
Brother MFC-490CW
Brand | Brother 2006 |
Model | MFC490CW |
Released Year | 2006 |
Type | Printers |
Series | Mfc |
Status | Discontinued |
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Overview
The Brother MFC-490CW is a multifunction color printer designed to combine printing, scanning, copying, and faxing functionalities into a single compact unit. It utilizes inkjet print technology capable of producing color and monochrome prints with a typical print resolution of up to 6000 x 1200 dpi thanks to its 4-color ink system. The device supports multiple connectivity options including USB and built-in wireless 802.11b/g for flexible operation within office networks.
The scanner is a CIS (Contact Image Sensor) flatbed type, offering up to 1200 x 2400 dpi optical resolution for detailed scanning. Copy features include standard resizing and N-in-1 copy capabilities. Fax functions support standard ITU Group 3 compatibility with a speed of approximately 3 seconds per page.
Paper handling includes a 150-sheet input tray and a 20-sheet multipurpose tray, accommodating standard letter and legal-sized papers. The printer supports various media types such as plain, photo, and envelopes. The device operates using Brother’s proprietary ink cartridges, ensuring consistent print quality optimized for office documents and photos.
Specifications
MPN | MFC490CW |
UPC | 0012502620495 |
Model | MFC-490CW |
Technology | Inkjet |
Connectivity | USB 2.0, Wireless 802.11b/g |
Output Type | Color |
Type | All-In-One Printer |
Black Print Speed | 33 ppm |
Product Line | Brother MFC |
Weight | 7.5 kg |
Height | 7.09in |
Width | 15.35in |
Platform | M·A·C, PC Products |
Zoom Range, Reduction | 25%, |
Extend Printer Technology | Inkjet |
Installed RAM | 40MB |
Data Link Protocol | IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g, Ethernet, Fast Ethernet |
Color | Black |
Direct Printing Capabilities | Print Photos Without a PC |
Color Print Speed Up to | 27pPM |
Black Copying Speed Up to | 22pPM |
Scanner Shape | Sheetfed Scanner |
Computer Operating System | Microsoft Windows 2000, Microsoft Windows XP, Microsoft Windows Vista, Apple Mac OS X 10.2.4, Microsoft Windows XP Pro X64, Microsoft Windows 2000 Pro |
Memory Card Compatibility | MultiMediaCard, Memory Stick, Memory Stick PRO, Microdrive, MiniSD, SDHC, xD Picture Card, CompactFlash Type I, Secure Digital (Sd) |
Color Copy Speed Up to | 20pPM |
Modem Type | Fax / Modem |
Fax Features Supported | Distinctive Ring, PC Fax, Automatic Redial, Auto Fax Reduction |
Form Factor | Desktop |
Networking Type | Wireless Network Adapter |
Media Type | Photos |
Scanner Resolution | 1200 x 2400 dpi (optical) |
Printers Special Features | Borderless Printing |
Panel | Color LCD |
Max Resolution (Bw) | 6000x1200DPI |
Monthly Duty Volume | 2500 Pages |
Max Resolution (Color) | 6000x1200DPI |
Max Media Size | Legal (216x356 Mm, 8.5x14in) |
Media Capacity | 120 Sheets |
Print Technology | Inkjet |
Print Resolution | Up to 6000 x 1200 dpi (color) |
Print Speed | Up to 16 ppm (black), 10 ppm (color) |
Scanner Type | Flatbed CIS |
Fax Compatibility | ITU Group 3 |
Fax Transmission Speed | Approx. 3 seconds per page |
Paper Input Capacity | 150 sheets (main tray), 20 sheets (multipurpose tray) |
Supported Paper Sizes | Letter, Legal, Envelopes, Photo |
Copy Features | Resize, N-in-1 copy, Multiple copies |
Display | 2.5-inch color LCD |
Memory | 4 MB RAM |
Dimensions | 435 x 398 x 199 mm |
Ink Cartridges | Separate CMYK cartridges |
Operating Systems Supported | Windows XP/Vista/7, Mac OS X (limited support) |
Images
Key Advantages
The Brother MFC-490CW offers a true all-in-one solution, reducing the need for multiple devices in the office. Its inclusion of wireless networking connectivity allows for flexible placement and easy sharing among multiple users. The high print resolution produces crisp documents and vibrant color prints suitable for professional presentations.
Ease of use is enhanced through a front LCD display and intuitive control panel, enabling quick selection of functions and settings. The flatbed scanner supports a wide range of scan and copy options suitable for diverse office requirements. Compact size and relatively low noise operation make it convenient for small to medium-sized office environments.
Limitations
The printing speed is moderate, with averages around 16 pages per minute for black and 10 pages per minute for color prints, which might be insufficient for high-volume office needs. Ink consumption can be relatively high, increasing running costs over time compared to laser-based alternatives. The fax memory capacity is limited, requiring regular monitoring to avoid data loss.
The scanner resolution, while adequate for most documents, may not meet high-end photo or graphic design requirements. The lack of automatic document feeder (ADF) reduces efficiency for batch scanning or copying tasks. Compatibility with modern operating systems and drivers may also be restricted as official support has been discontinued by Brother.
FAQ
What type of printing technology does the Brother MFC-490CW use?
It uses inkjet printing technology with four separate ink cartridges for cyan, magenta, yellow, and black.
Does the MFC-490CW support wireless printing?
Yes, it includes built-in wireless 802.11b/g support for printing over Wi-Fi networks.
What are the scanning capabilities of this device?
It features a flatbed CIS scanner with an optical resolution up to 1200 x 2400 dpi for high-quality document and image scans.
Is the Brother MFC-490CW suitable for high volume office printing?
No, with moderate print speeds and limited paper capacity, it is more suited for low to medium volume printing tasks.
What paper sizes can the printer handle?
It supports standard sizes such as letter (8.5 x 11 inches), legal (8.5 x 14 inches), envelopes, and photo sizes.
Does this model have an automatic document feeder (ADF)?
No, the MFC-490CW does not include an automatic document feeder.
Is the Brother MFC-490CW still supported with updated drivers?
No, Brother has discontinued official support and driver updates for this model.
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