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Title: Technology
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  Scanning basics (glossary)

Save an archival version
Unless you know that you will never need a digital image beyond your immediate purpose, it is a good practice to save an archival version of the scan in TIFF format. Create a working version of the file for the web or print. 

Determine the image size
The following chart provides guidelines for image size and resolution. Screen sizes reflect browser frames. While you can always scale down an image's size, scaling it up may lead to a loss of quality.
 

Media type

Capture method

Capture resolution

Archival
format

Screen format
size/quality

Mime type, Extension

b/w text document

flatbed scanner or digital camera

1-bit,
600 dpi

TIFF

PDF

application/pdf
.pdf

photos, illustrations, maps, manuscripts, etc.

flatbed scanner or digital camera

8-bit grayscale or
24-bit color
300 dpi

TIFF

JPEG
150x150 pixels
780x470
1000x610
1250x870

Quality: High (60)

image/jpeg
.jpg

35mm b/w & color slide or negative

slide scanner

24-bit color
3000 pixels
(longest side)

TIFF

JPEG
150x150 pixels
780x470
1000x610
1250x870

Quality: High (60)

image/tiff
.tif
 
Set the scan resolution for screen or print 
  • For web or screen, a resolution of 75-100 pixels per inch will produce a final screen image approximately the size of the original.
  • For print, image resolution is a function of the printer's capability. 150-200 pixels per inch is more than adequate for a 600 dpi laser or  inkjet printer.
  • Scan at 300 ppi if you do not know the final size of the printed image, or to create an archival version of the scan.
  • When working with a publisher or commercial printer, ask their production staff for guidance.
Set bit depth or 'image type'
  • 24-bit, 'millions of colors' or 'true color' for all color photos or artwork
  • 256 shades of gray for black and white photos
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