| Scanners
Key Components
Dynamic Range
If you are faced with two scanners that match each other in bit
depth, resolution, and price, dynamic range may set one apart from
the other. Dynamic range is similar to bit depth in that it measures
the ability of the scanner to reproduce tones. It is measured on
a scale from 0 to 5, with 0 representing absolute white and 5 representing
absolute black.
Most standard
color flatbeds have a dynamic range between 2 and 2.5. Unless you
need to have perfect color reproduction, this amount should meet
your scanning needs. Higher end flatbeds can get up near 3, after
which professional drum scanners are needed for exact prepress reproductions.
While dynamic
range should not be thought of as a straight grade of a scanner's
ability, it is a useful tool for comparing scanners with similar
specifications.
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