Where can I find drivers for my old scanner?

Question

I have a storm flatbed scanner. I was using it with a system running WIN 98. When that computer died. I tried to install the scanner with my new system running XP. The scanner will not install and I can not find any xp drivers on the internet. It appears the company that manufactured the scanner has gone out of business. Do you know anyway to get it to work?

Thanks

Answer

This question was answered on February 4, 2003. Much of the information contained herein may have changed since posting.

Windows XP uses a completely different operating system than Windows 98 did. Unfortunately, when it first came out, users of certain peripheral devices were left high and dry while drivers were developed for the new OS.

Companies that develop and distribute hardware products generally also develop drivers. In your case, the company no longer exists.

There is some possibility that if the drivers disk that came with your scanner has drivers for Windows NT, there may be some degree of compatibility, but I wouldn't count on it.

I note scanners can now be purchased for as little as forty or fifty bucks. Considering the problem you have, and the time and expense one can sink into obsolete equipment, perhaps it's time to upgrade.

However, before you trash that old scanner, note that drivers for Storm scanners are listed at the following website:

www.scanner-drivers.com/companies/992.htm

Depending on the vintage of your scanner, perhaps the listed files will work.

RG

Author

Posted by Robert of Mesa Community College on February 4, 2003