How to Upload Pictures to the Computer From a Scanner

By Anthony Diaz de la Vega

Computer scanners give you the freedom to upload practically any picture to your computer.
i copy machine image by Mat Hayward from Fotolia.com

Scanner provide a simple and efficient way to digitize hard copies of photos and pictures and upload them to your computer's hard drive. Having high-quality digital copies of your most important photos will provide a safety net in case any of your pictures are damaged or destroyed. Keep all of your uploaded photos in an easily identifiable folder and make sure you give them recognizable file names that are descriptive of the photograph.

Install any drivers or programs on your computer that are required to operate your scanner. Most scanners will come with an installation CD or DVD that has the required software; read the instruction manual thoroughly and follow the instructions included.

Connect the scanner to your computer using the cord included with your scanner. Usually, this will be either a USB cord or 30-pin connector (usually for older computers made prior to 2000). Plug in the cord; your computer will indicate that it has been properly connected with a small message or dialogue box.

Open your scanner's software on the computer. Depending on the model of scanner you have and the program it uses, the exact method of starting your scanner up and uploading photos will differ slightly, but follow the instruction manual to turn it on. Select "File" and pick the "Scan new item" option. Choose your desired folder for saving pictures once the program prompts you to choose a directory.

Carefully place the photo to be scanned facedown on the scanner's glass faceplate. Close the lid slowly. Press the scan button either on the scanner or in your computer's software. Be careful not to move or jostle your desk or scanner in any way while the picture is being scanned, as this may result in defects. Once the scan is done, open your scanner's lid and remove the picture. Repeat the process for each subsequent photo.

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