Scanner Software

[DMFTodd]

My very old scanner has very old software that came with it. Is there such a thing as "generic" scanner software that will work with any old scanner?

The main problem with the software is that it will only let you select a rectangular portion of what you scanned. So if you can a monster, block it, and print it to show the players; you end up with text around. Now I could scan, save the square, open it in Paintbrush, erasea text, resave, print. But that seems like too much work. I'm thinking there's better scanning software that will let me select an odd-shaped area and just print it.

 

[MythosaAkira]

Quite possibly, if the scanner is TWAIN-compliant, but I don't know enough about the technical details of scanners to be sure.

If you wanted to replace your scanner, you can get a decent flatbed for around $80 or less.

 

[Cthulhu's Librarian]

Like MythosaAkira said, if it's TWAIN compliant, then almost any imaging software should allow you to use the scanner. Also, check to make sure you have the most recent drivers for your scanner. Pick up a copy of Photoshop LE, or better yet, get GIMP (it's free, and open source). You can use either of them to import from your scanner, as long as your driver is current. Or watch for sales on scanners at Staples, Office Depot, or on Amazon. You can get decent one's on sale (and often with a rebate on top of the sale price) for very cheap.

An interesting fact that I find amusing:
TWAIN stands for "Technology Without An Interesting Name". Seriously. Must have been some pretty boring guys working on that standard when they came up with the name...