The Brother MFC-L8850CDW is a high-performance color laser multifunction printer designed to cater to the demanding needs of small to medium-sized offices. It combines printing, copying, scanning, and faxing capabilities in a single unit, offering versatile functionality. However, the true potential of the MFC-L8850CDW is unlocked through its software suite, which enhances its efficiency, usability, and connectivity. In this review, we will delve into the various aspects of the Brother MFC-L8850CDW software, exploring its features, performance, ease of use, and overall impact on the user experience.
Table of Contents
1. Software Installation and Setup
Setting up the Brother MFC-L8850CDW software is a straightforward process. The printer comes with a comprehensive installation CD, but users can also download the latest drivers and software from Brother’s official website. The installation wizard guides users through each step, ensuring that even those with minimal technical expertise can successfully install the necessary components.
The installation package includes drivers for printing and scanning, as well as software for managing and configuring the printer. The Brother ControlCenter4, a central hub for managing all the multifunction features, is also part of the package. The installation process is quick, typically taking less than 15 minutes, and ensures that the printer is ready for immediate use.
2. Brother ControlCenter4
The Brother ControlCenter4 is an intuitive and user-friendly software that serves as the central interface for the MFC-L8850CDW. It provides easy access to all the printer’s functions, including printing, scanning, copying, and faxing. The software is divided into four main tabs: Home, Photo, Scan, and Device Settings.
Home Tab
The Home tab offers quick access to frequently used functions, such as scanning to email, OCR (Optical Character Recognition), and file management. It also displays the printer’s status, including toner levels and any maintenance alerts. This centralized view is particularly useful for users who need to monitor the printer’s status regularly.
Photo Tab
The Photo tab is designed for users who frequently print images. It provides tools for basic photo editing, such as cropping and resizing, and allows users to select print settings optimized for photos. While not as advanced as dedicated photo editing software, these tools are sufficient for basic image adjustments.
Scan Tab
The Scan tab is one of the most powerful features of ControlCenter4. It offers various scanning options, including scanning to email, file, image, and OCR. Users can customize scan settings, such as resolution, color depth, and file format. The software supports batch scanning, making it ideal for digitizing large volumes of documents quickly.
Device Settings Tab
The Device Settings tab provides access to the printer’s configuration options. Users can adjust settings related to print quality, paper handling, and network connectivity. This tab also includes maintenance functions, such as firmware updates and cleaning cycles. The ability to configure the printer directly from the software enhances convenience and control.
3. Print Management Software
The Brother MFC-L8850CDW comes with robust print management software that enables users to optimize their printing tasks. This software includes the Brother BRAdmin Professional, a network management tool designed for managing multiple Brother devices within a network.
BRAdmin Professional
BRAdmin Professional allows IT administrators to monitor and manage Brother printers from a central location. It provides detailed information on each device, including usage statistics, error logs, and toner levels. Administrators can configure device settings remotely, deploy firmware updates, and set up email notifications for maintenance alerts. This software is particularly valuable for businesses with multiple Brother printers, as it simplifies fleet management and reduces downtime.
Print Job Management
The print job management features of the Brother software include secure print, which requires users to enter a PIN at the printer to release their documents. This enhances document security, preventing unauthorized access to sensitive information. Additionally, the software supports print quotas, allowing administrators to set limits on the number of pages each user can print. This helps control printing costs and encourages responsible usage.
4. Scanning Software
The scanning capabilities of the Brother MFC-L8850CDW are significantly enhanced by the accompanying software. In addition to the ControlCenter4, Brother offers specialized scanning software like Brother iPrint&Scan and Nuance PaperPort.
Brother iPrint&Scan
Brother iPrint&Scan is a versatile mobile app that allows users to print and scan directly from their smartphones or tablets. The app is compatible with both iOS and Android devices and can connect to the MFC-L8850CDW over Wi-Fi. It supports a wide range of file formats and offers various customization options, such as scan resolution and file compression. The ability to print and scan on the go is a significant advantage for users who need to work remotely or travel frequently.
Nuance PaperPort
Nuance PaperPort is a powerful document management software that enhances the scanning experience. It provides advanced OCR capabilities, allowing users to convert scanned documents into editable text. PaperPort also offers robust organization tools, such as folders, tags, and search functions, making it easy to manage large volumes of documents. The integration with cloud services like Google Drive and Dropbox further enhances document accessibility and collaboration.
5. Fax Software
The faxing capabilities of the Brother MFC-L8850CDW are complemented by the Brother PC-FAX software. This software allows users to send and receive faxes directly from their computers, eliminating the need for a dedicated fax machine.
PC-FAX Sending
The PC-FAX sending feature allows users to fax documents directly from their computer applications, such as Microsoft Word or Adobe Acrobat. Users can select the Brother MFC-L8850CDW as their fax device and enter the recipient’s fax number. This eliminates the need to print documents before faxing, saving time and paper.
PC-FAX Receiving
The PC-FAX receiving feature enables users to receive faxes directly to their computers. Incoming faxes are saved as PDF files, which can be viewed, printed, or forwarded via email. This feature is particularly useful for users who receive a high volume of faxes, as it streamlines the fax management process and reduces paper clutter.
6. Mobile Printing Solutions
The Brother MFC-L8850CDW supports a variety of mobile printing solutions, making it easy for users to print from their smartphones and tablets. These solutions include Brother iPrint&Scan, Apple AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, and Wi-Fi Direct.
Apple AirPrint
Apple AirPrint allows users to print directly from their iOS devices without the need for additional software or drivers. The MFC-L8850CDW is fully compatible with AirPrint, making it easy for users to print emails, photos, and documents from their iPhones and iPads. The seamless integration with iOS devices enhances convenience and productivity for Apple users.
Google Cloud Print
Google Cloud Print enables users to print from any device connected to the internet, including smartphones, tablets, and Chromebooks. The MFC-L8850CDW can be registered with Google Cloud Print, allowing users to print from their Google accounts without installing any additional software. This feature is particularly useful for users who need to print documents while away from the office.
Wi-Fi Direct
Wi-Fi Direct allows users to connect their devices directly to the MFC-L8850CDW without the need for a wireless router. This feature is useful in environments where a traditional Wi-Fi network is unavailable or unreliable. Users can print and scan directly from their devices, ensuring uninterrupted workflow.
7. Cloud Services Integration
The Brother MFC-L8850CDW software includes integration with various cloud services, enhancing document accessibility and collaboration. Users can scan documents directly to cloud storage services or print documents stored in the cloud. Supported cloud services include Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, and Box.
Scanning to Cloud
The ability to scan documents directly to cloud storage services is a significant advantage for users who need to access their documents from multiple locations. The Brother ControlCenter4 software allows users to configure scan-to-cloud profiles, specifying the destination folder and file format. Once configured, users can initiate cloud scans with a single touch, streamlining the document digitization process.
Printing from Cloud
Printing documents stored in the cloud is equally convenient. The Brother iPrint&Scan app and the ControlCenter4 software both support cloud printing, allowing users to browse their cloud storage accounts and select documents for printing. This feature is particularly useful for users who collaborate on documents with remote teams, as it ensures that the latest versions of documents are always available for printing.
8. Performance and Reliability
The performance and reliability of the Brother MFC-L8850CDW software are critical factors in its overall evaluation. Users need software that not only enhances the printer’s functionality but also operates smoothly and reliably.
Speed and Efficiency
The Brother MFC-L8850CDW software is designed to optimize the printer’s performance, ensuring fast and efficient operation. Print and scan jobs are processed quickly, with minimal lag or delay. The software’s efficient design reduces the time required for tasks like document scanning and printing, enhancing overall productivity.
Stability and Reliability
The software for the Brother MFC-L8850CDW is stable and reliable, with minimal instances of crashes or errors. Regular updates from Brother ensure that the software remains compatible with the latest operating systems and addresses any security vulnerabilities. The reliability of the software is crucial for maintaining uninterrupted workflow in busy office environments.
9. User Support and Resources
Brother provides extensive support and resources for users of the MFC-L8850CDW software. This includes online documentation, video tutorials, and a dedicated support team.
Online Documentation
The Brother website offers comprehensive documentation for the MFC-L8850CDW, including user manuals, FAQs, and troubleshooting guides. The documentation is well-organized and easy to navigate, making it simple for users to find the information they need.