Connect USB Cable

Connect the USB cable to carry out communication between the printer and host device via the USB port.

There are some restrictions related to simultaneously connecting multiple devices to a single printer. Make appropriate connections to suit your environment.
Precautions for Using Multi-interface

For information about how to connect USB external devices, refer to Set Up External Devices.


The connection method varies depending on the operating system of the PC, smartphone, or tablet you want to use.
Refer to the information appropriate to the usage environment.

Windows

iOS <MCP21LB, MCP21LBNH model>

Android

Windows

When printing from a Windows PC or tablet, follow the steps below to make a connection.

1. Prepare a USB cable

  • When using a PC, prepare a USB cable (A-B) to connect the printer. When using a tablet, prepare a USB cable that matches the connector shape of the tablet.
  • Printer-side plugUSB-B
    Device-side plugUSB-A or the product based on the standard that matches the device you use
  • PC

  • Tablet

2. Connect the USB cable to the printer

  • Connect the USB cable to the USB-B port of the printer.

Example: MCP21LB

3. Connect the USB cable to the PC or tablet

  • Connect another plug to the PC or tablet.

Note

  • When the cable is connected to the USB-B port, the device cannot be charged from the printer.
  • iOS <MCP21LB, MCP21LBNH>

    When connecting an iPad, iPhone, or iPod touch for printing or power supply (maximum 2.4A), follow the steps below to make a connection.
    This is applicable to iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch that are equipped with the Lightning connector.

    Caution

  • The Lightning cable must be Apple Inc.'s genuine product or an MFi-certified product.
    If you use a Lightning cable that is not certified by MFi or any extension cable to make a connection, data communication or charging may fail.
  • When a Windows or Android device is connected simultaneously to the USB-B port, the iOS device is only supplied power at a maximum of 1.5A instead of carrying out any communication.
  • 1. Prepare a Lightning cable

    • Use a Lightning cable that is available commercially or that came with the smartphone or tablet.
    • Printer-side plugUSB-A
      Device-side plugLightning

    2. Connect the Lightning cable to the printer

    • Connect the Lightning cable to the USB port (2.4A) of the printer.
    • Example: MCP21LB

    3. Connect the Lightning cable to the smartphone or tablet

    • Connect another plug to the smartphone or tablet.

    Android

    When printing from the Android tablet or smartphone, follow the steps below to make a connection.

    Caution

    When performing USB communication with a device equipped with USB micro-B, it is necessary to use a USB adapter.
    Some devices may not support the use of a USB adapter. Be sure to perform full operation checks in advance before using.

    1. Prepare a USB cable and USB conversion adapter

    • Prepare a USB cable and USB conversion adapter that matches the connector shape of the smartphone or tablet you are using.
    • Printer-side plugUSB-B
      Device-side plugProduct based on the standard that matches the device you use
      USB conversion adapterPrepare the appropriate one as needed.

    2. Connect the USB cable to the printer

    • Connect the USB cable to the USB-B port of the printer.
    • Example: MCP21LB

    3. Connect the USB cable to the smartphone or tablet

    • Connect another plug to the smartphone or tablet.

    Note

  • To carry out communication between the Android device and printer, connect the cable to the USB-B port of the printer. When the cable is connected to the USB-A port, only charging is carried out.
  • When the cable is connected to the USB-B port, the device cannot be charged from the printer.