What is a Scanner

Introduction to Scanners

A scanner is a hardware device used to convert physical documents, images, or objects into digital formats. It is widely utilized in offices, schools, and personal settings for digitization and record-keeping.

Functions of a Scanner

Scanners perform several essential functions, including:

• Digitizing paper documents for electronic storage
• Capturing high-resolution images for editing or printing
• Enabling Optical Character Recognition (OCR) for editable text extraction
• Archiving historical or sensitive documents

Types of Scanners

• Flatbed Scanners: Commonly used for scanning documents and photos.
• Handheld Scanners: Portable devices for quick and flexible scanning.
• Sheet-fed Scanners: Ideal for high-volume scanning tasks.
• 3D Scanners: Capture the shape and texture of physical objects for 3D modeling.

Importance of Scanners

Scanners are vital for creating digital backups, enhancing workflows, and preserving information. They bridge the gap between physical and digital media, ensuring accessibility and longevity of data.