Wide Format Scanners

Originally designed for the blueprint market, these machines have become more sophisticated and cost-effective. In fact, with more precise roller mechanisms and high-quality CCD arrays and color management, these machines can scan and print existing large format graphics quickly, efficiently and profitably. Of course, we couldn’t possibly run all the specs we found, so the following list provides a foundation to start your investigation.

Colortrac scanners

www.action-imaging.com

Colortrac 3640e – 5480e scanners provide a complete scanning solution whether it is maps, line drawings, color photographs or 12mm thick display boards. The Colortrac scanners are available in a range of four carefully selected scan widths (36", 42", 48", 54") and offer three optical resolution options (1200/1800/2400 dpi), providing good value for money. The price range runs between $20 to $41 thousand dollars.

Contex Scanning Technology

www.contex.com

Contex Scanning Technology is the leading manufacturer of wide-format color and monochrome scanners and an innovative developer of advanced scan and copy software for these products. Here are two of their most popular wide-format scanners.

Chroma XL 42" Color Scanner

The scanner’s 42” imaging area handles large color posters, architectural sketches, detailed maps, drawings and fine art at very high speeds. High resolutions (true 508 dpi optical resolution), easy maintenance, user replaceable parts and Automatic Thickness Adjustment Control are all combined making it the perfect device for effective and reliable high-production scanning. These state of the art scanners offer unlimited possibilities for professional imaging services, copy service providers, POP/Exhibit/Display companies, graphic professionals, Mapping, Architect and Engineer offices. Price range is around $30,500.

Crystal XL 42" Color Scanner

The Contex Crystal XL 42” scanners are designed to give professionals the best in very high speed monochrome scanning with the additional option of quality color scanning for special jobs. The scanner’s 42” imaging area handles large E-size/A0 engineering drawings, architectural sketches, blueprints, sepias, detailed maps, drawings and large color posters. High resolutions (true 508 dpi optical resolution), easy maintenance, user replaceable parts and Automatic Thickness Adjustment Control are some of the features. With highly fast and effective monochrome scanning and the option to scan in perfect color, these devices offer a cost-effective solution for CAD, AEC and GIS professionals. Price range is around $18,500.

Cruse Digital Equipment

www.crusedigital.com

Cruse Synchron Table Scanners where awarded the “Top 50 Products of 2003” List. Cruse scanners are in place at such locations as the Beethoven Museum; the Vatican’s Secret Archives; NASA’s Johnson Space Center; and industry-leading photo, repro and fine art customers. Prices range from $53 to $172 thousand.

Cruse Professional Scanners

Ranging from the CS 130P (which accepts originals up to 30"x42") to the CS 175P (which accepts originals as large as 40"x60"), Cruse Pro scanners are designed with the needs of the photo lab and reprographic shop in mind. Cruse Pro scanners can be equipped with either a 275 MB (3×8 bit) head or a 450 MB (3×8 bit) head. A wide range of optional accessories allows users to scan books, transparencies or magazines. The Cruse Pro scanners represent the best value in a full-function large format scanning system.

Synchron Table Scanners

Featuring a fixed light source and scan head, coupled with a moving vacuum table, the Synchron Table scanners feature unmatched edge-to-edge sharpness. With maximum flexibility of lighting, this scanner is ideal for fine art and decor imaging. Some of the outstanding features include: 36"x48" vacuum table, Autofocus, 36 bit color, 10000 x 13000 pixels Maximum resolution.

Oc8E Color Scanners

www.oceusa.com

Oce offers a great solution for large format color scanning, viewing, copying and archiving featuring a 50-800 dpi scanning resolution, and a 36 bit color capture. Two models are available, the CS4040 for scanning up to 40" wide and the CS4050 for scanning up to 50" wide. Both use a different technology that makes it the fastest scanner in its product range, with a speed up to 2.6" per second. Color feature extraction, black and white 2D adaptive threshold mode, on-board real time color correction, 2-D color sharpening and softening and a SCSI interface are some of the advanced technologies that contribute to the speed. Prices range from $15,800 to $35,600.