How Do I Use The Scanner? How To Properly Scan A Document And Negative Onto A Computer? Step-by-step Instruction

2024 Author: Beatrice Philips | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-01-18 12:09

The scanner is a very handy device used both in offices and at home . It allows you to digitize photos and texts. This is necessary when copying information from documents, restoring the electronic form of printed images, and in many other cases. The principle of operation of the device is simple, however, those who have never encountered such equipment sometimes have difficulties. Let's figure out how to use the scanner correctly.

How to start?

Some preparatory work should be done first. First of all it is worth make sure the device can scan data … Today, many manufacturers offer multifunctional appliances. However, not all models are equipped with this feature.

Then follows connect the device to a computer or laptop . Many models connect to a PC via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. If the equipment does not have such modules, you can use the classic option - connect the device using a USB cable. The latter should be included in the purchase package.

To turn on the scanner itself, you need to press the activation button. If the connection was made correctly, you will see the indicator lights turn on. If the lights are off, it is recommended to check the position of the USB cable. Make sure that it fits all the way into the connector, inspect it for damage and defects … Perhaps your model of equipment is equipped with additional power supplies. In this case, they also need to be plugged into an outlet.

Many scanner models require additional drivers to be installed.

A software medium is included with the device and is accompanied by an instruction manual. If a disc is accidentally lost or damaged, you can purchase one from a specialist dealer . For a specific model name, look at the back of the scanner. All the information you need should be there. Another option is to download software via the Internet. To do this, you just need to enter the name of the model in the search bar.

If all of the above steps have been completed, and the computer has recognized the new device, you can insert a document (text or image) into the device. After inserting a sheet of paper into the slot, close the cover of the machine tightly. The immediate scanning process begins. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to make an electronic copy of your document.

How to scan?

The documents

After installing the driver, the option "Scanner Wizard" will appear on the PC. With its help, you can easily scan a passport, photo, book or just text printed on a regular sheet of paper. As already mentioned, some versions of Windows OS allow you to do without additional software. In this case, a simple plan of action should be followed.

1. Click the Start button . Select "All Programs". In the list that opens, find the appropriate item. It might be called Printers & Scanners, Fax & Scan, or something else.
2. A new window will open . In it, you should click "New scan".
3. Further select the type of image , from which you want to make a copy (color, gray or black and white). Also decide on the desired resolution.
4. At the end you need click "Scan " … When the process is complete, the image icons can be seen at the top of the monitor.

Next, we will consider popular programs that help scan information from paper media

1. ABBYY FineReader . With this application, you can not only scan a document, but also edit it. Conversion to the original file is also possible. To accomplish your plan, you should select the "File" item. Then you need to click the "New task" and "Scan" buttons.
2. CuneiForm . This program provides the ability to scan and convert files. Thanks to the built-in dictionary, you can check the text for errors.
3. VueScan . There are very wide opportunities for working with the resulting digital image. You can adjust contrast, resolution, resize.
4. PaperScan Free . This software also has a whole range of options for customizing images.

The last step when working with any software is to save the digitized file. In ABBYY FineReader, this is done at the touch of a button. The user immediately selects "Scan and Save". If a person works with another application, the digitization process itself takes place first, and then "Save" is pressed.

You can preview and customize the image . To do this, click the "View" button. After that, you should select the location to save the file. This can be a hard drive or external storage. In this case, it is necessary to somehow name the file, indicate its format. When the document is saved, the program closes. The main thing is to wait for the completion of this process. Keep in mind that some large files take a certain amount of time to fully save the information.

Photo

Scanning photographs and drawings is practically the same as working with text documents. There are only a few nuances.

1. It is important to select the scan mode … Allocate gray, color and black and white images.
2. After that it is worth deciding in what format you need a photo … The most common option is JPEG.
3. Having opened a future electronic photo in the "View" mode, you can change it if necessary (adjust contrast, etc.) … Also, the user is given the opportunity to choose a resolution.
4. In conclusion, you only need press the "Scan" and "Save" buttons .

Many people wonder if it is possible to create an electronic copy of a negative or slide using this type of equipment. Unfortunately, a conventional scanner is not suitable for this. Even if you try to digitize the film in this way, the backlight of the device will not be enough to get a good quality result.

For such purposes, a special flatbed scanner is used. In this case, the film is cut. Each segment should have 6 frames. Then one segment is taken and inserted into the frame. The scan button is pressed. The program splits the segment into frames on its own.

The main condition is the absence of dust and debris on the negatives. Even a small speck can noticeably spoil the resulting digital image.

Useful Tips

So that the result of each scan is flawless and the equipment pleases its owner for a long time, there are some simple rules to follow.

• Be careful when handling the device . There is no need to slam the lid or forcefully press down on the paper. This will not improve the quality of the material obtained, but it can cause damage to the apparatus.
• Remember to inspect the document for any staples . Metal and plastic clips can scratch the glass surface of the scanner.
• When finished, always close the scanner cover .… Leaving the machine open can damage it. First, dust will start to build up on the glass. Secondly, light rays can damage the digitizing element.
• It is, of course, important to keep the equipment clean . But aggressive detergents cannot be used for this. This is especially true for the inner surface of the device. To keep the device in good condition, simply wipe it down with a dry cloth. You can also use special products designed for cleaning glass surfaces.
• Do not clean live equipment . Unplug it from the mains before starting cleaning. This is important not only for keeping the device in good working order, but also for the safety of the user.
• If the equipment breaks down, do not try to repair it yourself . Always seek help from specialized centers. Do not disassemble the device out of sports interest.
• The location of the scanner is an important point . It is not recommended to place the equipment in areas of the room with direct sunlight (for example, near a window). The proximity of heating devices (convectors, central heating batteries) is also undesirable for the scanning apparatus.

Sharp temperature changes are also harmful to the scanner. This can significantly reduce the service life of the device.