The UMAX Astra 4000U has 1200 dpi optical resolution that offers improved image quality for those cases where higher resolution is needed, such as scanning finely detailed... more
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A review by iharsh on UMAX Astra 4000U November 14th, 2001
Author's product rating:
Speed
Slow
Colour sensitivity
Good
Resolution
Good
Ease of Installation
Good - quick to install
Value For Money
Satisfactory
Advantages:
Great quality of scanning, reasonable price, tech support, MAC and PC
Disadvantages:
Large dimensions, rather noisy, low productivity, week software
Recommend to potential buyers:
yes
Full review
The body of this scanner has rather impressive dimensions. A little strangely on rather traditional body looks the bright orange plank of the holder of cover; under which right edge is located the transport clamper. The cover is lifted up and is fixed in a vertical position; if necessary it easily can be raised above a surface of a table or to remove. On center of a forward board the indicator is located. On a back board are present the interface plug USB, plug miniDIN for connection a slide-module (optional), and also the standard plug IEC-320 for connection of the energy cable, near to which is setting the switch of a power.
There is next software in a package: - the program of management of scanning VistaScan 3.52 (PC/Mac), - VistaShuttle 1.00 (PC), - utility for copying on the printer Copy Utility (PC), - Presto PageManager Deluxe 4.20 (PC) /2.31 (Mac), - graphic editor ImageFolio LE (PC), - OCR system PageType (PC), - Caere OmniPage LE (PC/Mac) and Recognita Standard (PC), - graphic editor Adobe Photoshop 5.0 LE.
After installation of the software package from an enclosed CD and reboot of a system in System Tray there is an icon of the scanner, with pressing on which by the right button of mouse it is possible to call the context-sensitive menu. From it the help loads the programs VistaScan, Vista Shuttle, Copy Utility, the test of the scanner is initiated and the window of management of a lamp is called.
For management of scanning the program VistaScan 3.52 is used which can function independently or as the TWAIN-driver. It the interface has two modes switched by large buttons in a top of the window: for the beginners and experienced users.
Connection of the scanner and installation of the software have passed without any difficulties. Before installation of the scanner it is necessary to unblock the transport clamper. The use of a built-in power unit and equipment standard plug allows if necessary easily to connect the scanner to a UPS.
The scanner works is rather noisy, especially in case of scanning with the low resolution.
Umax Astra 4000u has shown an excellent quality of scanning. It is necessary to mark good parameters of an actual resolution, low level of noise on a received image, and also the exactitude of colors.
The productivity of Umax Astra 4000u has appeared rather low. Nevertheless it is necessary to mark that, despite of a little bit disappointing outcomes, the hardware of this scanner has a large potential, which can be uncovered, using the software of other manufacturers, for example SilverFast from LaserSoft Imaging.
Supported Media Type: Plain paper, bulk objects (such as books)
Media Feeder Type: Manual load
Expansion / connectivity
Connections: 1 x USB - 4 PIN USB Type B
Miscellaneous
Cables Included: 1 x USB cable
Compliant Standards: Plug and Play
Manufacturer's product description
The UMAX Astra 4000U has 1200 dpi optical resolution that offers improved image quality for those cases where higher resolution is needed, such as scanning finely detailed engravings and enlargements. It offers 42-bit color output with UMAX' Bit Enhancement Technology which gives images more smoother curves and color depth. The Astra 4000U is designed to meet the needs of graphic and SOHO users at an affordable price. With the UMAX Astra 4000U, you will get the performance and productivity.
Power
Power Device: Power supply - integrated
Voltage Required: AC 110/220 V ( 50/60 Hz ), AC 100 V ( 60 Hz )
Power Consumption Operational ( Standby ): 15 Watt
Compliant Standards: EPA Energy Star
Software / system requirements
Software Included: Drivers & Utilities, Drivers & Utilities, Adobe PhotoShop LE, VistaScan, Drivers & Utilities, Adobe PhotoShop LE, Presto! Page Manager, Caere OmniPage LE, Presto! Photo Album, VistaScan
OS Required: Apple MacOS 8.0 or later, Microsoft Windows Millennium Edition, Microsoft Windows 98/2000, Microsoft Windows XP, Microsoft Windows 98, Apple MacOS 8.0 or later, Microsoft Windows 2000, Microsoft Windows Millennium Edition, Microsoft Windows XP
As I've suffered a bit of a drought on the writing front of late, Deano suggested a rant to get myself going again.
Well, cant find anything I feel strongly enough about to rant so decided to write an op on my trusty car from which I parted company... more
