Fix Automatic Double-Sided Scanning Option Missing in Adobe Acrobat
Question details
The automatic double-sided scanning prompt does not appear in Adobe Acrobat Pro DC for black-and-white documents.

- Product
- Adobe Acrobat Pro DC
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to automatically scan a double-sided black-and-white document.
- Observed behavior
- The prompt for automatic double-sided scanning appears for color documents but is missing for black-and-white scans, requiring manual configuration via Custom Scan and TWAIN settings.
Ensure that your physical scanner hardware supports automatic duplex (double-sided) scanning and that it is connected securely to your computer.
Use Custom Scan and Configure TWAIN Settings
Bypass the default preset limitations in Acrobat by using the Custom Scan feature to manually force double-sided scanning through your scanner's native interface.
Adobe Acrobat uses default presets that may hide the duplex prompt depending on the selected color mode. By routing the scan through the TWAIN driver, you regain full control over hardware features.
In Adobe Acrobat, navigate to Tools > Create PDF > Scanner and choose 'Custom Scan' from the available options.
Under the Scanner dropdown menu, ensure your scanner's TWAIN driver is selected rather than the basic WIA driver.
Click the 'Options' button to open your scanner's native manufacturer interface.
Locate the duplex or double-sided scanning toggle within the TWAIN interface, set it to 'Both Sides', and proceed with your scan.

Update or Reinstall Scanner Drivers
Outdated or incompatible drivers can prevent Acrobat from recognizing your scanner's duplex capabilities, limiting you to single-sided scanning.
Manage and Edit Scanned PDFs Seamlessly with WPS Office
Struggling with complicated PDF scanning and editing settings? Try WPS Office. It is a lightweight, all-in-one suite that serves as a powerful alternative to Microsoft Office, featuring a robust built-in PDF editor to manage your scanned documents with ease.
- 1. Download and Install: Visit the official WPS website and click 'Download WPS Office Free' to get the installer.
- 2. Open Your Document: Launch WPS Office and open your scanned PDF or any Microsoft Office file.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the duplex scanning prompt appear for color documents but not black and white?
Adobe Acrobat uses specific default presets for different color modes. The black-and-white preset may have the automatic duplex prompt disabled by default, requiring you to use the Custom Scan option to access your scanner's native TWAIN settings.
What is the difference between TWAIN and WIA scanner drivers in Acrobat?
TWAIN drivers provide a detailed interface with advanced scanning options, including manual duplex control and resolution adjustments. WIA is a basic driver built into Windows that often lacks advanced hardware settings like double-sided scanning.
Can I save my Custom Scan settings as a new preset in Acrobat?
Yes. Once you configure your Custom Scan settings to use the TWAIN driver with double-sided scanning, you can click the gear icon in the Scan dialog to save it as a custom preset for future black-and-white scans.




