Large Format Scanners Guide

In today's dynamic business environment, efficiency and productivity are paramount. For industries dealing with large-scale documents, intricate designs or detailed artwork, the need for accurate and high-quality scanning solutions is more significant than ever.

This is where large format scanners come into play, revolutionising the way businesses handle oversized documents and ensuring they stay ahead in the competitive landscape.

What is Large Format Scanning?

Large format scanning involves the digitisation of documents, images, or designs that exceed the typical dimensions of standard scanners. These scanners are designed to handle oversized materials, such as blueprints, engineering drawings, maps, posters, and other large-format documents, providing a seamless transition from physical to digital.

Read our guide on how to scan a document on a printer.

Benefits of Large Format Scanners

Large format scanners offer a myriad of benefits that cater to the specific needs of businesses dealing with oversized documents. Here are some compelling reasons why your business needs a large format scanner:

• Increased productivity: Large format scanners save valuable time by quickly and accurately digitising oversized documents, eliminating the need for manual reproduction or handling.
• Preservation of documents: Fragile or ageing large documents can be easily damaged during handling. Large format scanners ensure the preservation of these documents by creating digital copies that can be stored securely.
• Enhanced collaboration: Digital copies enable easy sharing and collaboration among team members, regardless of their physical location. This fosters improved communication and accelerates project timelines.
• Cost savings: Large format scanners reduce the costs associated with traditional reproduction methods, such as printing and storage. Going digital eliminates the need for physical storage space and reduces paper wastage.
• High-quality reproduction: These scanners offer exceptional resolution and colour accuracy, ensuring that every detail of the original document is faithfully reproduced in the digital format.

Best Wide Format Scanners 2024

Staying abreast of the latest technology is essential for businesses aiming to optimise their document management processes. In 2024, several large format scanners stand out for their advanced features and cutting-edge capabilities. Here are two top contenders:

Contex SD3600 A0 Document Scanner

The Contex SD3600 A0 Document Scanner stands out in the realm of large format scanning with its innovative features. The inclusion of SmartShare technology and face-up scanning capabilities sets it apart, providing users with a smooth and efficient scanning experience. The scanner is also ENERGY STAR compliant, reflecting its commitment to energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. The scanner seamlessly integrates into your office environment, saving space while delivering top-notch scanning performance.

The key features of the Contex SD3600 include:

• High-resolution scanning: The SD3600 allows users to scan in high resolution with up to 1200 dpi, ensuring that every detail of the original document is faithfully reproduced in digital format.
• Compact design: With its compact design, the SD3600 is an ideal choice for home or small office environments. It discreetly fits into your workspace while delivering powerful scanning capabilities.
• One-Touch Buttons for efficiency: The scanner features One Touch Buttons that are programmable to accept common tasks, streamlining the scanning process and increasing overall efficiency.
• All-Wheel-Drive for perfect grip: Gain a perfect grip on your documents with the All-Wheel-Drive feature. This ensures smooth and reliable document feeding, reducing the risk of errors during the scanning process.
• User upgradeable for flexibility: The SD3600 offers flexibility by being completely user upgradeable. Whether you need more colour, increased speed, or higher resolution, this scanner can adapt to your evolving needs.
• Lightweight and easy to use: The Contex SD3600 is designed with user convenience in mind. Its lightweight build and large scanning width of 36” make it a must-have for any business requiring high-quality large format scanning.

SmartLF Portable Document Scanner

The SmartLF Portable Document Scanner takes large format scanning to the next level by introducing unprecedented portability without compromising performance. As the world's first super lightweight, fully portable A0 scanner, it caters to professionals who require flexibility and mobility in their scanning needs. Its lightweight design, versatile saving options, and innovative technology make it a go-to choice for professionals who prioritize mobility without compromising on scan quality.

The SmartLF’s key features include:

• Self-contained and portable: This scanner is a game-changer as the world's first self-contained scanner for large format scans and documents up to A0 in size. Weighing only 5.2 kg, it is designed for users on the move.
• Rugged hard case for transportation: The inclusion of a rugged hard case ensures safe transportation of the device. This feature is especially beneficial for professionals who need to take their scanners to different locations.
• Versatile saving options: Scan to USB, the cloud, or network, or use the built-in 6GB of memory. This versatility ensures that users can seamlessly save and access their scanned files in various ways, enhancing workflow efficiency.
• No laptop required: Simplify your scanning process – no laptop is required. With a simple plug-and-scan functionality, users can quickly set up and start scanning.
• Patented SingleSensor technology: The scanner delivers superb output quality through Colortrac's patented SingleSensor scanning technology. This technology, requiring only a single power lead, ensures high-quality scans with every use.

Find the Best Large Format Scanner with Perfect Colours

Here at Perfect Colours, we are large-format specialists and know all there is to know about scanners and printers. If you are looking to buy a new scanner or printer, or need support with any of your printing or scanning equipment, get in touch with our expert team to discuss your needs.