Introduction
The Brother DCP-L2640DW is a versatile monochrome laser printer designed for efficiency in home and small office environments. This compact 3-in-1 device combines printing, copying, and scanning functionalities, offering high-quality black and white output. It features fast print speeds, automatic duplex printing, and flexible connectivity options including dual-band wireless, Ethernet, and USB 2.0. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your printer to ensure optimal performance.
What's in the Box
Upon unboxing your Brother DCP-L2640DW, please verify that all the following components are included:
- Brother DCP-L2640DW Multi-Function Laser Printer
- Black Toner Cartridge (approx. 700 pages yield)
- Drum Unit
- AC Power Cord
- Quick Setup Guide
- Product Safety Guide
- Reference Guide
- Warranty Card

Figure 1: Included components with the Brother DCP-L2640DW printer.
Setup
Initial Setup
- Unpack the printer and remove all protective tapes and packing materials.
- Install the toner cartridge and drum unit according to the Quick Setup Guide.
- Load paper into the paper tray. The tray supports up to 250 sheets of 20-lb paper.
- Connect the AC power cord to the printer and then to a power outlet.
- Turn on the printer using the power button.
Wireless Connectivity
The DCP-L2640DW offers flexible connectivity options, including dual-band wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Ethernet, and USB 2.0. For wireless setup, it is often easiest to configure directly from the printer's control panel:
- On the printer's LCD display, navigate to the 'Network' or 'Wi-Fi' settings.
- Select 'Setup Wizard' or 'WPS' (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) if your router supports it.
- If using the Setup Wizard, the printer will scan for available networks. Select your network from the list.
- Enter your network password (SSID) using the printer's control panel.
- Confirm the settings. The Wi-Fi indicator light should turn solid green once connected.
Alternatively, you can connect via Ethernet by plugging a network cable into the printer's Ethernet port and your router, or directly via USB to a single computer.

Figure 2: Front view of the Brother DCP-L2640DW printer, showing the paper tray.
Operating Instructions
Printing
The DCP-L2640DW prints at speeds up to 36 pages per minute (ppm) with a maximum black and white print resolution of 1200 x 1200 Dots Per Inch. It supports automatic duplex printing to save paper.
- From a Computer: Ensure the printer drivers are installed. Select 'Print' from your application, choose the Brother DCP-L2640DW, and adjust settings as needed (e.g., duplex printing, paper type).
- From Mobile Devices: Use the Brother Mobile Connect App (available for iOS and Android) to print, scan, and manage your printer from almost anywhere.
Scanning
The printer features a flatbed scanner and a 50-page auto document feeder (ADF) for efficient multi-page scanning. Scan speeds are up to 23.6 ipm (black) and 7.9 ipm (color).
- Using the ADF: Place documents face up in the auto document feeder.
- Using the Flatbed: Lift the scanner lid and place a single document face down on the scanner glass.
- Initiate scanning from your computer's scanning software or directly from the printer's control panel (Scan to PC, Scan to Email, etc.).
Copying
The DCP-L2640DW offers standalone copying functionality, allowing you to make copies without a computer.
- Place the document on the flatbed or in the ADF.
- Use the control panel to select 'Copy'.
- Adjust settings such as number of copies, 2-sided copying, or 2-in-1 ID copy.
- Press 'Start' to begin copying.

Figure 3: Key features of the Brother DCP-L2640DW at a glance.

Figure 4: Brother Mobile Connect App for remote printing and management.
Maintenance
Toner and Drum Unit Replacement
The Brother DCP-L2640DW uses Brother Genuine TN830 (Standard), TN830XL (High Yield) toner cartridges, and DR830 drum units. Replace these components when prompted by the printer's display or when print quality degrades.
- Always use genuine Brother supplies for optimal performance and to maintain warranty.
- Refer to the printer's manual or the display instructions for detailed replacement steps.
Toner Save Mode
To extend the life of your toner cartridge, enable the Toner Save Mode through the printer's settings. This reduces toner consumption for everyday printing while maintaining acceptable print quality.

Figure 5: Brother Genuine Toner for optimal printer performance.
Troubleshooting
This section covers common issues you might encounter with your Brother DCP-L2640DW printer.
Connectivity Issues
- Printer Offline: Ensure the printer is powered on and connected to the network (Wi-Fi or Ethernet). Check network cables or Wi-Fi signal strength. Restarting both the printer and your router can often resolve temporary network glitches.
- Cannot Print from Mobile Device: Verify that your mobile device is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as the printer. Ensure the Brother Mobile Connect App is updated.
Print Quality Problems
- Faded Prints/Streaks: The toner cartridge may be low or the drum unit may need cleaning or replacement. Gently shake the toner cartridge to redistribute toner.
- Paper Jams: Follow the instructions on the printer's display to clear any jammed paper. Ensure paper is loaded correctly and not overfilled.
For more detailed troubleshooting, consult the comprehensive Reference Guide included with your printer or visit the Brother support website.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | DCPL2640DW |
| Printer Output | Monochrome |
| Printing Technology | Laser |
| Max Print Speed (Monochrome) | 36 ppm |
| Max Print Resolution | 1200 x 1200 DPI |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic |
| Scanner Type | Flatbed, Sheetfed |
| Max Scan Speed (Black/Color) | 23.6/7.9 ipm |
| Max Copy Speed (Black & White) | 36 ppm |
| Max Input Sheet Capacity | 250 sheets |
| Connectivity Technology | Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet |
| Product Dimensions | 15.7"D x 16.1"W x 12.5"H |
| Item Weight | 25 pounds |
| Compatible Cartridges | TN830, TN830XL |
| Compatible Drum Unit | DR830 |
Warranty and Support
The Brother DCP-L2640DW comes with a 1-year limited warranty. For technical assistance, Brother provides free online, call, or live chat support for the life of your printer. Please refer to the Warranty Card included in the box for full terms and conditions.
Environmental Features
The Brother DCP-L2640DW is designed with environmental considerations in mind:
- ENERGY STAR® Compliant: Meets strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
- EPEAT® Silver Rated: Recognized for its environmental attributes across its lifecycle.
- Toner Save Mode: Reduces toner consumption.
- Automatic Duplex Printing: Helps reduce paper waste.