The differing functions of the flatbed and film scanners

Flatbed and film scanners

The flatbed scanner scans the light reflected from a document or photo placed on the flatbed. It is the most popular type of scanner with many applications, and varies in size from A4 to A3. The low-priced models are very popular, while the highly sophisticated ones are more expensive.

The film scanner scans the light passing through a strip of 35 mm film, either positive or negative. Because it directly scans the light passing through the film, the color fidelity of the scanned image is excellent. It is limited to scanning film.

The choice of scanner depends on the nature of the item to be scanned. However, a transparency unit can be fitted to a flatbed scanner allowing it to scan film. A digital camera can also be used for making copies. In other words, there are several ways to make copies.

When using either a film scanner or flatbed scanner, set the scanning resolution and size at the base values, or up to twice those values. It is best to set the resolution and size as high and large as feasible because this will provide you with greater options for modifying the copy; it is a simple process to reduce the resolution and size of the scanned image later, if necessary.

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