There are a few things that you can do to help speed up your scanner:
1. Make sure that your scanner is connected properly. Check the USB cable, power cord, power outlet, and the connections between the computer and the scanner. Ensure that all connections are secure and that the cables are not too long. As a rule of thumb, USB cables no longer than 6ft should be used for scanners.
2. Delete any unnecessary files from the memory card in your scanner. Old and large files can slow down the scanning process. If you don’t need files, delete them.
3. Make sure you’re using the most up-to-date version of your scanner’s software, if applicable. Outdated or corrupted software can contribute to slowdowns.
4. Clean the scanner glass regularly. Dust and smudges on the glass can interfere with the scanning process, slowing it down. Regularly wipe the glass clean with a microfiber cloth to keep it efficient.
5. Use high-resolution settings only when necessary. The higher the dpi (dots per inch) of an image, the longer it will take to scan. For everyday routine scanning, you may not need the highest settings; use lower settings where possible.
6. Upgrade your hardware, if you can. Older hardware may not be able to keep up with larger, more complex scanning jobs. Consider investing in a newer, faster scanner if your current one is lagging behind.
7. Double check the settings before starting a scan job. Some scanners have pre-set settings, which you can use to tailor the scan to the job at hand. Before you start scanning, make sure you have the optimal settings for the job.
8. Make sure your computer isn’t running any other programs. The more programs you have open, the slower your system will run. Close any programs you don’t need before you begin scanning.
9. Avoid scanning through USB hubs. If your computer has multiple USB ports, connect your scanner directly to a port instead of using a hub. USB hubs are notoriously unreliable and can affect scanning speed.
10. Take breaks in between large scan jobs. You may find that taking small breaks every few scans can help maintain scanning speed. Just remember to save your work before taking a break!