Scanning

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 === 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) --