How to Buy a Computer Scanner

You thought buying a scanner would be easy, but when you browsed the computer peripherals aisle, the choices were staggering. There are expensive scanners, cheap scanners, ones that print and read media cards and yet others that accept transparencies. The features are endless.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Determine your basic needs. All scanners will digitally copy a photo or document, but some perform certain tasks better. Make a list of your top requirements. If you're scanning large documents, a sheet-fed scanner will be necessary. On the other hand, if you're only going to scan photographs, a small-feed unit might suffice.

2. Check the resolution of the scanner to determine if it meets your criteria. A professional graphic artist will want to scan at large resolutions in order to enlarge the photograph digitally for restoration work. However, most people will be satisfied with one that scans at 300 dpi (dots per inch). (See Resources)

3. Shop online. If you can wait a couple of days for your new scanner, try looking for it online. Prices are often lower, especially if the company offers free shipping. However, before you order, research the seller by looking up their name at Resellerrating.com and read what other buyers are saying about them.

4. Purchase a used scanner with care. Ask the seller why they are getting rid of it and request that they show you how it works. If that's not possible, be sure to get the installation software disc that came with it. If you do buy a used scanner with no software, try downloading the drivers online. (See Resources)

5. Compare your needs with your budget. It's not necessary to pay for features you will never use. If you already have a printer and don't need copy machine features, a smaller model will take up less room on your desk. If you need a portable document scanner for your laptop, you won't want to spend extra for a transparency-reading module. Prices increase with add-ons, so buy only the ones you will use.