Technology Problems of a Hardware Variety
April 26th, 2009
I guess I’m lucky that I rarely have computer hardware problems. I tend to use the same equipment for years and years. However, last night, my flatbed scanner of approximately 10 years suddenly up and died on me. I can’t get it to register any power whatsoever, no matter what I do. And, as you may be aware, scanning in my hand-drawn artwork is a pretty key step in doing the weekly strip. So…
I’m now shopping for a scanner. While I really like the idea of all-in-one printer/scanner jobbie, I already have a fully functional colour printer (also around 10 years old) so I’m not crazy about replacing that for nothing.
Does anybody have any recommendations as to a (cheap) flatbed scanner that they find reliable? How about the all-in-ones - any preferences?
April 27th, 2009 at 12:45 pm
What size are your originals. I use an Epson for my 8.5×11 comics and a Microtek for scanning my 4×14 comic strips. As far as cheap, the Epson came from CompUSA as they were closing a store for $25 bucks. It didn’t have a box and no accessories, but I wrote to Epson and they sent me everything to make it complete including the software. So if you can find an Epson I highly recommend it for their customer service. The Microtek cost me $350 and that was from a discount supplier.
April 27th, 2009 at 10:19 pm
Thanks Vince: I normally work from 8.5 x 11 originals so I will bear in mind your Epson recommendation. I’d rather not spend more than $100 if I don’t have to, but I’m willing so spend a bit more for better quality.
May 9th, 2009 at 11:59 am
oh no! i hope you’ll still be able to update The Crown Prince! I’ll be really sad if my weekly happiness is gone!
anyways, i personally like Canon scanners. I dont recommend getting all in one scanner printers. Those break down far too easily… I’ve been through 2 of those before my old canon scanner showed up with any signs of malfunctionings. canon scanners are around 20 to 60 bucks at Staples, depending on what kind you want to get and how great the pixel thingys are. if you are gonna refine your sketches digitally anyways, you wouldnt really need those uber scanners that cost like hundreds.
i hope you get your scanner soon!
May 9th, 2009 at 5:29 pm
Fina: Thankfully a friend has loaned me one for the time being and my weekly schedule shall not suffer!