix: Printer stopped working after its IP address changed

Fault codes on the display

When a Sharp MFP reports a fault it can't recover from, it shows a code and asks you to contact your service provider. Turn the device off and on once, following the shutdown steps in the manual. If the code returns, note it exactly and contact the dealer named in your service agreement, or check Sharp's official site for your country.

Tips for Sharp owners

  • Type the device's IP address into a browser to open its built-in web pages, where you can check status, supplies and network settings; some settings need the administrator password.
  • Download drivers from the Sharp site for your own country, because models and software can differ by region.
  • Note the full model name and the machine or serial number before contacting your dealer; it makes service requests quicker.
  • Follow the shutdown steps in the manual rather than switching off at the wall, so the device can finish saving jobs and settings.

Common questions

Is this site affiliated with Sharp?

No. This is an independent help site with no connection to Sharp. For official drivers, manuals and support, use Sharp's official site for your country.

Who should I contact to repair my Sharp copier?

If the device is leased or under a service agreement, contact the dealer named in that agreement. Otherwise, use Sharp's official site for your country to find authorized service.

Where do I find a driver for my Sharp device?

On Sharp's official site for your country. Search for your exact model, choose your operating system, and pick the PCL or PostScript driver your organization uses.

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