I got a really good deal on this scanner, $29.99 after $30 mail in rebate.
I have been using scanners as a software writer for years and have experienced the quirks of many. The home brand leaders (HP and Umax) both have their little oddities, so does the acer!
This scanner has a very simple setup procedure. You plug the cable into your printer socket and then your printer links from your scanner, Easy! Load the software and bobs your uncle. Off you go.
Photos can take a while to scan if you use more than 200x200dpi resolution, especially if you scan a block of four at a time (block of four postcard sized at 300x300dpi took about 5 minutes).
When you have scanned an image it seems to take a while for the scanner to reset. Try and scan another image straight away and you will find that the software driver cannot find the scanner. The options are to retry or quit. I have found it best to quit, turn off the scanner for a few seconds, then start from scratch.
The OCR (optical character recognition) software that came with the package (Textbridge Classic 2.0) is absolutely rubbish. Don't let this put you off though as every scanner I have ever seen has the same cut down versions of a much more expensive "Pro" version. Do not register the software or you will get a lot of junk mail letting you have a "special" offer. If you really need OCR then look for Textbridge Pro or Omnipage (preferred).
The optical resolution is all you need for both photos and text.
Don't fall for the flashy adds of any scanner that says 9600x9600dpi, this is achieved by software. ALWAYS look for the optical resolution.
To summarize, this is a neat and handy tool for the moderate computer user. If you scan every day or plan to use this as a regular photocopier then go for a scsi model. The footprint does not overwhelm the desktop and the value of this model is far more then the maximum price I have seen.
Hardware Installation : 2 Mins Software Installation : 6 Mins (with re-boot)
More details
Ease of use
Satisfactory
Design
Good
Range of extra features / functions
Good
Instruction manual
Needs improvement
Manufacturer Support
Good
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