Scanner Buying Guide

Versatile, affordable and easy to use, scanners enable images and text to be transferred onto a home computer, where they can be stored and reproduced electronically. You will find several different types of scanner available to buy online, and it can be confusing trying to find the model that will suit your needs. Here are some useful hints and tips to help you when you're choosing a scanner.

How to Choose a Scanner: Introduction

Scanners work on the same principle as a photocopier, using a row of light-sensitive sensors to scan printed documents. The scanned image is then converted into data, so that the computer can understand and store it.

By capturing the image in a digital format, the computer data can be viewed, adjusted and processed in a wide range of ways for creative, professional and organisational purposes.

One of the main selling points for scanners is the OCR (Optical Character Recognition) function. OCR works by reading printed words and storing it straight to a word processing document, ready for editing or printing. OCR is especially useful for convenient and safe storage of letters and bank statements.

Scanners are usually of a slim line design and come in a range of sizes, from A4 upwards. Generally the more capabilities and features on a scanner, the more you will pay, so it's important to understand the different features available on scanners, in order to find a model that will suit your needs.

Features to Look for When You Buy a Scanner

To help you to decide what you want from your scanner, here are some of the main features and functions found on scanners:

Memory - When a scanner transfers an image or text, the computer holds the data in its RAM memory. Make sure your computer has enough RAM memory to cope with the size of the documents you will be scanning, as some documents can be as large as 70MB!
Scan area - The scan area determines the size of the documents the scanner can copy. Most scanners sold are A4, but scanners able to use larger paper sizes are also available.
Transparency function - For scanning transparent items, including negatives and slides.
Computer software - Scanners usually come with at least some basic software to enable your computer to handle the scanned documents. This software can include image editing and enhancement, as well as an OCR programme for text reading and storing data as word processor documents.

Other Points to Consider When Choosing a Scanner

Other points to consider when buying a scanner include:

Resolution - The resolution of a scanner is determined by how many pixels it can read. High-resolution images are sharper, and are ideal for copying photographs and artwork. But higher resolution images will take up more space on your computer, and some 'high-res' scanners are more expensive. For reasonable quality scanning, try looking for a scanner with a resolution of at least 2400 x 4800 dpi (dots per inch.)
Connections - Connections between scanner and computer vary. Although most scanners use a USB connection, make sure your computer has the necessary ports to connect with the scanner you choose.
Bit depth - Bit depth determines the colour and detail level of scanned documents. The higher the bit depth, the better the scanner will be able to read the number, and different shades, of colour. Look out for a scanner of at least 48 bits for reasonable quality scanning.

Do I Need to Buy an Extended Scanner Warranty?

A good quality scanner should last for years, but it is always advisable to ensure it comes with a warranty, for extra peace of mind. A warranty ensures repairs or replacements under certain conditions, and although most scanners come with a reasonable warranty, you can pay extra for an extended one.

It's a good idea to set a limit on the amount of money that you are prepared to spend on a new scanner. Try not to be persuaded into spending more money for features you won't need or use. By shopping around online, compare prices between different retailers and taking advantage of special offers and discounts, you might get a better model of scanner than your budget would normally allow.