Disadvantages And Advantages Of Using A Microfiche Scanner

By Grace Rivas


A microfiche scanner is used to scan thin transparent films that store information. The films are miniature, and the most common method of reading the films is to use the machine to magnify the film and its information. These things are commonly found in libraries and museums. Any place that is interesting in preserving documents and images would benefit from the films because they have a longer life span than digital formats do.

In case it got by you, microfilms are much more durable and stronger than digital data mediums. A small film is around 155mm x 148mm. In inches, it translates to 4 in x 5.8 in. Typically, microfilms used to embed documents and images are made from a polyester base.

Microfiches are difficult, if not, impossible to view with the naked eye. You must place the films in a scanner that will magnify and project your document for your viewing ease. The machines are basically simple scanners and projectors.

The viewing machines are initially expensive, but they are considered unique items that feature strong endurance. Many educational and government buildings will have these machines and the microfilms. There are various scanners that can be interconnected to digital devices for interchangeable formats. When microfilms are employed, a small storage system can hold over 10,000 pages of documents and images. A small cabinet is sufficient, but some places use more.

While the machines are expensive, they are not complicated to use and does not require specialized software or skill to use them. Digital storage media can only be read on things like computers. Some institutions do use microfiches and digital storage media interchangeably. The polyester material which the images are printed on is quite stable, and in temperature controlled environments, the films can last as long as 500 years.

Opposed to compact discs, which only have an estimated life span of 75-100 years, the films are a much safer bet when it comes to storing data for endurance. Compact discs can last longer depending on the materials they are made of and how they are handled and stored. Computer based storage media is typically more delicate than films. Microfiches are typically easier and cheaper to replace when films are damaged.

Microfilms have little disadvantages. The main disadvantage is that you need viewer machines to view the documents on the film. The machines are bulky, and they are not suitable for on-the-move circumstances. Finding a good machine can be difficult and these machines are unique and rare.

The main theme for microforms is contract on black and white images. Using microforms to store high quality images is not ideal, and photographs do not look as good as modern digital devices portray them to be. When color ink is used in microform, it can degrade with exposure to sunlight or bright light.

The films are near impossible to view without a microfiche scanner nearby. If you do not have a machine, you can most likely find one at your local courthouse, library, museum, or educational institution. There is also the inconvenience of having to travel to another location to view microfilms, but if you purchase one for a one time investment, it would streamline your life if you deal with a lot of microfilms.




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