What determines the cut-off point between high-resolution graphics and other graphics? I plan to produce small runs of brochures on an Epson Color Stylus using my own 100mm by 150mm colour photographs. I would prefer the size and convenience of a sheet feed scanner, but wonder if I need the higher resolution of a flatbed type, or the Mustek sheet feeder?
- Charles Adams
Your Color Stylus printer is capable of 720dpi on coated paper or 300dpi on normal paper. Most sheet feed scanners are only going to do 8-bit (256 colour) at 400dpi maximum. While this is probably adequate, you will run into problems if you are enlarging your scanned images. Also 8-bit colour is a long way from true colour, which can go as high as 24-bits.
Because you are purchasing a scanner specifically for graphics, my advice is to bite the bullet and buy a low/mid-range flatbed. It's big and clumsy but you will be happier with your choice in the long term.
If you visit a PC dealer that really wants to help you make the right decision, you should be able to get them to let you make a scan on each unit you are considering, then take them home on disk and see which one gives you the printed performance that you are happy with. You should find the dealer co-operative if they are confident that you really will buy the scanner from them.
- Ian Yates
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Category: Hardware
Issue: Oct 1996
Pages: 168
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Good resolutions