How does Windows XP access imaging devices?



With the introduction of Windows XP, a new method was created for the operating system to communicate to scanners, digital cameras, and other image-based devices. What common method does Windows use to communicate and control these devices?

A) WIA

B) Postscript

C) TWAIN

D) PCL


The answer: A) WIA

Windows Image Acquisition (WIA) was introduced in Windows XP to create a standard way for the operating system to communicate to the plethora of new imaging technologies. With WIA, every imaging device could be controlled and managed through a single standard interface. This avoided the confusion of having a different operating system interface for every imaging device.

The incorrect answers:
B) Postscript
Postscript is a common printer language.

C) TWAIN
Technology Without An Interesting Name (TWAIN) was one of the original scanner interfaces for operating systems, and you can still find many devices using TWAIN to communicate to the operating system.

D) PCL
Printer Command Language (PCL) is a printer language created by Hewlett-Packard.

Want to know more? Watch “Selecting and Installing Printers and Scanners.”

As a CompTIA A+ certified professional, you’ll often be asked to research specifications and make recommendations for new printers and scanners. In this video, we’ll step through the entire process of planning, installing, and upgrading a printer or scanner in your organization.