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FAX-4100/FAX-4100e

FAQs & Troubleshooting

FAQs & Troubleshooting

The clock on my Brother machine gains time. What can I do?

Brother is aware of this issue. You will need to run a program to update the firmware of the Brother machine.

To prepare for the update, read the following:

  • Updating the firmware will delete all information programmed in the Brother machine (i.e. station ID, speed dial keys, etc.) and all faxes stored in memory. We advise you to print any faxes stored in memory before attempting this process. For instructions on how to print faxes in memory, refer to the Owner's Manual. The Owner's Manual can be accessed on the website for this model under Download/Documentation/User's Guide.

  • In order to utilize the program, you will need to connect your Brother machine to a computer using a Parallel cable connection. The update will not work with a USB cable. If you do not have a computer or a parallel cable connection, contact Brother Customer Service for further assistance.

<In USA>
Please click here for a Brother Authorized Service Center near you or click here for the appropriate Customer Service Center.

<In Canada>
For Brother Customer Service telephone numbers for assistance in Canada, please click here.

  • DO NOT turn off your Brother machine or computer until the firmware update is completed. If you turn off your machine or computer before the update is completed, you will need to rerun the program.

  • This process may take up to 15 minutes depending on your computer environment. DO NOT disconnect the cable or power cord until the upgrade program is complete.

To start the firmware upgrade, follow these steps:

  1. Click here to download the file. A "Save" window will appear.
  2. Click DESKTOP to save the executable file on your desktop. Click SAVE.
  3. Go to the desktop to locate the icon FAX4100_ROM_Upgrade and double click the icon. "This will install..." will appear.
  4. Click YES. The WELCOME screen will appear.
  5. Click NEXT. *****IMPORTANT INFORMATION**** will appear.

This window contains instructions for preparing your Brother unit before running the program. Be sure to read the instructions in their entirety before continuing.


  1. DO NOT click Next until the following is complete:
    1. Unplug the power cord from the back of the unit (not the outlet) to power off the machine.
    2. Connect the Parallel interface cable from the Brother machine directly to the computer.
    3. While pressing the "5" key on the dial pad, plug the power cord into the back of the machine to power it back up. Continue holding the "5" key until the machine emits a series of ring tones and the LCD displays boxes and spaces.

  2. Now, click NEXT on the Important Information window. The upgrade program will begin processing.
  3. Eventually, "Setup has finished..." will appear. Click FINISH.

The firmware has been upgraded and the clock will no longer gain time. If you do not normally have your Brother machine connected to a computer, you can disconnect the parallel cable. If you do not want the saved file on your desktop, you can delete it. Last, you can now reprogram your Brother machine.

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