Scanner 175


Scanners


A desktop scanner (flatbed scanner) is made of a glass pane, under which a very bright light (usually xenon or cold cathode fluorescent) illuminates the pane and a moving charge-coupled device.

Color scanners usually consist of three rows of charge-coupled device elements with red, green, and blue filters. Then, the media to be scanned (photos, documents, etc.) are placed face-down on the glass pane. The light comes on, and the charge-coupled device and light source move across the pane, "scanning" the entire area.

An image of the media is then visible to the charge-coupled device because of reflected light. Transparent images (film negatives) will not be visible, and require special accessories or dedicated models (film scanners) that illuminate media from the upper side. Today's scanners are generally high-quality, inexpensive, and compact. For more information on scanners, please check out the articles below.

Articles

Scanner Terms

Scanners are fun, innovative computer accessories, no longer relegated to image-savvy techies. The first step to having one of these at your fingertips is learning the lingo. We created a list of common terms associated with scanners so that you can embark on your shopping experience armed with the knowledge you need.

How Does a Scanner Work?

Using a scanner is not rocket science, but most of us think of them that way. We've broken it down so that you can finally overcome your fear of technology. Read more to learn exactly how a scanner works.