the increasing importance of microfilm scanners

1. The Increasing Importance of Microfilm ScannersBy Kevin D’ArcyVice President of Sales & Marketing

2. What is A Microfilm Scanner A microfilm scanner is a device that is used for reading microform documents. Microform documents include microfilm, flat film, microfiche, ultra fiche and aperture cards. Using cassettes or open reels, microfilm is used by a wide variety of enterprises to store many documents in a small space. Microfilm and scanners have become increasingly important in the storage of archived newspapers as well as development of films. A reader is used in viewing and projecting to magnify microfilm images to readable sizes.

3. Quality Microfilm Scanners A high quality reader offers two forward and two reverse speeds and uses high quality precision crafted motors, automatic opening glass platen, rotary control switch, film loading at desk level, zoom lens with magnification ranging from 18X through 42X, 24" x 24" screen for a large clear image. Purchasing a microfilm scanner with these features will ensure a versatile reader for all libraries and research institutions. Quality microfilm scanners come with a wide variety of accessories to improve usability including: writing pad holders, choice of foot switches: uni-directional or bi-directional, automatic blip retrieval using blip chip controllers, adjustable height table with modesty panel and more. Not all microfilm scanners are created equal and it is important to choose a reader that is manufactured by a company with a commitment to quality, service and value.

4. Features of Quality Microfilm Scanners Proven Precision Optics: A standard 18x-42x magnification zoom lens is preferred. Ease of Operation: All controls should be close to the seated operator. Film loading and unloading should be easy and all switches should be at the operator’s fingertips. Accessible to Persons with Disabilities: Persons with disabilities should find the microfilm scanner easy to use. As mentioned before all controls and film loading should be conveniently located near the operator. There should be no need to stand to reach the controls or for film loading and unloading. Ease of Viewing: A 24” x 24” (609mm x 609mm) is about the largest offered in microfilm scanners and high quality readers feature screens that are angled for effortless viewing. The illumination should be automatically adjusted to provide optimum light throughout the magnification range and all film formats should be accommodated by the 360-degree rotation of the carrier.

5. Additional Scanner Features Two motor drives with timing belts and pulleys DC motors – no tachs or encoders, no sensors Torque maintained at low speed for smooth operation Dual ball bearings on reel shafts Rotary speed switch for numerous positions including: fast forward, fast reverse, slow forward and slow reverse with a variable speed range in the slow position for browsing Linear low speed level control from very slow through medium browse Rotary switch with hands free auto rewind Film tension should be maintained at low speeds for maintaining good focus during browsing. Contact your local document management company for more information about their microfilm products and what to consider when purchasing a microfilm scanner.

6. About the Author Kevin D'Arcy is VP of Sales and Marketing for MES Hybrid Document Systems, Ontario's leading document scanning and document management supplier. For more information about microfilm scanners, visit http://www.mesltd.ca/.