LIDE 300 MAC OS cannot find scanner even when system finds it

Troubleshooting Scanner Detection Issues with Canon LIDE 300 on macOS 15.5 (M1 Mac Mini)

If you’ve recently connected a Canon LIDE 300 scanner to your Mac running macOS 15.5 on an M1 Mac Mini, you might encounter an unusual problem: the system recognizes the device, yet the Canon IJ Scan Utility Lite cannot locate or communicate with the scanner. This issue can be perplexing but is resolvable with systematic troubleshooting steps.

Understanding the Scenario

In this situation, the macOS system acknowledges the presence of the Canon LIDE 300 scanner in the “Printers & Scanners” section. You can perform basic scans directly through macOS or other native applications, confirming that the hardware connection is functional. However, when attempting to use the Canon IJ Scan Utility Lite software—Canon’s proprietary scanning application—it reports that it cannot find the scanner. Additionally, the Canon Quick Menu installed with the system appears to be tailored for AirPrint printers and scanners, offering limited functionality and unable to adjust scanning options.

Common Causes and Solutions

  1. Compatibility and Updates
    Ensure that both your macOS and Canon software are up to date. Canon periodically releases updates to improve compatibility with the latest macOS versions, especially Apple Silicon Macs like the M1 Mini. Visit the Canon support website to download the latest version of the IJ Scan Utility Lite compatible with macOS 15.5.

  2. Proper Installation
    Uninstall the existing Canon IJ Scan Utility Lite and reinstall it following the official instructions. Sometimes, residual files or incomplete installations can interfere with scanner detection. Use dedicated uninstallation tools or follow Canon’s recommended procedures to ensure a clean removal.

  3. Driver Compatibility
    Verify that the drivers installed are designed for your macOS version and hardware architecture. For M1 Macs, Rosetta 2 may be required to run certain utilities, or compatible ARM-native software should be used.

  4. Network vs. Direct Connection
    Although the scanner is detected as a device, confirm whether it is connected via USB or network. For best results with Canon scanners, a direct USB connection is recommended. If connected over Wi-Fi, ensure that network settings permit scanner detection and communication.

  5. Accessing the Correct Software
    The Canon Quick Menu might be specific to AirPrint-compatible devices, limiting its functionality for your USB-connected scanner. Focus on using the IJ Scan Utility Lite for advanced features, ensuring it is configured correctly.

  6. Resetting and Reconfiguring
    Sometimes

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