Slide Scanner Guide

Alright everyone, now comes to fun part: Today we’re going to tell you how you should go about installing your photo slide scanner and preparing it for use. This is one of those things that may be a little difficult for those of you who don’t really use computers very often; in fact, that applies to many people who do still use standard 35mm film instead of opting for digital cameras. Not to say there’s anything wrong with that, of course! I prefer to use film when I can instead of going for the “little too perfect” digital camera look. This should help any of you who might be a little intimidated by using a computerized photo scanner for the first time.

So, the first thing that you’re going to do when you pull everything out of the box is look for is your instruction manual. This is the very first thing you should look at when it comes out of the box. While I can help give you generic installation instructions here, the specifics of installing and operating your photo slide scanner are going to be found in that little booklet. Start by reading the installation instructions carefully. Don’t go to the next step until you’re absolutely certain that you’ve read and at least have some understanding about what the installation process will cover. All set? Excellent, let’s continue the install.

Generally, most scanner manuals are going to tell you that you shouldn’t plug it right in. You should look for an installation CD in the box that the scanner came with. If you don’t see one, and the scanner manual says “Plug And Play” on it, you can generally go ahead and plug it in to your computer before you start. If it’s “plug and play” compatible, that generally means that Windows will recognize the device and automatically install its drivers without the use of a CD.

If it does come with a CD, go ahead and pop it into your CD drive. If you’re using Windows, it should boot right up. Go ahead and follow the prompts to install the drivers for your photo slide scanner now. When it’s done, it’ll let you know.

Next, go ahead and plug the slide scanner into your computer. You may need to restart your system, but that depends on the operating system you’re using. Most newer Windows OSs don’t require you to do that. When you plug it in, the computer should recognize the scanner and allow you to start using it.

From here, simply click on the program that the installation CD installed on your system. Most photo slide scanners will come with a proprietary program that will serve as a way for you to import the photos to your hard drive.

After that, enjoy!

Please comment below should you have any questions.