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General discussion

Want to help me select a flatbed scanner?

by RalphDV Mar 1, 2009 3:59AM PST

I have a ton of prints that I want to get digitized and I'm looking for a good scanner to do the job. My most desired features are:

Sharp clean scan output, the higher the resolution the better.

Reliable.

Mostly automatic but with manual capability.

Friendly software.

Ability to scan text documents.

Cost no more than $200.

Blazing fast scans not necessary but I don't want something painfully slow.

I've researched scanners and I'm leaning toward the Canon 8800F. A good choice or should I look at something else? Also, does anyone know at what point in the year most manufacturers introduce their latest scanners? If the 8800F is close to being discontinued for a similar but better model I would like to wait to see what Canon offers.

Regardless of brand are there any pitfalls or specific quirks I should watch out for? FYI, I'm using a PC with Windows XP and do my image post post processing with PS Elements 7.

I appreciate any help or suggestions!

Discussion is locked

4 Posts
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Reliable is not in consumer machines.
by r. proffitt Forum moderator Mar 1, 2009 4:15AM PST

These are designed for 5 to many less years of use. And at under 200 you have moved right into consumer grade gear.

Are you that sure of your specs that you can't use that Canon?
Bob

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Scanner
by RalphDV Mar 1, 2009 4:43AM PST

"Are you that sure of your specs that you can't use that Canon?"

I'm not sure I understand your question or point.

I've previously owned two scanners, an HP and a Visoneer, and longevity is not an adjective I would use to describe either one. I realize scanners are notorious for their relative short lives but since I don't really need something above consumer grade I'm prepared to accept that my choice won't outlive me and most of the time I feel as if I'm ready to kick the bucket at any time.

Spec-wise I'd still like to keep the price at $200 or less but beyond that I'll just be happy if I can find a scanner that gives good sharp scans and will be reliable enough to do 3000-5000 scans.

Just out of curiosity, at what price point do you believe one leaves the consumer grade and enters prosumer or pro grade?

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For example.
by r. proffitt Forum moderator Mar 1, 2009 5:14AM PST

At one job we used this -> http://www.fujitsu.com/us/services/computing/peripherals/scanners/

Look at those Workgroup and higher model scanners. These are very well built and do last many years.

However the price is above 1K.

Back to your choice. It's a fine one for consumer use and should survive that many scans but to be sure, get them done within the warranty period.
Bob

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Thank you
by RalphDV Mar 4, 2009 10:17AM PST

Bob, thank you for your input and opinions. I appreciate your help.

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