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The Brother DCP-L2550dw has become popular for Singapore businesses and home offices seeking a reliable multifunction laser printer. This versatile device combines print, copy, and scan functions in a compact design with wireless connectivity. Whether you own this printer or are considering purchasing one, understanding its specifications and consumable options can help you maximise performance while minimising costs.
This comprehensive guide will explore the Brother DCP-L2550dw’s capabilities, compare original and compatible consumables available in Singapore, and provide practical advice on installation and troubleshooting. You’ll discover how choosing the right supplies can significantly reduce your printing costs while maintaining excellent output quality.
Brother DCP-L2550dw Specifications and Features
The Brother DCP-L2550dw is a monochrome laser all-in-one printer designed for small to medium workgroups. It offers impressive print speeds, versatile connectivity options, and efficient paper handling capabilities, making it ideal for Singapore’s busy office environments.
| Specification | Details |
| Print Technology | Electrophotographic Laser Printer (Monochrome) |
| Print Speed | Up to 34 pages per minute (A4) |
| Print Resolution | Up to 1200 x 1200 dpi |
| Automatic Duplex | Yes (2-sided printing) |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet input tray + 1-sheet manual feed slot |
| Document Feeder | 50-sheet automatic document feeder (ADF) |
| Connectivity | Hi-Speed USB 2.0, Ethernet, Wireless 802.11b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Memory | 256 MB |
| Display | 2-line LCD |
| Dimensions (W×D×H) | 410 × 398.5 × 318.5 mm |
| Weight | 11.8 kg |
| Singapore Retail Price | S$298 – S$328 |
The Brother DCP-L2550dw stands out for its efficient automatic document feeder, which allows you to scan or copy multiple pages without manual intervention. Its wireless capabilities enable convenient printing from mobile devices, while the automatic duplex feature helps reduce paper consumption by printing on both sides.
Maximise Your Printing Efficiency
Invest in the high-yield TN2480 toner cartridge for long-term savings and reduced environmental impact.
Check Current PriceBrother DCP-L2550dw Consumables Overview
The Brother DCP-L2550dw uses two main consumable components: toner cartridges and a drum unit. Understanding these components and their replacement cycles is essential for effectively managing printing costs.
Original Brother Consumables
| Consumable | Page Yield (ISO/IEC 19798) | Retail Price (SGD) | Cost Per Page (SGD) |
| TN2460 (Standard Toner) | 1,200 pages | S$89 | S$0.074 |
| TN2480 (High-Capacity Toner) | 3,000 pages | S$159 | S$0.053 |
| DR2455 (Drum Unit) | 12,000 pages | S$169 | S$0.014 |
Understanding Page Yield and ISO/IEC 19798 Standards
Page yield refers to the estimated number of pages a toner cartridge or drum unit can print before requiring replacement. The ISO/IEC 19798 standard provides a consistent method for measuring page yield, allowing for fair comparisons between different consumables.
ISO/IEC 19798 Testing Methodology: This international standard measures page yield under controlled conditions using a standardized 5% coverage pattern (meaning 5% of the page is covered with toner). Real-world yields may vary based on your specific printing habits, document types, and environmental conditions.
High-Capacity vs. Standard Toner: Cost Efficiency and Sustainability
The TN2480 high-capacity toner offers significant advantages over the standard TN2460 cartridge:
Cost Savings
- 150% more pages (3,000 vs. 1,200)
- Only 79% higher price
- 28% lower cost per page
- Potential savings of S$59+ for equivalent page volume
Environmental Benefits
- Reduced packaging waste
- Fewer cartridge replacements
- Lower transportation carbon footprint
- Less frequent disposal of used cartridges
Save with High-Capacity Toner
The Brother TN2480 high-capacity toner cartridge offers 69% lower cost per page compared to the standard TN2460.
Shop TN2480 TonerCompatible Cartridges: A Cost-Effective Alternative
Compatible cartridges offer a budget-friendly alternative to original Brother consumables. These third-party products are designed to work with your Brother DCP-L2550dw printer while providing significant cost savings.
Original vs. Compatible: Cost Comparison
| Metric | Original Brother | Compatible Alternative | Savings (SGD/%) |
| TN2460 Price | S$89 | S$39 | S$50 (56%) |
| TN2480 Price | S$159 | S$59 | S$100 (63%) |
| DR2455 Price | S$169 | S$79 | S$90 (53%) |
| Cost Per Page (TN2480) | S$0.053 | S$0.020 | S$0.033 (62%) |
| Annual Cost (5,000 pages) | S$265 | S$100 | S$165 (62%) |
Advantages of Compatible Cartridges
Advantages
- Significant cost savings (50-65% lower prices)
- Comparable print quality for most business documents
- Similar page yields to original cartridges
- Reduced environmental impact through remanufacturing
- Often available with same-day delivery in Singapore
Considerations
- Quality may vary between manufacturers
- Slight variations in color density possible
- Choose reputable suppliers with quality guarantees
- Check warranty policies before purchasing
Legal Protection for Consumers in Singapore
Singapore’s Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act safeguards consumers who choose compatible cartridges. Under this legislation, printer manufacturers cannot void your warranty simply because you use third-party consumables. The warranty can only be voided if the compatible cartridge directly causes damage to the printer.
“A supplier cannot exclude or restrict a consumer’s rights by contract terms, notices or other provisions. This includes attempts to void warranties solely for using compatible consumables.”
Save Up to 69% on Printing Costs
Quality compatible cartridges for your Brother DCP-L2550dw offer significant savings without compromising performance.
Shop Compatible CartridgesInstallation Guide: TN2480 Toner and DR2455 Drum
Proper toner cartridge and drum unit installation is essential for optimal print quality and longevity of your Brother DCP-L2550DW printer. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a smooth replacement process.
Installing the TN2480 Toner Cartridge
- Prepare the printer: Press the release button by turning on your Brother DCP-L2550dw and open the front cover.
- Remove old cartridge: If replacing an existing cartridge, gently pull out the toner cartridge and drum unit assembly.
- Separate components: Press the green lock lever and separate the old toner cartridge from the drum unit.
- Prepare new toner: Unpack the new TN2480 cartridge and gently shake it side to side several times to distribute the toner evenly.
- Remove protective cover: Remove the protective cover from the toner cartridge.
- Insert new toner: Firmly insert the new toner cartridge into the drum unit until you hear it lock into place.
- Clean corona wire: Clean the corona wire by gently sliding the green tab from left to right and back several times.
- Reinstall assembly: Slide the toner and drum assembly back into the printer until it clicks.
- Close the cover: Close the front cover of the printer and wait for it to return to the ready state.
Replacing the DR2455 Drum Unit
- To access the drum, open the front cover of your printer and remove the toner cartridge and drum unit assembly.
- Separate components: Press the green lock lever and remove the toner cartridge from the old drum unit.
- Prepare new drum: Unpack the new DR2455 drum unit, carefully not to touch the green drum surface.
- Install toner: Insert your toner cartridge into the new drum unit until you hear it lock into place.
- Reset drum counter: After installing the new assembly, press the ‘OK’ button on the printer’s control panel for 4 seconds.
- Select ‘Drum’: Use the arrow keys to select ‘Drum’ and press ‘OK’.
- Confirm reset: Select ‘Reset’ and press ‘OK’ to reset the drum counter.
- Complete installation: Close the front cover and print a test page to verify proper installation.
Pro Tip: Always handle the drum unit by its edges and avoid touching the green drum surface. Fingerprints or dust on the drum can affect print quality.
Need replacement supplies?
Get genuine Brother consumables or quality-guaranteed compatible alternatives for your DCP-L2550dw.
Shop Printer SuppliesTroubleshooting Common Issues
Even with proper installation and maintenance, you may occasionally encounter issues with your Brother DCP-L2550dw printer or its consumables. Here are solutions to common problems:
Poor Print Quality or Faded Prints
Possible causes: Low toner, drum unit damage, or printer settings.
Solutions:
- Gently shake the toner cartridge to redistribute toner
- Print a test page from the printer settings menu
- Clean the corona wire by sliding the green tab
- Check the toner density settings in the printer driver
- Replace the toner cartridge if it is nearly empty
- Consider replacing the drum unit if it’s over 12,000 pages
Paper Jams
Possible causes: Improper paper loading, wrong paper type, or debris in the paper path.
Solutions:
- Open all covers and carefully remove the jammed paper
- Check for and remove any torn pieces of paper
- Fan paper stack before loading to prevent sticking
- Ensure paper guides are properly adjusted
- Use recommended paper weight (60-163 g/m²)
- Clean paper feed rollers with a lint-free cloth
Toner or Drum Error Messages
Common error messages: “Replace Toner,” “Drum End Soon,” or “Drum Error.”
Solutions:
- For “Toner Low” – continue printing until quality degrades
- For “Replace Toner” – install a new toner cartridge
- For “Drum End Soon” – order a replacement drum unit
- For “Drum Error” – clean the corona wire or replace the drum
- After replacing the drum, reset the drum counter
- If using compatible cartridges, ensure they’re properly installed
Connectivity Issues
Possible causes: Network configuration, driver issues, or printer settings.
Solutions:
- Restart both the printer and your computer/router
- Verify the printer is connected to the correct network
- Update printer drivers from the Brother website
- For Wi-Fi issues, try connecting via Ethernet temporarily
- Reset network settings if necessary (consult the manual)
- Ensure firewall settings aren’t blocking printer communication
Need technical support?
Contact Brother Singapore support or InkWorld for assistance with your DCP-L2550dw printer issues.
Get Brother SupportCompatible Brother Printer Models
The TN2460, TN2480, and DR2455 consumables are compatible with several Brother printer models beyond the DCP-L2550dw. If you own any of the following printers, you can use the same supplies discussed in this guide:
DCP Series
- DCP-L2535dw
- DCP-L2550dw
MFC Series
- MFC-L2715dw
- MFC-L2750dw
HL Series
- HL-L2375dw
This compatibility across multiple printer models makes it convenient if you have several Brother printers in your office or if you upgrade your printer in the future. You can continue using the same consumables without purchasing different supplies for each device.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Singapore’s Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act safeguard against unjust warranty voiding?
Singapore’s Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act protects consumers from unfair practices, including unjustified warranty voiding. Under this legislation, printer manufacturers cannot void your warranty simply because you use third-party consumables. The warranty can only be invalidated if the manufacturer can prove that the compatible cartridge directly caused damage to the printer. This legal protection ensures consumers can choose cost-effective alternatives without fear of losing their warranty coverage.
Is purchasing compatible cartridges legal in Singapore?
Yes, purchasing and using compatible cartridges is completely legal in Singapore. Compatible cartridges are aftermarket products designed to work with specific printer models without infringing on patents. They differ from counterfeit products that illegally use brand names or trademarks. Reputable, compatible cartridge manufacturers design their products to function properly with your printer while offering significant cost savings. The Competition and Consumer Commission of Singapore (CCCS) supports consumer choice in the printer consumables market.
Why won’t self-contained toner or drum cartridges damage my Brother printer?
Quality compatible cartridges are designed with the same specifications as original cartridges and function as self-contained units. They don’t interact with the printer’s internal mechanisms beyond the designated connection points. Modern compatible cartridges undergo rigorous testing to ensure they meet industry standards for quality and safety. The toner powder is contained within the cartridge, and the drum unit is a separate replaceable component. As long as you purchase from reputable suppliers who offer quality guarantees, compatible cartridges pose no risk to your Brother DCP-L2550DW printer.
Where can I purchase reliable, compatible cartridges in Singapore?
InkWorld Singapore is a highly recommended supplier for compatible Brother cartridges. They offer quality-guaranteed alternatives for the TN2460, TN2480, and DR2455 at competitive prices. InkWorld provides same-day delivery across Singapore, a 30-day satisfaction guarantee, and excellent customer support. Their compatible cartridges undergo strict quality control testing to ensure consistent performance. You can visit their physical store in Singapore or order online through their website for convenient delivery.
What other Brother models use the same toner and drum cartridges?
The TN2460, TN2480, and DR2455 consumables are compatible with multiple Brother printer models including: DCP-L2535dw, DCP-L2550dw, MFC-L2710dw, MFC-L2713dw, MFC-L2715dw, MFC-L2730dw, MFC-L2750dw, HL-L2375dw, HL-L2370dn, HL-L2350dw, and HL-L2310d. This cross-compatibility makes these consumables versatile options if you own multiple Brother printers or plan to upgrade.
How often should I replace the drum unit in my Brother DCP-L2550dw?
The DR2455 drum unit has an approximate yield of 12,000 pages under standard conditions. Unlike toner cartridges, which need more frequent replacement, the drum typically lasts through 3-4 toner cartridge cycles. Your printer will display a “Drum End Soon” message when replacement is approaching. For optimal print quality, replace the drum unit when you notice consistent quality issues that persist even after replacing the toner cartridge or when you reach the 12,000-page threshold.
What is the difference between the toner cartridge and the drum unit?
The toner cartridge (TN2460/TN2480) contains the powder (toner) used to create images on paper. The drum unit (DR2455) is a photosensitive component that transfers the toner to paper. Think of the toner as the “ink” and the drum as the “printing press.” The toner cartridge typically needs replacement more frequently (1,200-3,000 pages) while the drum unit lasts longer (approximately 12,000 pages). Both components are necessary for proper printer function, but have different lifespans and purposes.
Can I use TN2460 and TN2480 interchangeably in my printer?
Yes, the TN2460 (standard yield) and TN2480 (high yield) toner cartridges are physically identical and can be used interchangeably in your Brother DCP-L2550dw printer. The only difference is the amount of toner contained inside. The TN2480 contains more toner powder, allowing it to print approximately 3,000 pages compared to the TN2460’s 1,200 pages. Without compatibility issues, you can switch between these cartridges based on your printing needs and budget considerations.
How can I maximise the lifespan of my toner cartridge?
To extend your toner cartridge life: 1) Use draft or toner save mode for non-critical documents, 2) Print in duplex (double-sided) mode to reduce paper usage, 3) Keep the printer in a clean, dust-free environment, 4) Allow the printer to complete its startup cycle before printing, 5) Print regularly to prevent toner from settling, 6) Gently shake the cartridge when you receive “Toner Low” warnings to redistribute remaining toner, and 7) Consider using the high-yield TN2480 cartridge for better value per page.
What should I do with used toner cartridges and drum units?
In Singapore, you can recycle used Brother toner cartridges and drum units through several programs: 1) Brother’s recycling program at authorized collection points, 2) NEA’s e-waste recycling bins located throughout Singapore, 3) InkWorld Singapore’s cartridge recycling program that offers discounts on future purchases, or 4) Project Homecoming, a nationwide printer cartridge recycling initiative. Recycling these items helps reduce environmental impact and supports Singapore’s Zero Waste Nation initiative.
Ready to save on your printing costs?
Get quality compatible cartridges for your Brother DCP-L2550dw and enjoy up to 69% savings.
Shop Now at InkWorld SingaporeConclusion
The Brother DCP-L2550dw is a versatile and reliable multifunction laser printer that offers excellent value for Singapore businesses and home offices. By understanding your consumable options—including original Brother supplies and quality compatible alternatives—you can significantly reduce printing costs while maintaining professional output quality.
High-capacity toner cartridges like the TN2480 offer better value than standard options, while compatible cartridges provide even greater savings of up to 63%. Singapore’s Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act ensures you can confidently use these cost-effective alternatives without risking your printer warranty.
Whether you choose original Brother consumables or quality compatible alternatives, proper installation and maintenance will help maximise the performance and lifespan of your Brother DCP-L2550dw printer. For the best balance of quality, reliability, and affordability, consider exploring InkWorld Singapore’s range of compatible cartridges for your printing needs.
