Your Scanner and How to Use it!
Most of you probably have a scanner (it might be in your
Scanner/Copier/Printer) or, if you have to buy one, it's probably the
least expensive part of your computer system (often under $100)!
A scanner takes an image and converts into a digital image (.jpg is the
industry standard). This allows you to put information INTO your
computer! A Scanner often comes with separate software which
works much like photo editing software and could help you improve your
scanned image. Most photo editing software (like hte ones I've
mentioned" often have a "scan component" built right into them!
That is good because then you can use one program for all your
pics and your scanned images! If you are currently using Picasa
2.1 and your scanner is attached, just go to the "Import" button in the
upper left-hand corner and you should see your scanner as one of the
recognized devices. That will allow you to scan images right from
Picasa 2.1 or most other photo editing software packages!
After you scan an image into your computer, you should then "enhance"
it and then you can print it, send it as email, or send it out as a FAX
(see further explanation).
Very often the scanner cover come off so that you can scan pages in a book, "hard" objects like jewelry, or old photos.
Some scanners come with attachments to allow you to scan 4x5 photos, 35mm film negatives, or 35mm slides!
Scanners can cost from $50 to $500 depending upon their capabilities.
If you plan on scanning many old photos or slides and your planning on
buying a new scanner, buy one with "Digital Ice" which is built-in
technology that automatically removes many film scratches and
other
impurities. For further info go to: http://www.asf.com/products/ice/FilmICEOverview.shtml
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