A3 Flatbed Scanners - What do you use?

​Hi All,

I'm currently working in a private archive and researching A3 Flatbed Scanners for use until a larger BookEye type is purchased in the (far) future.

I have used an Epsom in an interstate State Government Archive and quite frankly with the research I have been doing I am leaning towards one of those, as it is also a good all rounder.

Some of the criteria I have been looking for include:

  • High optical density – for Web readiness
  • Pixel depth
  • Resolution
  • Zoom quality - must be high
  • Manual and auto crop
  • Auto/manual focus & dust removal etc…
  • Transparency option
  • Life expectancy
  • Good after service care & warranty

What I would I'd like to hear back from you all is:

  • What specs you looked for?
  • What do you use and why?
  • Are there any to steer away from?
  • Product support and or warranty problems you may have encountered

​Looking forward to your input,

Christine​

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Replies

  • Thanks Tara,

    Good to hear what other opinions are. will keep in mind your findings :)

  • Hi Christine,

    I too work at a State Government Archive we use the Epson 11000XL (2400ppi optical resolution). It produces good results and is supported by both silverfast and the simple to use Epson professional software. Auto-cropping works well for negatives and slides.

    Prior to this we used the Microtek 3200 XL, the main limitation here is the lack of space between the transparency adaptor and flatbed which proves somewhat problematic for thicker material i.e. glass negatives. Having said that you can wedge it open and still obtain reasonable results, we have successfully scanned many plates for large scale exhibition reproduction. My other criticism is that the negative holders could be stronger. Auto-cropping is not possible but this may be resolved with a software update.

    Hope this helps,

    Tara

  • Hi Christine,

    I looked at an A3 Epson scanner a few years ago and found the resolution was interpolated not a true optical resolution. If anyone can advise if this has changed?  Otherwise I thought it looked a good option for glass plates.

    Regards

    Lee.

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