Week 6: Clear

Computer Hardware: Scanners

"Hardware" is an umbrella term for all the different parts and processes that make up computer systems. One ordinary device presented new and relevant information to me as somewhat of a "casual" computer user.

What I found to be most interesting were the different types of scanners and their uses, including some that may surprise you.

Document Scanner: a basic device that most users are comfortable with using to input images from paper documents, printed photos, photo negatives and more.

• Flatbed with optional document feeder. Also known as "desktop scanner," is fast, efficient, able to scan multiple items automatically without pause in between, self-feeds. Highest resolution without interpolation that can be achieved is ~5,000 dpi and with interpolation, can reach 11,000 dpi (International Paper Knowledge Center)
• Handheld . Compact, travel-size, one sheet scanning at a time, easy upkeep. Also known as "half-page scanners," are mostly useful for small photo scanning as they can only scan about 2-5 inches at a time. Least expensive type of scanner (International Paper)

Film Scanner: aka "slide scanners", Film scanners are small desktop scanners used to scan 35mm film and slides. Some of film/slide scanners include an APS (Advanced Photo System) film adapter for use with the APS film format.

• Slides usually are higher quality than prints or digital formats and produce a higher quality scan. Slides are brighter than prints and have a higher dynamic range. Many slide scanners have (native) resolutions in the 5,000-6,000 ppi range and can be very expensive to purchase (International Paper).
• Automatically corrects old film defects and errors.

Bar Code Scanner: used for data input exported from scanner to the PC then to an inventory database. Also known as a "bar code reader," it reads printed bar codes used to manage and track items, like in retail businesses (Topbits)

• Fixed position: used by distributors and manufacturers
• Handheld: used by cashiers and clerks at checkout counters
• Stationary: mounted scanner used by stores with self-checkouts
• Technology used in bar code scanners: video cameras, laser scanners, LED scanners (Topbits).

RFID Reader: Radio Frequency Identification is proximity-based (no need for direct contact) and is more costly per item scanned than bar codes.

• Used for SunPass, library materials and Disney World parades
• To learn more about RFID, visit the RFID Journal-an entire Web publication on the topic including technology news, features, and expert discussion.

Drum Scanner: one not discussed in class, also known as a "rotary scanner," scans thin, flexible images that are mounted on a rotating drum. They are very large and offer high-quality scans, with a 12,000 dpi without interpolation. They're also very expensive, ranging from $25,000-several hundred thousand dollars (International Paper).

Now you're an expert at scanners and should be able to choose the correct scanner for any type of use!