-The main problem with scanners is usually the parallel port itself. If you do not have the port configured correctly in the BIOS you can run into problems scanning. Another problem is simply the software. Some of the software bundles are a little less than desirable. If so try uninstalling software and reinstalling it again. This can help any corrupted files and drivers. I will explain how to do both below.
BIOS
-Take a peek into your BIOS. This is done usually by hitting the delete key while boot up. Make sure and hit it while the memory is counting so not to make it to windows. When in BIOS look at some of your system resources for the parallel port. You may want to set this port for bi-directional. This can help with your problems. Also note that trying to use the printer and scanner at the same time will not work. If this seems to be a problem get a parallel switch. This can be found at Wal-Mart for about 20.00. Look for the Belkin brand.
Uninstall and Install
-Now if you want to try re-installing the software you can do it in two ways. You can uninstall the old software or simply go through the scanners setup program again. This is preferred so not to lose valuable data you may have. Make sure your scanners software is in the CD-Drive prior to installing.
Go to start button and click settings
click control panel
click add/remove programs
choose scanner software in list to remove or choose install at top of display to reinstall scanner software
simply choose the D:\ or CD-ROM drive and hit next
this will usually bring up a setup.exe
install program
if asked to reboot, do so.
-If you couldn't get it to work this way you can try it manually by using the Run command under the start button. If still lost on this one refer to the documentation of scanner.
-For more information on installing software of device drivers refer here.
