How to Scan and Copy Documents Using the Epson EcoTank L6290

The Epson EcoTank L6290 is a multifunctional printer designed for both home and office environments. Equipped with high-speed printing, wireless connectivity, and advanced scanning and copying features, the L6290 makes document handling seamless and efficient. But if you’re new to this device or multifunction printers in general, understanding how to use its scanning and copying features — especially the settings — can be overwhelming.

In this guide, we’ll break down how to scan and copy documents using the Epson EcoTank L6290, walk through essential settings like resolution, file type, and color options, and help you choose between the flatbed scanner or ADF (Automatic Document Feeder) depending on your task.

Choosing Between Flatbed and ADF Scanning

The Epson L6290 features two types of scanning options:

1. Flatbed Scanning

The flatbed scanner is the glass surface beneath the top lid. It’s perfect for:

Single-page documents
Fragile or thick items (e.g., ID cards, books)
High-resolution scans (photos, detailed text)

2. Automatic Document Feeder (ADF)

The ADF sits on top of the printer and is ideal for:

Scanning multiple pages automatically
Double-sided documents (with duplex scanning support)
Fast, bulk document digitization

When to use what?

Use flatbed scanning when quality and detail are your priority.
Use ADF for speed and bulk scanning, especially when scanning text-heavy pages.

Adjusting Scan Settings (Resolution, Color, File Type)

Understanding scan settings is crucial to getting the best results from your scans. The Epson L6290 allows you to tweak several scan parameters.

1. Resolution (DPI)

Low (150–200 DPI): Best for basic text documents.
Medium (300 DPI): Ideal for standard-quality color documents or OCR scans.
High (600+ DPI): Best for photos, graphics, or fine print.

Tip: Higher DPI results in larger file sizes. Choose wisely depending on your need.

2. Color Mode

Color: For full-color pages or photos.
Grayscale: For shaded black-and-white images or text.
Black & White: For simple text documents, reduces file size.

3. File Type

PDF: Best for multi-page documents and sharing.
JPEG: Great for images and colorful scans.
TIFF: High-quality format for archiving.
PNG: Lossless image format, good for graphics or diagrams.

All these settings can be accessed via the Epson ScanSmart software (on PC) or the Epson Smart Panel app (on mobile).

Step-by-Step Guide to Scanning to PC or Smartphone

📥 Scanning to PC

Step 1: Prepare the document

For flatbed: Open the lid and place the document face-down on the glass.
For ADF: Insert documents face-up with the top edge entering first.

Step 2: Launch Epson ScanSmart

Open the Epson ScanSmart application on your PC.
Select the scanner (EcoTank L6290) if not auto-detected.

Step 3: Choose Scan Settings

Adjust resolution, color mode, file type, and destination folder.
For multi-page scans, enable “Save as multi-page PDF.”

Step 4: Click “Scan”

Let the machine finish scanning all pages.
Preview your file and click “Save” or “Send” (via email, Google Drive, Dropbox, etc.)

📱 Scanning to Phone (Using Epson Smart Panel App)

Step 1: Download the Epson Smart Panel app (available on iOS and Android).

Step 2: Connect your printer and phone to the same Wi-Fi network.

Step 3: Open the app, select the “Scan” function.

Step 4: Choose settings (resolution, color, file type), place your document, and hit Scan.

Step 5: Once scanned, you can save the file to your phone, share it via WhatsApp or email, or upload it to the cloud.

Easy Copying of Black-and-White or Color Documents

The Epson L6290 simplifies copying, allowing you to quickly duplicate documents at the press of a button.

✍️ How to Copy Documents:

Step 1: Place the original

Flatbed for single pages or ID cards
ADF for multiple sheets

Step 2: Access Copy Menu

Use the LCD control panel on the printer.
Select Black or Color Copy depending on your need.

Step 3: Adjust Settings (Optional)

Number of copies
Copy density (light/dark)
Paper size or enlargement/reduction options

Step 4: Press “Start”

Quick Tip: Use “ID Copy” for duplicating both sides of an ID card onto one page.

Saving Scanned Files and Sharing Them

After scanning a document, storing and sharing it efficiently is essential.

💾 Save to:

Local PC or Mac folder
Mobile storage (via Smart Panel App)
USB Drive (if connected to the printer)

📤 Share via:

Email (PDF or JPEG attachment)
Google Drive / Dropbox
WhatsApp or Messenger (from phone app)

Most file sharing settings can be pre-configured via the ScanSmart software on PC or the Smart Panel app on mobile.

Troubleshooting Common Scan/Copy Errors

Despite being a reliable machine, the Epson EcoTank L6290 may occasionally encounter scanning or copying hiccups. Here’s how to troubleshoot the most common problems.

1. Paper Jam in ADF

Open the ADF cover.
Gently remove stuck pages.
Avoid inserting curled or folded paper.

2. Scanner Not Detected (on PC)

Ensure printer and PC are on the same network.
Reinstall Epson ScanSmart software.
Restart both devices.

3. Scans Are Blurry or Crooked

Clean the scanner glass and ADF rollers.
Reposition the original document properly.
Avoid moving the device during scanning.

4. Color Not Displaying Correctly

Ensure “Color Mode” is set to Color, not Grayscale.
Clean the scanner glass.
Try a higher resolution for better output.

5. Scan to Email Fails

Configure SMTP settings correctly in the printer’s network setup.
Use valid sender credentials.
Check Wi-Fi connectivity.

6. Copy is Too Light or Too Dark

Adjust the density setting via the printer’s copy menu.
Ensure the original document has clear contrast.

Pro Tips to Maximize Epson L6290’s Scan/Copy Performance

Keep the scanner glass clean to avoid smudges or streaks in your scans.
Use folders and naming templates in ScanSmart to stay organized.
Enable double-sided (duplex) scanning in the ADF settings to save time.
Update printer firmware regularly for smoother connectivity and bug fixes.
Avoid low-resolution scans for important documents — you may need to re-scan later.

Final Thoughts

The Epson EcoTank L6290 is more than just a printer — it’s a full-fledged document management system. Whether you’re scanning a single ID or copying a stack of legal documents, understanding how to use both the flatbed and ADF functions, adjusting settings like resolution and file format, and managing outputs efficiently will greatly improve your productivity.

With its intuitive apps, customizable options, and high-speed scanning and copying capabilities, this device is ideal for both tech-savvy users and beginners. Just follow the steps in this guide and you’ll be scanning, copying, and sharing like a pro.

How to Scan and Copy Documents Using the Epson EcoTank L6290 (With Settings Explained)