Scanning: Difference between revisions

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(added preliminary guidance for new users of Linux)
 
(added sections for Apps & Troubleshooting plus minor mods)
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*Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network
*Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network
*HP & Epson also actively support Linux drivers for their scanners
*HP & Epson also actively support Linux drivers for their scanners
**most Epson devices support scanning via USB only (not via network)


=== Apps ===
Many Distro install only basic scanner apps by default. The following can be installed to provide greater functionality
*XSane
**can also be used via GIMP
*SimpleScan


Colour/Grayscale scans will produce files about 30 times the size of B&W/Lineart scans
--[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 12:33, 10 January 2013 (EST)
*B&W/Lineart might be a better choice for backing up or transmitting documents

=== Troubleshooting ===
If a scanner app fails to complete loading that indicates the scanner is "not found". Check:
*scanner/multi-function powered UP
*connection via USB or LAN made
*relevant driver installed

--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 09:21, 1 September 2013 (EST)
--[[Category:Technical Info]]
--[[Category:Technical Info]]

Revision as of 23:21, 31 August 2013

For General Users

New users of Linux may find that their scanner (and printer) is apparently neither supported nor supportable. Be aware of the following factors, before outlaying on a replacement scanner

  • Linux uses the SANE scanner technology rather than TWAIN, which is used in other OS
  • SANE depends on the *chip* used in the scanner, which might not be related to the scanner brand or model
    • check the database under "Selection Guideance" below, before concluding that a scanner is not supported
  • most Linux distributions use the same scanning software
    • XSane is the most capable
    • scanner driver packages for Linux usually do not include scanning software apps

Selection Guideance

  1. check the database at http://www.sane-project.org against existing/proposed scanner model
  2. download and install relevant driver from the manufacturers web site or sane-project
    • this can usually be done without the scanner physically present
  • seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install

Scanner Recommendations

The following factors might assist preparation of a "short-list"

  • Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network
  • HP & Epson also actively support Linux drivers for their scanners
    • most Epson devices support scanning via USB only (not via network)

Apps

Many Distro install only basic scanner apps by default. The following can be installed to provide greater functionality

  • XSane
    • can also be used via GIMP
  • SimpleScan

Colour/Grayscale scans will produce files about 30 times the size of B&W/Lineart scans

  • B&W/Lineart might be a better choice for backing up or transmitting documents

Troubleshooting

If a scanner app fails to complete loading that indicates the scanner is "not found". Check:

  • scanner/multi-function powered UP
  • connection via USB or LAN made
  • relevant driver installed

--Rpeters 09:21, 1 September 2013 (EST) --