Agfa Introduces Versatile SnapScan Color Scanner | |
-- Shows Bold Commitment to Consumer and Home Office Markets -- MacWorld Expo -- Boston, Massachussetts -- August 7, 1996 -- At MacWorld Expo this week, Agfa introduced SnapScan, the newest model in its line of personal flatbed color scanners. Aggressively priced, the Agfa SnapScan is positioned to appeal to today's personal computer user. Its exceptional speed and quality provide users with capabilities needed for a wide variety of home office applications. As a leader in image capture technology, Agfa expressed its interest in the growing home market. "Agfa is in the best position to apply its professional experience," said Per Save, Agfa worldwide marketing manager for image capture systems. "We understand the true demands of image capture; this is especially important for home or office applications where consumers want quality that's uncomplicated. SnapScan isn't just another 'low-end' scanner, it's a versatile tool with a range of features that lets users adjust to their level of experience. Home users get simplicity, functionality, and exceptional quality--all at a very attractive price." Designed for use with any PC or Macintosh, SnapScan's plug-and-play features include automatic color adjustment and contrast control. The scanner's optical resolution is 600 (v) x 300 (h) ppi, interpolated to 2400 ppi. SnapScan also provides OCR (Optical Character Recognition) capability which scans and converts hard-copy text into an editable format. It also includes a Copy and Fax Utility which turns a printer into a color copier and scans hard copy for transmission via computer fax-modem.
Versatile Color Tools Match User Experience With an easy-to-use, intuitive interface, FotoSnap software previews the image and automatically selects color, brightness, and contrast settings to match the original image. FotoLook gives more experienced users the freedom to manually adjust different scanner parameters. It offers a broad range of controls normally found only in professional scanners, such as batch scanning and descreening capabilities. It also has a density control system that automatically corrects shadows and highlight settings. FotoFlavor color correction software lets users easily and selectively adjust the color, contrast, and luminance of the original image. After scanning, the user selects one or more predefined color corrections or "flavors" such as brighter red, more brilliant gold, or greener grass; the effects can be viewed instantly and saved for future use.
Scanner Captures a Variety of Applications Agfa offers an optional transparency module for scanning transparent originals. Its high dynamic range allows users to batch scan a wide range of originals. And, a unique moving light source and diffuser deliver quality levels found only in higher priced units. The automatic document feeder, also optional, has a capacity of 60 pages. This plus the scanner's speed--previews in less than 10 seconds--make OCR and archival storage practical and cost efficient. Beginning this September, the company will sell the scanner through large electronics distributors, such as Computer 2000 and Ingram Micro. SnapScan will also be distributed through dealers and specialty retailers, department stores, and computer superstores--further confirmation of Agfa's commitment to extend its imaging expertise into the home market.
|