The Ultimate Guide to Your Canon PIXMA TR4720 Setup
Quick Summary:
Fix Canon PIXMA TR4720 setup in 3 steps: 1) Remove all packaging tape → 2) Connect via Canon PRINT app → 3) Download drivers from official site!
Works for Windows/Mac—no CD required.
Troubleshooting? Try a network reset on the printer.
Alright, let’s get real for a second. You’ve just hauled that new Canon PIXMA TR4720 box home, full of that “I’m-going-to-be-so-productive” hope. You slice the tape, peek inside at the shiny new gadget, and then… a cold dread sets in. A tangle of cables you might not need, a cryptic quick-start guide, and the sinking feeling that the next few hours will be spent in a battle of wills with a machine. I get it. I’ve been there—not just as a user, but as the guy people call when that battle is lost.
I remember one client, a brilliant baker starting her own business. She needed to print labels for her first big order. Her brand new TR4720 was blinking at her like a stubborn alien artifact. She was an hour from a breakdown. We got on a video call, and within ten minutes, she was printing beautifully. The relief in her voice? That’s why I do this. It wasn’t magic; it was just knowing which tape to pull and which button to press.

That’s exactly what this guide is. Consider this your personal video call with me, Tobby Stalin. With over a decade of wrestling every printer model known to humankind, I’m here to translate the techno-babble into plain English. We’re going to walk through your Canon PIXMA TR4720 setup together, from the very first piece of tape you peel off to the moment you effortlessly print that first stunning photo from your phone. This isn’t just a set of instructions; it’s a stress-free, confidence-building walkthrough that covers the initial setup, the unboxing and setup quirks, and provides crystal-clear setup instructions. We’ll tackle this setup step by step, and I’ll even show you how to sidestep the common problems that trip most people up. Let’s turn that frustration into a finished print.
What’s in the Box? Your Canon PIXMA TR4720 Checklist
Before we touch a single cable or press the power button, let’s play a quick game of inventory. Trust me, there’s nothing more frustrating than getting halfway through a setup only to realize you’re missing a crucial piece. A proper Canon PIXMA TR4720 unboxing is our first step to a smooth experience. I’ve learned from countless service calls that taking two minutes here saves an hour of headache later. Let’s make sure you have everything Canon sent you and everything you’ll need from your own stash.
Everything You Should Have Received
Open that box up and lay it all out on a clean, flat surface—your kitchen table works perfectly. You’re looking for these specific items:
- The Canon PIXMA TR4720 Printer: This is the main event, obviously. Make sure you remove all the clear plastic film; it’s there to protect the glossy surfaces during shipping.
- Power Cord: This is usually a black cable with a bulky box (the transformer) partway along its length. Don’t confuse it with a standard computer power cable.
- Ink Cartridges: You should have two: a black one (model PK-130) and a tri-color one (model CL-131). They’ll be sealed in their own protective packaging.
- Setup Guide/Quick Start Guide: This is a small, usually colorful pamphlet. It gives you the ultra-basics, and we’ll be using it as a backup to our much more detailed guide here.
- Software CD: You’ll likely see a CD-ROM in the box. Here’s my first insider tip: you can probably recycle this. In our modern world, the drivers on this disc are almost always outdated. We’ll be downloading the latest software directly from Canon’s website for the most reliable Canon PIXMA TR4720 manual setup. It’s faster and avoids compatibility issues with newer operating systems.
What You’ll Need to Provide
Now, here’s what you need to have ready from your own home or office. Having these at hand is the real key to a seamless setup:
- A Device for Setup: This could be a Windows PC (10 or 11), a Mac, or even just your smartphone (iOS or Android). This will be our command center for the software part of the operation.
- Your Wi-Fi Credentials: Know your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password. You’ll need to enter this during the wireless setup process, so have it written down or ready on another device.
- A Free Power Outlet: This seems obvious, but find one that’s easily accessible. You don’t want the printer tucked away in a cramped space where you can’t see the lights or access the buttons on the back.
The Complete Canon PIXMA TR4720 Setup Walkthrough
This is where the rubber meets the road. The complete Canon PIXMA TR4720 setup is a straightforward process if you follow the steps in order. I’ve guided hundreds of people through this, and the key is to not get ahead of yourself. Think of it like a recipe—you gotta add the ingredients in the right sequence for it to turn out right. We’ll walk through this initial setup step by step, so you know exactly how to set up Canon PIXMA TR4720 without any guesswork.

Step 1: Physical Setup and Ink Installation
Alright, let’s get our hands dirty. Or better yet, let’s not get them dirty. First, position the printer on your flat, stable surface. Now, open the front cover. You’ll hear the printhead carriage motor whir as it moves to the center. This is your access point.
Your first mission is to be a detective. Find and remove every single piece of protective tape and all the orange plastic locks. There’s usually bright orange tape securing the carriage in place and some clear tape on various parts of the interior. Peek inside the paper feed tray in the back, too. I once had a client who missed a single, sneaky piece of tape on the side of the carriage, and it caused a horrible grinding noise. Be thorough! This is the most critical part of the physical install.
Now, for the ink cartridge installation. Here’s my pro tip: have a paper towel ready. Unpack the two cartridges (black PK-130, color CL-131). Grip them by their sides, and gently lift the orange plastic tab on the front to break the seal. Crucially, avoid touching the copper contacts on the front or the ink nozzles on the bottom. Your skin oils can interfere with the electrical connection and clog the nozzles.
Match the icons and colors: the black cartridge goes on the right, the color on the left. Slide each one into its slot and push up firmly until you feel and hear a definitive click. Don’t be shy; it needs a good, firm push to seat properly. Close the front cover. The printer will now start its initial priming process, which can take a minute or two. You’ll hear some whirring and chugging—that’s the beautiful sound of it working correctly.
Step 2: Powering On and Basic Preparation
Find that power cord and plug it firmly into the back of the printer, then into your wall outlet. Now, press the power button. You’ll see lights come on and probably some movement.
Here’s what to expect: The power light will likely blink for a little while. This is completely normal! A blinking light during this initial setup just means the printer is initializing, like a computer booting up. It’s thinking hard, running its self-checks, and preparing the ink system we just installed. Let it do its thing. The blinking will stop and become a steady light when it’s ready for the next step. If it keeps blinking for more than 5-10 minutes, then we might have an issue, but 99% of the time, it’s just being patient, and you should be too. This is a classic “watch and wait” moment in our step by step guide.
How to Connect Your Canon TR4720 to Wi-Fi (The Right Way)
This is the moment where most people’s patience runs thin, but it’s also where we can absolutely nail it. Getting your Canon PIXMA TR4720 setup wireless is all about choosing the right path for your tech comfort level. I’ve configured enough of these to know that while the goal is the same—a stable connection—everyone’s home network is a little different. The good news? You’ve got options. Whether you’re a button-pusher, an app-lover, or have a fancy router, one of these methods will get your wireless printer setup sorted.
Method 1: Wireless Connect via the Printer’s Control Panel
This is the manual method, and it works every time if you’ve got a steady hand for navigating with arrow buttons. It’s perfect if your phone isn’t handy or you just prefer doing things directly on the device.
- On your printer, press the Wi-Fi button. It might take a second for the screen to wake up.
- Use the arrow buttons to navigate to Wireless LAN Setup and press OK.
- The printer will search for available networks. Select your Wi-Fi network from the list and press OK.
- Here’s the slightly tedious part: use the arrow buttons to type in your Wi-Fi password on the screen. Take your time; this is where typos happen! Use the left/right arrows to move the cursor and the up/down arrows to select characters.
- Once the password is entered correctly, select OK or Connect.
The printer will now attempt to connect to WiFi. The lights will blink while it works. If successful, the Wi-Fi light on the printer will turn solid. This method is a solid fallback if anything else fails.
Method 2: Using WPS (If Your Router Supports It)
This is, without a doubt, the easiest method—but only if your router has a physical WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) button. It’s usually marked with a symbol that looks like two curved arrows forming a circle.
- On your printer, press the Wi-Fi button.
- Hold down the WPS button on your router. You’ll usually see a light on the router start to blink.
- Within two minutes, press and hold the Wi-Fi button on your printer until the orange lamp flashes once.
- The printer and router will now talk to each other automatically. No passwords needed!
The entire WiFi setup is handled in the background. It’s magic. If your router has WPS, start here.
Method 3: Canon PRINT App (Best for Mobile Setup)
For most people in 2024, this is the winner. It turns the potentially frustrating process into a guided, foolproof tour. This is my top recommendation for a mobile setup and is the simplest path for setup with phone.
- On your smartphone, download the Canon PRINT app (from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store).
- Ensure your phone is connected to the same 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network you want the printer on.
- Open the app and follow the prompts. It will walk you through powering on the printer and will eventually detect it.
- The app will then ask you to select your network and enter your password directly on your phone—a much easier way to type!
- The app sends all the connection info to the printer. It’s the most user-friendly setup app process Canon offers.
Troubleshooting: Why Won’t My Canon TR4720 Connect to Wi-Fi?
So, you’ve tried and you’re staring at a printer that’s not connecting to WiFi. Don’t sweat it. This is where my field experience really pays off. 99% of problems are one of these three things:
- The Incorrect Password: This is the number one culprit. It’s so easy to mistype when using the printer’s buttons. Double-check caps lock and special characters. If you’re unsure, try connecting another device to your Wi-Fi with the password to confirm it’s correct.
- The 2.4GHz vs. 5GHz Divide: Here’s a critical insider tip: The Canon TR4720 only connects to 2.4GHz Wi-Fi networks. Many modern routers broadcast a combined signal or separate ones. If you’re trying to connect to a network that says “5G” or “5GHz” next to its name, it won’t work. You must select the 2.4GHz network. You can often tell which is which by looking at your router’s settings; the 2.4GHz network usually has a longer range but slightly slower speed, which is perfect for printers.
- Weak Signal: Printers are often tucked away in corners or on metal shelves. If the Wi-Fi signal is too weak, the connection will fail. Try moving the printer closer to the router temporarily to complete the wireless setup without WPS. If it works, you know you need a better spot for the printer or a Wi-Fi extender.
Installing Software and Drivers on Windows & Mac
Think of drivers as a translator—they help your computer and your printer speak the same language. Without the right driver installation, even a perfectly connected wireless printer is just a fancy paperweight. This step is non-negotiable for unlocking all your TR4720’s features, especially scanning. I’ve seen too many folks skip this and then wonder why their printer shows up as “offline” or why the scanner doesn’t work. Let’s get this translator hired.
The Best Way to Download Canon TR4720 Drivers
Forget the CD that came in the box. Those drivers were baked onto that disc months, maybe years, ago. The best way to ensure a smooth Canon PIXMA TR4720 driver download is to go straight to the source. Always get your drivers from the official Canon USA Support page. This guarantees you’re getting the latest, most secure, and most compatible software for your operating system. It’s the difference between using a rusty old key and a freshly cut one. Bookmark that page; it’s your lifeline for this printer.
Windows 10 & 11 Installation Guide
Whether you’re running setup Windows 10 or the newer setup Windows 11, the process is virtually identical and pretty painless.
- On the Canon support page, select your operating system (e.g., Windows 11).
- Download the “TR4700 Series Full Driver & Software Package.” It’s the big file, usually over 100MB. This contains everything you need.
- Locate the downloaded file (usually in your
Downloads
folder) and double-click to run it. - The installer will launch. Follow the on-screen prompts. It will ask you to agree to a license agreement and then search for your printer on the network.
- If your wireless connect to computer was successful, it should find your TR4720 automatically. Select it and continue.
- The installer will do its thing. This might take a few minutes. Once it’s done, it will likely prompt you to print a test page. Do it! That satisfying whir is your sign of success.
macOS Installation Guide
For Mac users, the process is even more streamlined. Apple’s built-in AirPrint technology handles basic printing, but to get the full suite of scanning utilities and advanced features, you still need Canon’s software for a full setup Mac.
- On the Canon support page, select your version of macOS (e.g., Sonoma, Ventura).
- Download the “TR4700 Series Full Driver & Software Package” for Mac.
- Open your
Downloads
folder and double-click the.dmg
file you just downloaded. - A new window will open. Double-click the “Install Canon TR4700 series” icon inside it.
- The installer will guide you through the process. You’ll likely need to enter your Mac’s administrator password to allow the installation.
- Once completed, you can find the Canon utilities like “IJ Scan Utility” in your
Applications
folder. To connect to laptop, ensure both your Mac and printer are on the same Wi-Fi network, and the software will find it.
What to Do If Driver Installation Fails
Sometimes, the installation hits a snag. Don’t panic. Here are the three most common fixes from my tech toolkit:
- Temporarily Disable Antivirus/Firewall: Security software can be overprotective and sometimes blocks a driver install. Try temporarily disabling it (right-click its icon in the system tray and choose “Disable” for 10 minutes) and then run the installer again. Remember to turn it back on!
- Run as Administrator (Windows): Right-click the installer file and select “Run as administrator.” This gives the installer the highest level of permission to place files where they need to go on your system.
- Check for OS Updates: An outdated operating system can cause compatibility issues. Go to your Windows Update or macOS Software Update settings and install any available updates. Restart your computer, then try the software download and installation again.
Advanced Setup: USB, Scanning, and Mobile Printing
Alright, so you’re connected and printing. Fantastic! But we’re just getting started. Your TR4720 is a more capable machine than most people realize. Let’s move beyond the basics and unlock its full potential. Whether you need a rock-solid wired connection, want to digitize your old photos, or print directly from your phone while lounging on the couch, we’ve got you covered. This is where we turn your printer from a simple output device into a true hub for your home or small office.
How to Setup Using a USB Cable
Maybe your Wi-Fi is spotty, or you just prefer the simplicity and reliability of a physical connection. A Canon PIXMA TR4720 USB setup is your answer. It’s the method I always use in my workshop for critical jobs because it eliminates network variables.
First, make sure the printer is powered off. Grab a standard USB-B cable (the square-shaped connector). Plug the square end firmly into the port on the back of the printer, and the standard rectangular end into an open USB port on your computer. Now, power the printer on. Your computer should detect new hardware. From here, you have two choices: you can let Windows or macOS try to find drivers automatically, or for the best results, simply run the Canon driver installer we discussed in the previous section. The installer will detect the USB connection and set everything up perfectly. It’s the most straightforward way to connect to computer and often resolves mysterious printing issues caused by wireless glitches.
Configuring the Scanner Function
That flat glass surface on top isn’t just for looks! The scanner setup is a hugely valuable feature. To use it, you’ll need the Canon software we installed earlier. On a Mac, look for “IJ Scan Utility” in your Applications folder. On Windows, you can usually access it by going to your Start Menu and searching for “Canon TR4700.”
Open the software. Place your document or photo face-down on the glass, aligning it with the corner marked by the little arrow. In the software, you can choose your scan type (e.g., Document, Photo), your desired format (PDF is great for documents, JPEG for photos), and resolution. Hit scan. In seconds, you’ll have a crisp, digital copy. It’s perfect for archiving important documents or saving childhood artwork.
Setting Up Mobile and Cloud Printing
This is where the real magic happens for most users today. Once your printer is on the network, mobile setup is a breeze.
- Apple AirPrint (iOS/macOS): If you have an iPhone, iPad, or Mac, this is the easiest method. There’s no app required. Just open a photo, document, or webpage, tap the share icon, then select “Print.” Your TR4720 should appear in the list of printers if it’s on the same Wi-Fi network. Select it and print. It just works.
- Canon PRINT App: We used this for setup, but it’s also a powerful printing and scanning tool. Use it to access photos on your phone, documents in cloud services like Google Drive or Dropbox, and even to scan documents directly using the printer’s scanner from your phone.
- Google Cloud Print (via Canon PRINT App): While the native Google Cloud Print service is retired, the functionality is often baked into the Canon app. This allows you to print to your home printer from anywhere you have an internet connection, not just your home Wi-Fi.
Setting this up ensures you can tackle any task, from any device, anywhere in your home.
Canon PIXMA TR4720 Troubleshooting: Fix Common Problems
Let’s be honest: sometimes, technology throws a tantrum. No matter how careful we are, things can go sideways. This isn’t a sign you did anything wrong; it’s just part of the relationship with any complex device. Consider this section your first-aid kit. I’ve built it from thousands of hours on support calls, and it addresses the exact Canon PIXMA TR4720 setup problems that real users face. When you hit a snag, stay calm, come here, and we’ll systematically get you back on track.
Printer Won’t Connect to Network
So, your printer is not connecting to WiFi even after following the steps? This is the most common headache, but the solution is almost always one of these steps. First, try the simplest fix: reboot your router and your printer. Turn them both off, wait 30 seconds, power the router back on and wait for all its lights to settle, then power the printer on. This clears out any temporary glitches in your network’s memory.
If that doesn’t work, let’s check if the printer actually has an IP address—its unique network ID. On the printer, press the Wi-Fi button and hold it down for about 5 seconds. It should print a network status sheet. Look for the “IP Address” line. If it says “0.0.0.0” or is blank, the connection truly failed. If there’s a number like “192.168.1.25”, then it is on the network, and the problem is likely with your computer’s ability to find it, which leads us to our next section.
Driver Issues and Printing Errors
If your printer is on the network but you’re still having printing issues (like jobs going to a mysterious void or errors popping up), the culprit is almost always the driver or a clogged print queue.
On Windows, go to your Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners. Find your TR4720, click on it, and select “Run troubleshooting.” This built-in tool can often fix simple problems. If that fails, the nuclear option is to remove the printer from this list entirely. Then, go to the Canon website, re-download the driver, and do a fresh install. This gives you a clean slate.
On a Mac, sometimes the print queue gets stuck. Go to System Settings > Printers & Scanners. Select your printer and click “Open Print Queue.” In the window that appears, click “Reset Printing System.” This will clear all pending jobs and often resolves stubborn issues.
Understanding Printer Light Signals
Your printer talks through its lights. A power light blinking steadily usually just means it’s processing data. But if it’s blinking in a specific pattern or you see an orange alarm light, it’s trying to tell you something specific.
- Power Light Blinking Steadily: Usually normal during activity. If it doesn’t stop, turn the printer off and back on.
- Power Light and Orange Light Alternating: This often indicates a paper jam. Power off the printer and carefully check all access points for any tiny scraps of torn paper.
- Orange Light Blinking: This typically signals an ink cartridge issue. Open the front cover and ensure both cartridges are clicked firmly into place. The blinking might continue for a minute as it recalibrates.
When to Perform a Factory Reset
A factory reset is your big red button. It wipes all your custom settings—including your Wi-Fi password—and returns the printer to its out-of-the-box state. You only need this if:
- You’re selling or giving away the printer.
- You’re moving it to a completely new network and the old settings are causing conflicts.
- Nothing else has worked, and you’re starting the entire Canon PIXMA TR4720 troubleshooting setup process from scratch.
How to do it: On the printer, go to Setup > Device Settings > Reset Settings. You can choose to reset all settings or just the LAN settings. For a complete fresh start, select “Reset All.” The printer will restart itself. After this, you’ll need to go through the wireless connection process again as if it were brand new.
Conclusion
And just like that, you’ve done it. From that initial moment of unboxing trepidation to now being someone who can confidently troubleshoot a blinking light, you’ve successfully navigated the complete journey. Think about it: you’ve gone from a box of parts to a fully networked, multi-function machine ready to tackle any printing, scanning, or copying task you throw at it.
This Canon PIXMA TR4720 installation guide was designed to do more than just help you successfully set up your printer. It was meant to give you a sense of ownership and confidence. You didn’t just follow steps; you learned the why behind them. You now know why we remove every piece of tape, why we download drivers from the source, and what those blinking lights are trying to tell you. That knowledge is power. It transforms you from someone who hopes a gadget works into someone who knows how to make it work.
Yes, printer setup can feel complex, but as we’ve shown, it’s just a series of simple steps done in the right order. You’ve now got the blueprint. More importantly, you’re equipped to handle the little hiccups that might pop up in the future. A paper jam? You’ve got it. A wireless hiccup? No sweat. You’re no longer at the mercy of your technology.
I started this guide by asking you to remember the frustration. I hope you’re now feeling the satisfaction that comes from conquering it. So go on, print that photo, scan that document, and enjoy the convenience you’ve worked hard to create. You’ve earned it.
If this guide got you out of a jam, pay it forward—help a friend or colleague with their next printer setup. And if you have your own war story or a tip I missed, drop it in the comments below. I read every one. Happy printing
FAQ: Your Canon PIXMA TR4720 Questions Answered
You’ve got questions—from setup hiccups to blinking lights—and I’ve got the straightforward answers from the workshop. Here are the solutions to the issues I get asked about most.
How do I connect my Canon PIXMA TR4720 to WiFi without WPS?
The easiest way is to use the Canon PRINT app. The app will guide you through the process of selecting your network and entering the password directly on your phone, which then sends the info to the printer.
Where do I download the correct driver for my Canon TR4720?
Always download drivers from the official Canon USA support website. Enter your printer model and select your operating system (e.g., Windows 11) to get the correct, virus-free software package.
Why is the power light on my Canon TR4720 blinking?
A blinking power light during initial setup is usually normal and means the printer is initializing. If it continues for more than 10 minutes or happens after setup, it may indicate a paper jam, ink cartridge issue, or internal error that requires troubleshooting.
Can I set up my Canon PIXMA TR4720 without a computer?
Absolutely. You can complete the entire setup using just the printer’s control panel and your smartphone. Use the Canon PRINT app for mobile setup, wireless configuration, and printing directly from your phone.
How do I perform a factory reset on my Canon TR4720?
Hold down the Stop button for 5-10 seconds until the power light flashes. Release the button. The printer will now restore its factory default settings. Note: This will erase your Wi-Fi settings.
My computer can’t find my TR4720 during setup. What should I do?
First, ensure both your computer and printer are on the same Wi-Fi network. If problems persist, try connecting via USB cable to complete the driver installation, then switch to wireless. Also, check that your firewall isn’t blocking the printer connection.