Is this a relatively old scanner, I mean date of
dsign/manufacture is pre-XP?
If so, its intallation software may be designed for
windows 98/ME, not 2000/XP. Check for an XP-compatible
version of the software on the manufacture's website.
While there, also check whether this scanner is even
supported under XP.
For perspective, in the case of my HP 6200C I had to get a
major download (about 47 Meg) from HP.
If the scanner is really old, say windows 95 vintage, the
maker may have chosen not to support it under XP.
However, note that XP has some intrinsic ability to handle
scanners and cameras. When in doubt, try just plugging it
in (I assume USB?) and see whether XP recognizes it. If
does, it will load appropriate drivers. These may
be "generic" drivers, so they may not support all
options. The same is true of older printer.