FAQs & Troubleshooting

Close

Model discontinued. This page is no longer updated.

MFC-3220C

FAQs & Troubleshooting

FAQs & Troubleshooting

MFC-3220C

Not your product?

Date: 03/08/2009 ID: faq00000206_005

Why doesn't the machine answer when receiving a call?

If you are having problems receiving calls or faxes, follow the instructions below:

  1. Verify that the date and time are displayed on the LCD.

    • If the LCD displays an error message, refer to "FAQs & Troubleshooting" for information on the error message you are receiving.
    • If the LCD is blank, press and hold the ON/OFF key located on the control panel until the date and time appear on the display. If the display remains blank, verify that the power cord is connected. If the power cord is connected to a surge protector or power switch, remove the cord from the device and connect it directly to the outlet. If the display is still blank, try a different electrical outlet. If the display still remains blank, your machine may require service.

  2. Check for splitters, commshare devices, voicemail, custom phone features, etc. Remove any of these devices from the phone line. The machine is to be plugged directly into the wall socket.

  3. Verify that the answer mode is set correctly on the FAX/MFC.
    This is determined according to other devices/services on the same line as the FAX/MFC.

    • FAX ONLY
      In this setting, the FAX/MFC automatically answers every call as a fax call. You cannot receive an incoming voice call, but you can make an outgoing voice call.™
    • FAX/TEL
      In this setting, the FAX/MFC automatically answers every call upon completion of the ring delay (unless you answer first). Ring delay is the number of times the unit and all extension phones will ring before the unit answers the call. If the call is a fax, it prints the fax. If the call is voice, it signals you with a double ring that is different from the phone company ring.
    • EXTERNAL TAD
      This setting is the only one that can be used with an external answering machine. Your telephone answering device is connected to your FAX/MFC and answers every call (unless you answer first). Once the TAD answers, the FAX/MFC is in the background silently listening for fax tones. If it detects fax tones, it will go into the receive mode. If it does not hear fax tones, it remains silent and allows the caller to leave a voice message on the answering device.
    • MANUAL
      In this setting, the FAX/MFC will not answer incoming calls automatically (unless using Distinctive Ringing feature).

    If in the FAX/TEL mode the FAX/MFC will answer after the F/T Ring Time. In the TAD mode the TAD will answer after completing the number of rings set on the TAD. If you answer a fax call on an external telephone, you can make your FAX/MFC take over by entering the FAX Receive Code. When you enter the Fax Receive Code (*51), the FAX/MFC starts to receive the fax.

  4. After following the instructions, if you continue to experience problems with receiving faxes, please contact Brother Customer Service from "Contact Us".

Related FAQs

Related Models

MFC-3220C, MFC-3320CN, MFC-3420C, MFC-3820CN

If you need further assistance, please contact Brother customer service:

Content Feedback

To help us improve our support, please provide your feedback below.
Step 1: How does the information on this page help you?
Step 2: Are there any comments you would like to add?

Please note this form is used for feedback only.