If your scanner is not being detected by the computer, there are a few steps you can take in order to attempt to troubleshoot and resolve the issue.
1. Check Connections: First, check that the USB or other cables connecting the scanner to the computer are securely connected at both ends, and that the scanner is properly powered on. Additionally, check that no other device is obstructing the connections.
2. Update Drivers: If the device driver for the scanner is out of date, this can cause it to not be recognized by the computer. To update the driver, locate the manufacturer’s website, enter your scanner’s model number, and download the latest version of the driver. Once successfully downloaded, install the update.
3. Restart Hardware and Computer: Sometimes a hardware restart or a computer restart may be necessary to get the device detected by the computer. Unplug the power of the scanner, wait a few seconds, and then plug it back in. If restarting the computer doesn’t work, try restarting the computer and scanner together.
4. Check BIOS Settings: If the driver has been updated and the hardware and computer have been restarted, but the computer still doesn’t detect the scanner, try checking the BIOS settings. Restart the computer and press the “F2” or “Del” key repeatedly until the BIOS menu appears. Find the option for “Integrated Peripherals” or “Onboard Devices” and make sure that “USB Legacy support” is enabled.
5. Try Different Ports and Cables: Sometimes a certain port or cable connection can be faulty, so trying different ports and/or different cables can provide a solution. If the scanner still isn’t being detected, try connecting it to another computer, as the port or cable connections on the other computer may be functioning differently.
6. Disable Closing of USB Lid on laptop: If the scanner is being connected to a laptop, go to the Device Manager window, choose Universal Serial Bus Controllers, and double-click on the USB port. Then, uncheck the box “Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.” Reboot the computer and try connecting the scanner again.
7. Clean the Scanner: Dust, dirt and other grime can accumulate on the scanner’s surface over time and interfere with proper connections. If all of the above troubleshooting steps don’t work, try cleaning the scanner’s surface including the ports and cable connections with a slightly damp cloth.
If none of these solutions are successful, contact the manufacturer of the scanner or the technical support team at your computer’s manufacturer to find out what other options you may have. In some cases, the scanner may be incompatible with the computer and require a replacement.