How to Scan a Document on a Multi-Function Printer

A multi-function printer with a scanner makes backing up your important documents easy. The scanner function of the printer allows you to translate a paper document like a receipt or title deed into an electronic copy that is stored on your computer. Once you have an electronic copy of your document, you can process and manipulate the document as you would any other electronic file. Follow these steps to scan a document on a multi-function printer:

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer
• Multi-function printer

1. Connect your multi-function printer and computer. Power them up.

2. Select the side of the document you are going to scan. Give the document a once-over, checking for any flaws that you do not want transferred into electronic form.

3. Open the printer’s lid. Place the side of the document you want scanned face-down on the glass plate of your multi-function printer’s scanning bed. Align the document to your satisfaction.

4. Close the printer’s lid carefully. You may want to weigh the document down with another sheet of paper to prevent it from shifting.

5. Choose an appropriate scan resolution. You may have to do this using the controls of your printer or on the computer, depending on the model and software.

6. Press the scan button to start the process. This can be done on the printer itself or on the computer.

7. Preview the scan on your computer monitor. You should be able to make minor changes to the scanned image if needed.

8. Save the scanned image if you are satisfied with the result. Try again if you are not satisfied.

Tips & Warnings

• Scanning documents at high resolution and low data compression will produce the best image quality at the cost of file size.
• Not happy with a scan? Re-check the alignment of the document and try it again. Discard the duds when you get a scan that works for you.
• Using harsh cleaning chemicals such as acetone or benzene can damage your multi-function printer. Abrasive cleaners are also not good on the machine, particularly the glass surface of the scanning bed.