[Question] How to tell if a scanner is dying?

[jwhouk]

I know it's like, "Who actually uses a scanner anymore?" but bear with me:

I got a Lexmark X2350 All-in-one printer/scanner a long time ago, mostly to replace the other piece of crap Lexmark products I owned (and the scanner that I no longer own that was so wonky under XP that I doubt it would have made it to Windows 7).

Recently, I've been having issues with this thing, mostly in the scanning department. Using TWAIN to scan a document into Paintshop Pro X4, the thing freezes up. I have to essentially unplug it, plug it back in, reconnect the USB and turn it on - and it finally recognizes the scanner and I can scan stuff again.

Now, normally I'd think this was an issue with PSP - and it might be, for all I know - but the thing is sounding a bit strange when I'm scanning stuff. Anyone else out there have any ideas on whether it's time to buy a new printer/scanner (if they actually exist out there)?

 

[PatrThom]

I'd recommend trying to scan some sort of registration test to make sure the stepper is still working, the sensors good, that sort of thing. Otherwise, if it's a scanner, and it's still working, then just keep using it until it stops*.

--Patrick
*Says the current owner of a UMAX Astra 1200S.

 

[Dave]

You can tell a scanner is dying when it gives a soliloquy or leaves a note.

 

[sixpackshaker]

Every time I have moved across town my scanners die. I'm afraid to jostle one now when I move it across the desk.

 

[strawman]

When it joins the dark side.

 

[GasBandit]

When its head explodes.

 

[Gryfter]

When its head explodes.

This was totally the answer I thought of when i saw the thread title.