Wednesday 29 January 2014

Using A Microfiche Scanner To View And Store Documents

By Grace Rivas


When a microfiche scanner is used, a thin transparent film is used to store information in a miniature system. The most common method of reading the cards is to use a reader machine that magnifies the film data. Libraries and museums use these machines often as a way to store resources efficiently. While most organizations may employ digital means to store data, microfiches are used widely and some may argue that they have a longer life span.

Microform is a medium that is used to store copies of documents on a flat sheet of film, typically a polyester base. Multiple pages are printed on a film of extremely small size, and the standard is 105 millimeters by 148 millimeters. That equates to roughly 4 by 5.8 inches.

Microfiches are difficult, if not, impossible to view with the naked eye. You must place the films in a scanner that will magnify and project your document for your viewing ease. The machines are basically simple scanners and projectors.

The machines are costly. They are also unique and are employed in institutions that find documentation critical to their operations. Various optical scanners can be used to convert the films data into digital format that can be interchanged between computers. When storing a large amount of microfilm, a small storage cabinet is sufficient. A small storage cabinet of microfiches can hold up to 10,000 pages of context.

A good quality machine can be expensive, but surprisingly they are straightforward to operate. The machines require no software or digital formats. They operate as a standalone machine for a specific material. The materials which film is built of are stable, and if stored in a temperature controlled room, they films can last up to 500 years.

Opposed to compact discs, which only have an estimated life span of 75-100 years, the films are a much safer bet when it comes to storing data for endurance. Compact discs can last longer depending on the materials they are made of and how they are handled and stored. Computer based storage media is typically more delicate than films. Microfiches are typically easier and cheaper to replace when films are damaged.

Microfiches do have some disadvantages, but its advantages outweigh the disadvantages. While the need of special equipment is required, it is still bulky and unideal for everyday transportation. The films and the machines to view them are not modern day trends and are considered specialized items.

Microforms are best viewed in black and white contrast. For example, a professional photographer would not be complete in his profession using microforms and the machines for professional photography quality images. Microfilms with deep concentration in color would have fading damage over time with exposure to bright lights.

The films are near impossible to view without a microfiche scanner nearby. If you do not have a machine, you can most likely find one at your local courthouse, library, museum, or educational institution. There is also the inconvenience of having to travel to another location to view microfilms, but if you purchase one for a one time investment, it would streamline your life if you deal with a lot of microfilms.




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