Cannot see my scanners in PS Elements 2026

I use “scanspeeder pro” I stopped about 10 years ago trying to use the scanner directly from within Photoshop elements.   I scan my stuff using my software then open it it up in photoshop elements- never an issue, never any lost time “trying to figure it out”-- the hassle, for me anyway, simply is not worth it.


Photoshop Elements often struggles to detect scanners due to 64-bit compatibility issues with older TWAIN drivers, outdated scanner software, or conflicts within the Windows Image Acquisition (WIA) service. Resolving this usually requires updating scanner drivers, resetting preferences, or ensuring the scanner is properly connected and recognized by the OS. 

Adobe +4

Here are the primary reasons and fixes for scanner detection issues:

• TWAIN Driver Incompatibility (64-bit issues): Modern versions of Photoshop Elements (2018 and later) run in 64-bit mode. If your scanner manufacturer has not released 64-bit drivers, or if the TWAIN plug-in is outdated, Elements cannot communicate with the device.
• WIA Service Errors (Windows): The Windows Image Acquisition (WIA) service, which helps programs talk to scanners, might be disabled or malfunctioning.
• Outdated/Corrupt Drivers: Even if a driver is installed, it may be out of date. Reinstalling the driver from the manufacturer's website is often necessary.
• Corrupted Preferences: Photoshop Elements' preference file may be corrupted, causing it to fail to recognize hardware.
• Software Conflict: Other applications or security software might be blocking the connection. 

   

  Adobe +4

How to Fix Scanning Issues:

1. Reset Preferences: Launch Photoshop Elements while holding down the Shift key (or Ctrl+Alt+Shift on some versions) to reset preferences to default.
2. Update/Reinstall Drivers: Download and install the latest 64-bit driver for your scanner from the manufacturer’s site.
3. Check WIA Service (Windows): Ensure the WIA service is running by opening services.msc and setting the Windows Image Acquisition service to "Automatic".
4. Use WIA Support: In File > Import, choose "WIA Support" instead of the TWAIN driver if available.
5. Scan Outside Elements: As a workaround, scan the image using your scanner's native software (e.g., Canon IJ Scan Utility) and open the saved file in Elements