Questions
- Can I scan multiple documents and have them saved as separate files?
- How do I split a large scan job into individual documents?
- How does PaperCut know where to divide a multi-document scan?
- Does PaperCut automatically separate documents when I scan?
- Why did my scan arrive as one big PDF instead of separate files?
Environment
This article applies to all Bowdoin faculty, staff, and students scanning multiple documents in a single job using a PaperCut-enabled multi-function device (MFD) on campus. Document splitting is a global PaperCut setting - it is available automatically on most scan destinations without any configuration.
Resolution
PaperCut is configured to split scan jobs automatically when it detects a blank page. To separate multiple documents, place a blank page between each document before placing the stack in the feeder tray. PaperCut will detect each blank page, split the scan at that point, and deliver each section as a separate file to your chosen destination.
How blank page detection works: PaperCut treats a page as blank when 99.99995% of its surface is empty. A mostly-empty page with a faint mark or header may not be detected as blank. Use a clean, completely blank sheet of paper between documents to ensure reliable splitting.
Email destination does not support splitting. If you are scanning to email, documents are not automatically split - all pages will be delivered as a single attachment regardless of blank pages inserted. For multi-document jobs that need to arrive as separate files, scan to OneDrive instead. See How to scan to OneDrive from a PaperCut device in the Related Articles section.
If your department has configured a Teams or SharePoint folder as a scan destination, check with your department administrator - some departments disable document splitting for their specific destinations.
Additional Help
If you need further assistance, you have several options:
- Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
- Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
- In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
- Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.