Japan-based Graphtec Corporation has announced the release of two new scanner models, available locally through Kinetic Distribution. The CS300 is a large-format colour image scanner for GIS, mapping and general CAD, while the top of the range CS400 allows for perfect scanning of photographs and precision graphics.

The CS300 8-bit colour model is a practical choice for GIS, mapping, general CAD and document archiving applications. Offering crisp, accurate and quick colour scans in 256, 8-bit colour mode.

The CS400 24-bit, 16,7 million full colour scanner enables sharp, accurate scanning of colour photographs, fine art, precision graphics and detailed architectural drawings. It offers colour management logic based on s-RGB standard. This new technology provides single-line colour management among output, input and CRT.

The contact image sensor system (CIS) used in all Graphtec scanners, embodies the new technology in the scanning world, as opposed to traditional CCD camera technology resulting in no warm up time required, literally no maintenance and calibration and lower purchase prices.

How does this new technology differ?

CCD technology: With conventional camera-type scanners, a fluorescent light is required to ensure the information on the paper is well lit. A mirror positioned some distance from the document then reflects the information to the camera lens, which passes the information through a colour filter to the image sensor also positioned quite a distance from the source of information. This process can generate light reflection and distortion from edge to centre of page. Scanner manufacturers are trying to minimise the effects of these negative factors of CCD technology with their own digital (software) processing.

CIS technology: Apart from having far fewer parts to maintain, Graphtec scanners provide their light source by LED technology which has a life expectancy of more than 1000 times that of the fluorescent. This also means no warm up time is required and a much lower power consumption.

Add more value to your investment

More often than not, scanned drawings need to be worked on, whether it be for cleaning up irregularities for storing within a data management system, or to be edited in hybrid or CAD mode for further design. For professional cleanup and editing of scanned drawings, we would highly recommend the Consistent Software Raster Solutions. These raster solutions offer leading technology for vertical and niche markets. Software solutions for Windows or AutoCAD/AutoCAD LT, range from Wiseimage/Wiseimage PRO for cleaning up the raster images, editing the raster data and converting raster to CAD formats. RasterID allows for automated indexing of scanned drawings. Csoft is soon to add to its vertical market solutions, Wiseimage GEO for the GIS specialist, which includes integration with leading GIS solutions.

For more information contact Samantha Seymour, Kinetic Distribution, 031 266 7027, info@kinetic.co.za, www.kinetic.co.za