PC/Scanner recognition problems!

[AceHarddrive]

Hello everyone!
I have an Umax Astra 2100U flatbed scanner that has been used maybe a total of five times in the past. Here's my trouble: I installed the software and plugged in the scanner, made sure it was activated, but my PC fails to recognize the scanner. I posted this on the "pc help" group on Yahoo, and got a coupla replies, but that was quite a long-time ago. One person said to do something about any "twain" and "TWUNK" files, but he never elaborated on it and I never could get an answer from anyone. Can anyone help?

Thanks very much!
~Tim

 

[momalle1]

What is your OS? How does it look in Device Manager? When you say it's not recognized, do you mean your software has no devices listed under import?

You may also have to uninstall, then reinstall your software.

 

[AceHarddrive]

I tried to install the VistaScan program, but I keep getting this:

This is the first-time I have ever seen this message.

According to the owner's manual: "The Astra 2100U scanner is equipped with a USB connector that allows you to make a fast and easy connection to the USB port on your PC, or USB-equipped Macintosh computer."

When I say my computer is not recognizing the scanner, I mean that I get error messages telling me that it does not recognize the scanner. I guess by that, it means it can tell that something is plugged into the USB port, but the computer has no idea what it is.

I have a Compaq PC with Windows XP. Any ideas?

~Tim

 

[momalle1]

There are a couple of things (has this ever worked?)


check this at Microsoft's site

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/889506

How long ago did you get the scanner? Is it possible you need software for XP?

This is from Umax's site

Notes: Please read record SC00198 before downloading. This patch requires your computer to have VistaScan 3.55 installed. You install this patch on top of VistaScan.
Download Link:
Windows XP Patch
File Size:
1.09 MB
Updated:
02/14/2002

usually with scanners, you have to be very careful about following the instructions, most want the software loaded before you connect the scanner.

 

[AceHarddrive]

I don't remember how long ago I got it, but I believe I originally had it hooked up to my iMac (back before the turn of the millenium, I think ). I posted this over on the "DrawingTogether2" Yahoo Group back in August and received a reply that usually the best thing is to download a patch or upgrade to the "original" program. Like you found out, the current version for Vistascan is 3.55. The one I have on the disc that came with the scanner is version 3.52. So it has been a while! Unfortunately, the 3.55 cannot be downloaded (only the patch), only shipped to the customer on a CD. Total for this was close to $20.00 USD. We'll see what happens when it arrives.

~Tim

There are a couple of things (has this ever worked?)


check this at Microsoft's site

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/889506

How long ago did you get the scanner? Is it possible you need software for XP?

This is from Umax's site

Notes: Please read record SC00198 before downloading. This patch requires your computer to have VistaScan 3.55 installed. You install this patch on top of VistaScan.
Download Link:
Windows XP Patch
File Size:
1.09 MB
Updated:
02/14/2002

usually with scanners, you have to be very careful about following the instructions, most want the software loaded before you connect the scanner.

 

[momalle1]

I hope it works out for you, if not, those Canoscan scanners for under $100 are pretty good, and don't use a power cable, they get power from the USB cable.

 

[AceHarddrive]

Yeah, I've been looking at the Canoscan models (just in case).

~Tim

 

[micro]

yep your problem is that the scanner is designed for a 16 bit programming and thus wont work with the new windows xp. Go to the manufactures web site and see if they have an updated driver, or go to driversguide.com they should have a driver there.

Even a new $20 scanner should be better than your old one due to the advancements since yours was made.

 

[AceHarddrive]

I've been thinking it might be more worth it (in the long run) to just get a new(er) Canoscan LiDE scanner instead of fighting with the one I have now. I'm more interested in something that can accurately scan lineart and photographs. Anybody have any opinions on the Canoscan LiDE series?

~Tim

 

[momalle1]

I've been thinking it might be more worth it (in the long run) to just get a new(er) Canoscan LiDE scanner instead of fighting with the one I have now. I'm more interested in something that can accurately scan lineart and photographs. Anybody have any opinions on the Canoscan LiDE series?

~Tim

I currently have the LiDE 35, previously had a 30 and I can't see why I would possibly want something more expensive unless I was a professional printer. Also works on Windows, Mac and Linux.