I have a compaq presario computer( MV520) and windows 98 with an Artec
AS6E scanner (viewstation). When I try to scan an image a dialogue box
tells me that I am not scanning at the optimum speed and to consult my
manual on how to change from I/O to EPP in BIOs for better speed. I
don't have a manual and I don't understand the jargon . Can you tell
me how I can speed up the scan time amd make the most of my scanner?

Dear lish,

The message you refer to indicates that your computer’s BIOS - the
"basic software" controlling the machine’s elementary functions - is
using the standard settings for the parallel port. By that port, your
scanner is connected to the PC since the Artec AS6E definitely is a
parallel port scanner. Changing the port’s settings to EPP, which is
the enhanced mode, will increase scanning speed noticeably. To do so,
please follow these steps:

- Start your computer.

- During startup, watch out for a message that tells you to press
[Delete] or [F2] (very rarely also other keys or combinations) to
enter setup. This message might pass quite fast, so this could take
some trials.

- You have entered the BIOS setup. It is advisable to be very careful
here and to not change anything but the parallel port settings. Please
remember that this is an old-fashioned DOS-menu with no mouse support;
you will have to use your keyboard. Use the cursor keys for navigating
and [Enter] to enter a menu. For changing settings, use either [Scroll
Up] and [Scroll Down] or also [Enter]. Sometimes, you find a short
instruction manual on this within the BIOS setup.

- What your BIOS menu exactly looks like depends on the BIOS chip
implemented in your computer. Maybe you will have to search a bit (if
there is a section named Integrated Peripherals, look there first),
but you will doubtlessly find the option for changing the parallel
port’s settings after only a short time.

- Now you can change from Standard to Enhanced (EPP). Confirm the
changes of the BIOS settings as requested by the program. After doing
so, your scanner’s speed should have increased.

You can also have a look at the description of this process here:
http://www.pcanswers.co.uk/asktheExperts/detail.asp?id=27235

Search terms used:
"i/o to epp" scanner:
://www.google.de/search?hl=de&ie=UTF8&oe=UTF8&newwindow=1&q=%22i%2Fo+to+epp%22+scanner&meta=

Hope this helps!
Regards,
Scriptor

Hi Lish!

You mentioned that you don't have the manual that came with your
scanner.  On the Artec site it states that the manual is located on
the installation CD, but you can download a copy in PDF format
directly from their site using the following link: 
http://www.artecusa.com/User_manuals/as6e-eng.pdf

I also found their FAQ's to be very helpful.  They even mentioned the
specific problem that you are having (slow scanning)and have a lot of
other helpful information up for grabs.
http://www.artecusa.com/FAQ-scanner.htm

Good luck and happy scanning!

csigirl

Hi, Lish!

One further piece of input to supplement what scriptor wrote.  With
Compaq Presarios, you wouldn't necessarily get a clear text message
telling you to press a given key to get into the BIOS setting mode. 
Usually, with a Presario, the cursor changes from a flashing underline
to a small flashing square for about a slow three or four count. 
That's when you can press a key and get into your settings. 
Unfortunately, after sitting here racking my brain, I can't remember
what the actual key is (it's been a couple of years since I sold
those)but it should be in your manual.

Hi Lish!

You mentioned that you don't have the manual that came with your
scanner.  On the Artec site it states that the manual is located on
the installation CD, but you can download a copy in PDF format
directly from their site using the following link: 
http://www.artecusa.com/User_manuals/as6e-eng.pdf

I also found their FAQ's to be very helpful.  They even mentioned the
specific problem that you are having (slow scanning)and have a lot of
other helpful information up for grabs.
http://www.artecusa.com/FAQ-scanner.htm

Good luck and happy scanning!

csigirl

The Esc key is the one for all the Compaqs I've used. Then F10.