Scanning
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Revision as of 10:35, 18 December 2013 by Rpeters (talk | contribs) (added reference to Vuescan (non-FOSS) app)
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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
- check the database at http://www.sane-project.org against existing/proposed scanner model
- 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 === Adjustments are needed to scan documents for archives or images for emailing. 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
- Vuescan (free version) also works well
- no installation instructions
- good user manual
- not open source and might be difficult to support
Note that many of these apps default to high-resolution, full colour settings, aimed at photos.
- Colour/Grayscale scans will produce files about 30 times the size of B&W/Lineart scans
- B&W/Lineart settings 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 11:35, 18 December 2013 (EST) --