Scanning documents from a printer to a computer is important for both home and office users who want to digitize physical documents for easier storage, sharing, and organization. However, new users or those who haven’t tried scanning often wonder how to scan from printer to computer. This process involves finding the scanning option on your system and configuring your desired scan settings. After that, preview the scan and initiate the scanning procedure. In this blog, we will explain in detail how to scan from printer to computer in Windows and Mac.
How to Scan from Printer to Computer – General Steps to Follow
Most modern printers come equipped with scanning capabilities. They are integrated or via an external scanning module. The scanning process generally involves placing your document correctly, selecting scan settings, previewing the scan, and saving the digital file to your computer in most operating systems.
Step 1: Prepare Your Document
Remove any staples, wrinkles, or folds from the document. Place the document either face-down on the scanner glass or face-up in the automatic document feeder (ADF), depending on your printer’s design.
Step 2: Access the Scanner on Your Printer
On the printer’s control panel or touchscreen, look for options labeled “Scan,” “Scan to Computer,” or similar. If your printer supports wireless scanning, ensure it is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your computer.
Step 3: Select Scan Settings
Here are the different scan settings you can choose:
- Color Mode: Choose between black and white, grayscale, or color.
- Resolution: Set the DPI (dots per inch). Higher DPI means better quality but larger file size.
- File Format: Common options include PDF, JPEG, or TIFF. PDFs are ideal for documents; JPEGs work well for images.
Step 4: Preview the Scan
Use the preview feature (if available) to check the scan’s alignment and quality. Adjust the document position or settings if necessary.
Step 5: Scan the Document
Initiate the scan from the printer’s interface. The printer will process the document and convert it into a digital file.
Step 6: Save the Scanned Document to Your Computer
After scanning, the file will be saved to your computer. Choose a folder location and file name that make it easy to find later.
How to Scan from Printer to Computer in Windows 10 and 11?
Use these steps to scan from your printer to computer in Windows OS.
- Ensure your printer is connected to your computer:
- Plug the USB cord directly.
- If you are using Wi-Fi or network connection, connect the printer and PC to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Windows 11 usually detects the printer automatically. If not, go to Settings → Bluetooth & devices → Printers & scanners and click Add device if your printer doesn’t show up.
Scan Using Windows Scan App
- If you don’t have the Windows Scan app, download it from the Microsoft Store:
- Open Microsoft Store, and search for “Windows Scan.”
- After installing the scanning app, launch Windows Scan.
- Select your printer, file type (JPEG, PDF, etc.), and resolution.
- Click Preview to see the scan, then Scan to complete.
How to Scan from Printer to Computer in Mac?
To scan from printer to computer in Mac, use the built-in tools like the Preview app or ImageCapture. Here are the detailed instructions.1. Use Preview App (Built-in on macOS)
- Open Preview (Finder → Applications → Preview). Click File > Import from Scanner (or Import from [Printer Name]).
- If your printer is listed, select it.
- The scanning interface will open.
- Choose the type of scan (Color, Black & White, or Text).
- Select the scanning area and resolution if needed.
- Click Scan.
- Save the scanned file (File > Save) in your desired location.
2. Use Image Capture (Another Built-in Tool)
- Open Image Capture (Finder → Applications → Image Capture).
- Select your printer/scanner in the left-hand panel.
- Choose your scan settings (format, resolution, destination folder).
- Click Scan.
3. Use Printer Software if You Don’t Have Scanning Apps
Some printers have dedicated apps or drivers you can download from their manufacturer’s website. These often provide more features like OCR, multi-page scanning, or presets.
Concluding Words
Now, you won’t find the question how to scan from printer to computer hard to answer. We have provided you all the instructions to scan successfully in both operating systems. Still, if you face issues, contact customer support.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I get my computer to recognize my printer as a scanner?
Check whether the printer is connected and powered on. Install the necessary scanner drivers from the printer manufacturer’s website. Also, enable the printer’s scanning functionality in your system.
2. How are printers and scanners connected directly to a computer?
Printers and scanners are connected directly to the computer through USB cable or the wireless network. For a wireless connection, drivers also need to be installed.
3. Which settings should I prioritize for high-quality scans from my printer?
High resolution, accurate color mode, and adjusting the density or darkness setting will ensure that the scan is neither too light nor too dark.