The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw is fully equipped to handle automatic double-sided (duplex) scanning, making it efficient to digitize multi-page documents with content on both sides. This model features an Automatic Document Feeder (ADF) that allows you to scan both sides of your document simultaneously in a single pass.
Understanding Automatic Duplex Scanning on M479fdw
Unlike some models that require manual page flipping for two-sided scans, the HP MFP M479fdw's ADF is designed for automatic two-sided scanning and can process both the front and back of a page in a single sheet pass. This significantly speeds up the scanning process, reduces manual effort, and is ideal for archiving, sharing, or creating digital copies of reports, contracts, and other double-sided paperwork.
Methods for Double-Sided Scanning
You can initiate a double-sided scan from your HP MFP M479fdw using its control panel directly or through your computer using HP scanning software or the HP Smart app.
1. Scanning Double-Sided from the Printer Control Panel
This method is convenient for quick scans directly to email, a network folder, or a USB drive without needing to use a computer.
- Load Documents: Place your stack of double-sided documents face up into the Automatic Document Feeder (ADF) tray. Ensure the edges are neatly aligned and the paper guides are adjusted to fit the document width.
- Access Scan Function: On the printer's control panel, touch the Scan icon.
- Select Destination: Choose your desired scan destination, such as "Scan to USB," "Scan to Email," "Scan to Network Folder," or "Scan to Computer."
- Configure Scan Settings:
- Look for an option like "2-sided", "Duplex", or "Sides".
- Select the setting that enables two-sided scanning (e.g., "2-sided (Auto)" or "Both Sides").
- You may also adjust other settings like resolution, file type (PDF, JPEG), and color mode (color, grayscale, black & white).
- Start Scan: Touch Start Scan or the equivalent button to begin the scanning process. The ADF will pull the pages through, scanning both sides automatically.
2. Scanning Double-Sided Using HP Software (HP Scan or HP Smart App)
For more advanced control, editing options, and integration with your computer, use HP's scanning software.
Using HP Scan (Windows) or HP Easy Scan (macOS)
- Load Documents: Place your documents into the ADF tray of your HP MFP M479fdw.
- Launch Software: Open the HP Scan application on your Windows PC or HP Easy Scan on your Mac. You can usually find it in your Start Menu (Windows) or Applications folder (macOS).
- Select Scan Shortcut: Choose a scanning shortcut (e.g., "Save as PDF," "Save as JPEG," "Email as PDF").
- Adjust Settings:
- Click on "Advanced Settings" or "More" to access detailed options.
- Locate the "Source" or "Document Source" dropdown menu and ensure "Automatic Document Feeder" or "ADF" is selected.
- Find the "Sides" or "Duplex" option and select "2-sided" or "Scan Both Sides".
- Configure other desired settings like resolution, file type, and destination folder.
- Initiate Scan: Click "Scan". The documents will feed through the ADF, and both sides will be scanned automatically.
Using the HP Smart App (Windows, macOS, Mobile)
The HP Smart app provides a modern, user-friendly interface for scanning.
- Load Documents: Place your documents into the ADF.
- Open HP Smart: Launch the HP Smart app on your computer or mobile device. (If you don't have it, you can download it from HP Smart App).
- Select Scan: Click the Scan tile on the HP Smart app dashboard.
- Choose Scanner: Ensure your HP MFP M479fdw is selected as the scanner.
- Adjust Scan Settings:
- Under "Input" or "Source", select "Document Feeder".
- Look for the "Duplex (2-sided)" option and enable it.
- Adjust other settings like resolution, color, and file format as needed.
- Preview and Scan: Click "Scan". A preview might appear; once satisfied, click "Save" or "Print" as per your requirement.
Tips for Successful Double-Sided Scanning
- Document Condition: Ensure documents are free of staples, clips, tears, or sticky notes, as these can cause jams in the ADF.
- Paper Alignment: Always align your papers neatly in the ADF tray and adjust the paper guides to prevent skewed scans.
- Paper Type: The ADF works best with standard paper types. Avoid scanning extremely thick, thin, glossy, or curled paper, which might be better suited for the flatbed scanner (though this would be single-sided).
- Orientation: Pay attention to the document orientation when loading. While the M479fdw automatically scans both sides, ensuring consistent orientation (e.g., all top edges facing the same direction) helps maintain proper page order in the digital file.
Summary of Scanning Methods
| Scanning Method | Duplex Support | Ideal For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Automatic Document Feeder (ADF) | Yes (Automatic, single-pass) | Multi-page double-sided documents for efficiency | Recommended for most double-sided scanning tasks |
| Flatbed Scanner | No (Single-sided only) | Single pages, fragile items, books, thick documents | Not suitable for automatic duplex scanning; manual flipping required if scanning both sides of a single item, but this is less efficient. |
By utilizing the Automatic Document Feeder and selecting the appropriate duplex scanning options, you can effectively and efficiently scan double-sided documents on your HP MFP M479fdw.
