An affordable large flatbed scanner that does 11 by 17 inch documents for under 500 dollars... yes.
I have always wanted to get an 11 by 17 inch flatbed scanner that could handle detailed artwork. Unfortunately most scanners of that size are damned expensive and until today I had no idea that one existed for under 500 dollars. Someone who watches me on FA pointed out that I could get a Mustek ScanExpress A3 USB 2400 Pro Large Format Scanner that doesn't cost a small fortune, (You can follow the link below to see it). In my initial research through online reviews says that the scanner appears to produce good images for artists but the software and drivers can be a bit klunky.
Link to view Scanner - http://www.mustek.com/onlinestore/product_info.php/cPath/23/products_id/304 (http://www.mustek.com/onlinestore/product_info.php/cPath/23/products_id/304)
Does anyone know much about how good Mustek scanners are? particularly this model? Is it possible to find one in my area of Vancouver B.C. Canada? ( So far I haven't been able to find one locally, none in any chain stores and a couple of the local smaller computer shops either. The closest places I have found to get one in Canada has been Ontario so far, In the US there may one available in Bellingham or Seattle).
If this is a good large format scanner then I would like to get my paws on one and see how it will work with some of my art. If possible I would prefer to get it from a store (with a warranty) and not online where a credit card is needed, ( because I can't get a CC. I have the funds for it as of now in cash ) If anyone knows of a local store that might have one that would be great, ( if not I may have to try and offer something to get someone to find one for me, for now I'll just see what the responses are. ) If anyone knows of a better large format flatbed scanner I'm all ears.
Frontier (http://www.frontierpc.com/ProductDetails.aspx?eId=10497430) seems to carry them, but it looks like they have to get them in from their distribution centre.
: Silvermink October 20, 2010, 12:06:06 -06:00
Frontier (http://www.frontierpc.com/ProductDetails.aspx?eId=10497430) seems to carry them, but it looks like they have to get them in from their distribution centre.
Yes, I saw this earlier today when continuing with my research but its the older model with drivers that probably wouldn't work on my new computer. Mustek scanner users who upgraded their computers and use Windows 7 report that the scanner software doesn't work. I have recently found out that Tigerdirect.ca in Richmond Hills Ontario has the model that I'm looking for and that they accept Paypal so I'm going to get in touch with them and see about getting one shipped out here.
Thanks.
Next time I speak to my father, Lope, I'll see if he can't provide some insight on this one. His business is in print and graphics, and he may be able to provide either company specific insight, or recommendations.
Thanks Selkit, it would be interesting to hear what he might have to say concerning certain product lines. I currently got the 11 by 17 inch scanner that I was looking for and it works quite well with the older software that I had to run the ancient HP Scanjet that I used to have.
I do know offhand he'd mention having an intense hatred of HP. Then again, being shafted on support for a million dollar industrial machine by them may have colored that opinion somewhat. ;)