Use and Maintenance of Scanners

(1) Use transparent sheet fittings to obtain the best scanning effect

Many flatbed scanners are equipped with transparency fittings placed at the top of the scanner bed. In order to obtain the best scanning of transparent films or slides, remove the pictures from the rack and slide mounting rack and mount them on the glass scanning bed with the reverse side facing down (the reverse side is usually a rough surface). Cut out the mask with black paper and cover the entire scanning bed except where the manuscript is set. This will reduce glare and overexposure during scanning. Similarly, when scanning a three-dimensional object, cover the lid of the scanner with an object of a color that contrasts strongly with the object you are scanning. This will help you to select it more easily with PhotoshopColorRange.

(2) Maximize that color gamut of the scanned image

In order to make full use of the 30-bit or 36-bit scanner to increase the color range, the scanner software (such as FotoTune of Agfa) or other company's software should be used to adjust the color as much as possible. Because Photoshop software is limited to 24-bit images, images may be inserted with the widest color gamut range.

(3) Scan printing material by using non-screen printing technology

When scanning printing material, there will be netting in the continuous tone of the image. If the scanner does not have a screen removal function, try to find the resolution that minimizes the screen size. Often, the same or double resolution as the screen line of printing material may work. Once you get a fairly good scan, use Gaussian Blur filter (with a set of less than 1 pixel) of Photoshop to slightly soften the mesh until you cannot see it. Then use Unsharp Mask to sharpen the image back. Scanning can also be improved by slightly rotating the image because the continuously adjusted screen angle is changed. For black-and-white images, the rotation of 45 degrees is just right. For CMYK images, experiments will be required.

Scanners, including smart book scanner and high speed ocr scanner, are very convenient for us. So, it is necessary to know how to maintain them.

1. Protect the optical components

In the process of scanning images, the scanner converts analog signals into digital signals through a component called a photoelectric converter, which is then sent to the computer. This photoelectric conversion setting is very delicate, and the position of the optical lens or reflective lens has a great influence on the scanning quality. Therefore, in the process of work, do not casually change the position of these optical devices, and at the same time try to avoid vibration or tilt to the scanner. When the scanner fails, do not dismantle and repair it without authorization, but send it to the manufacturer or the designated maintenance station. In addition, when transporting the scanner, be sure to lock the safety lock on the back of the scanner to avoid changing the position of the optical accessories.

2. Keep regular cleaning

The scanner can be said to be a kind of delicate equipment, which must be carefully cleaned. If dust or other impurities fall on the glass plate, reflector, or lens in the scanner, the reflected light of the scanner will be weakened, thus affecting the scanning quality of the picture. Therefore, the scanner must be used in a dust-free or less dust environment. After using it, the scanner must be covered with a dust cover to prevent more dust. When it is not used for a long time, it should be cleaned regularly. When cleaning, you can wipe the dust off the shell with a soft cloth, and then carefully clean it with detergent and water. Then the glass plate is cleaned. Since the cleanness of the panel directly affects the scanning quality of the image, when cleaning the panel, first wipe it with glass cleaner, then wipe it with a soft dry cloth.