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.

Microform is a medium that is used to store copies of documents on a flat sheet of film, typically a polyester base. Multiple pages are printed on a film of extremely small size, and the standard is 105 millimeters by 148 millimeters. That equates to roughly 4 by 5.8 inches.

Microfilms cannot typically be ascertained by the naked eye, and they must first be magnified. There are a few machines designed just for this purpose. The most common of the machines have a magnifier and a simple projector.

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.

You can find a good quality machine, and they are easy to operate. You do not need a computer or digital storage device. The machines have a standalone purpose for a standalone medium. The films are durable, stable, and can last up to 500 years when stored in a temperature controlled room.

In comparison, CDs have a relatively short life span, and they are not ideal solutions for long-term storage. CDs typically do not last beyond 100 years, unless concentrated care is exercised. Computers and digital storage mediums have a short-term life span in contrast to microfilms and scanners. Microfiches last a lot longer and are easy to replace when films are damaged or lost.

Microfiches do have some disadvantages, but its advantages outweigh the disadvantages. While the need of special equipment is required, it is still bulky and unideal for everyday transportation. The films and the machines to view them are not modern day trends and are considered specialized items.

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.

While it is possible to share files from a microfiche scanner via digital formats, it can be difficult. If one has the right equipment, it is a relatively straightforward process to set up. If a document is only available via microform, one has to travel to the physical location where a reader is to view the documents.




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