Body
Questions
- How do I scan a document in color?
- Can I scan to email in color from a campus printer?
- How do I change the scan color mode on a PaperCut device?
- Why is my scan coming out in black and white when I want color?
- Where is the color setting when scanning with PaperCut?
Environment
This article applies to all Bowdoin faculty, staff, and students scanning documents using a PaperCut-enabled multi-function device (MFD) on campus. The steps below apply regardless of scan destination — email, OneDrive, or any other configured location.
Resolution
Default scan setting: PaperCut scans in black and white by default to support document accessibility and reduce file sizes. You must change the color mode manually each time you want to scan in color.
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Go to a PaperCut-enabled MFD and sign in. Tap your Bowdoin OneCard ID on the card reader, or enter your Bowdoin username and password on the touch screen.
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Tap Scan on the main PaperCut screen, then select your scan destination — for example, Scan to My Email.
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Before placing your document, tap Settings. Find the Color Mode setting and change it from B & W or Auto to Color. Adjust any other settings you need, such as resolution or file format.

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Place your document face-up in the feeder tray for multi-page documents, or face-down on the scanner glass for a single page.
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Tap Start Scanning. The document will be scanned in color and sent to your selected destination.
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When finished, tap Log Out on the screen.
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.