Fujitsu ScanSnap

Its a scanner with a small imprint that duplexes (double sided scanning) at 18 pages per minute.  I used to recommend the Visioneer Documate Series which actually had a faster scan time.  What makes the ScanSnap so good is that it scans directly into Adobe Acrobat unlike the Documate which goes into paperport and then allows you to save the document as a pdf.  When you scan your documents in the ScanSnap, it will open them up in Adobe for you to review.  Anyone who uses Timematters or Worldox can appreciate how this helps create a paperless office, because most document and practice management programs hook directly into Adobe.  What is even better is that the ScanSnap comes with Adobe Standard which would cost you an additional $299.00 if you were to purchase it new . The scanner also comes with ScanSnap Organizer which OCRs the pdfs so they are text searchable.  You always want to make your documents text searchable, so they are easier to find.  If you have not been using OCR, wait to my post in a couple of days about ABBYY Recognition Server.  The ScanSnap also comes with ABBYY FineReader which allows you to scan directly into Word, Excel, and Powerpoint.  The S500 is out right now and you can get of for 479.99 from CDW.  I know they have a version that can be powered directly by two usb cables which makes this scanner ideal for road warriors.  You can scan under 200 dpi which is required for some e-filing.  We hope to get one soon to start doing demos with it.

Comments

[Grace Suarez]

I love the ScanSnap and it does everything you say, but people should be aware it does not run under Vista and Fujitsu has no immediate plans to publish a driver. Another unpublished Vista problem (though this is Fujitsu's gaffe). Funny how some companies (Brother, for instance) had no trouble supplying Inbox drivers.

[Steve]

Great scanner...only problem as noted is the lack of a TWAIN or ISIS driver for application integration. Some good info on other options at www.scanguru.com

[Finis Price]

I reviewed this scanner on my blog, www.Technoesq.com and have to agree it is a WONDERFUL scanner for your desk. Small footprint and great speed for the price.