Scanner recommendation?

[threeputt]

We have a basic 5 man commercial sign shop. Our scanner (God knows how old) is not working properly. Is there any real difference in scanners for our purposes? We need to purchase something that will allow us to scan customer supplied artwork for reproduction. Usually nothing high rez or anything, just basic sign stuff. ?Comments?

 

[jmcnicoll]

They still make scanners? Would buy a nice camera, lights and make shift copy stand.

 

[Jester1167]

They still make scanners? Would buy a nice camera, lights and make shift copy stand.

Either that or a multifunction printer - scan, copy, fax, print.

 

[John Butto]

Canon makes great scanners and the prices are good.

 

[threeputt]

Either that or a multifunction printer - scan, copy, fax, print.

We have two of those at other work stations. (office person, and engraving dept.) We need one that will be at our work station and scan to vector (function of our software at this work station)

 

[J Hill Designs]

scan to vector?!? um...

 

[d fleming]

My umax can scan to vector using the vistascan software that came with it.

 

[J Hill Designs]

so its just autotrace after raster scan?

 

[d fleming]

When I first pick acquire image from pull down tab I have the option to just acquire vector. Set up, scan as normal and vector straight to signlab. I don't usually pick this option. I normally do the trace in signlab but the auto function isn't bad. It's been so long since I set it up it may very well be signlab that offers that function straight from the scanner.

 

[threeputt]

so its just autotrace after raster scan?

I think it's just a straight scan to vector. ie: If I select "scan to vector" it will scan the one color logo (or whatever) and pop up a vector in my software. But....my basic question is, is there a lot of difference in flat bed scanners? Should I pay $150 or $350?

 

[J Hill Designs]

I think it's just a straight scan to vector. ie: If I select "scan to vector" it will scan the one color logo (or whatever) and pop up a vector in my software. But....my basic question is, is there a lot of difference in flat bed scanners? Should I pay $150 or $350?

the only problem with that is it still will be just an autotrace.............

 

[threeputt]

the only problem with that is it still will be just an autotrace.............

Ok, ok, but my fundamental question is, is there any significant difference in spending more for a flat bed scanner, for our needs? (as outlined in my first post)