ScanROM 4E

[P3D Erlys <Erlys@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Some of you have asked about this product, and I decided to give you my
report.

I have just received and tested Artec's ScanROM 4E photo and slide
scanner, which I recently ordered from them.  I mainly wanted it for
slide scanning for screen images, not for printing.  I tested it against
a single slide from which I had had a print made and scanned using a
Polaroid Photopad and EZphoto software.  My photopad image was a JPG
file with 47,591 bytes scanned at 100 bpi.  There was plenty of space on
the ScanROM carrier for a masked or cardboard mounted stereo slide, and
this was what I hoped I could use it for.

It scanned the entire 4 x 6-in surface.  I used its default setting of
200 bpi, and I could either save it as a BMP (2,880,054 bytes) or a TIF
(600,000+).  It was VERY slow.  And, sorry to say, I was unable to get
anywhere near the quality of my photopad scan, no matter what I did.  I
also tried scanning a few photos and couldn't get a color match.  I
don't know what I expected for $217.95 when slide scanners usually cost
a lot more, but I was extremely disappointed after having been lured by
their wonderful ad on the web: 
http://www.artecusa.com/product/computer/rom-e.htm

I have been reading all your posts about dye subs and high quality
printing, so I realize I tested this machine only for my own use.  It
may be okay at higher resolutions in the hands of an expert, I don't
know.  All I know is, I'm sending it back.

Erlys in Mill Valley


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