TL;DR
- Large-format scanning is essential for AEC firms: Digitizing old paper documents is still necessary.
- CCD scanners: Higher quality images, better color accuracy, can handle thicker documents. But they are more expensive.
- CIS scanners are more affordable and compact. They are good for basic drawings but not ideal for color accuracy or uneven documents.
- Choose the right scanner for your needs: CCD for quality, CIS for budget.
- TAVCO offers expert advice and solutions: Connect with them to help you choose the right large-format scanner.
Digital workflows transform how architectural, engineering, and construction (AEC) companies manage their documents. While the industry increasingly relies on digital tools, many firms still possess troves of printed architectural drawings that need to be digitized. This situation is precisely why large-format scanning remains essential.
Understanding the Technology
Two primary wide-format scanning technologies cater to this need: CCD and CIS. Both have strengths, but the ideal choice depends on your specific requirements. Let's delve into the differences between CCD and CIS scanners to help you determine the best fit for your needs.
CCD Technology Scanners
CCD stands for Charged Coupled Device. Like traditional digital cameras, this technology employs a lens to capture and focus the image onto the sensor. CCD scanners excel at capturing high-resolution details and a broad color spectrum, making them ideal when image quality is paramount.
Advantages of CCD Scanners:
Exceptional Image Quality and Flexibility:
CCD scanners produce high-quality scans for various documents, from hand-drawn engineering drawings and B&W photos to maps. They capture 16-bit grayscale (64,000 shades of gray) using a dedicated monochrome channel for sharper, more explicit images.
Superior Color Fidelity:
CCD scanners' camera-based technology results in a broader color gamut, greater color fidelity, and reduced image noise. They capture up to 48-bit color, significantly improving print and copy results compared to CIS scanners, especially when using 8—or 12-color printers.
Thick Document and Folded Document Scanning:
CCD scanners can handle mounted originals up to 0.60", thicker than most CIS scanners. This is because CIS technology's optics struggle to effectively image raised or uneven surfaces.
Productivity:
CCD scanners often feature face-down scanning, which, with proper user training, is as accurate as the face-up orientation of most CIS scanners. Additionally, CCD scanners can utilize USB 3.0 for high-speed file transfer, minimizing wait times between images.
Pictured: CCD Imaging Sensor
Disadvantages of CCD Scanners:
- Higher equipment cost
- More complex and fragile technology
- More prominent form factor than CIS types
- Typically require digital stitching of multiple image fields
- Lower optical resolutions
- Lens distortion can sometimes be a factor
- CIS Technology Scanners
- Contact Image Sensor (CIS) technology utilizes an array of fiber optic lenses rather than a standard lens to transfer image information to a sensor array.
- CIS scanners are generally less expensive than CCD models.
CIS Scanning Technology
CIS (Contact Image Sensor) technology in scanners uses tiny light sensors and fiber optic lenses positioned extremely close to the document. This allows for compact scanner designs and high resolution, but can sometimes limit color accuracy and the ability to scan uneven surfaces.
Still, this affordability can come with trade-offs in image quality, particularly when scanning aerial photos or maps.
Pictured: CIS scanning technology (notice the staggered array of imaging sensors)
Advantages of CIS Scanners:
- Less expensive
- High reliability
- More compact
- No stitching required
- Higher optical resolution
- No lens distortion
Disadvantages of CIS Scanners:
- Sensitive to focus depth
- Lower signal/noise ratio due to LED light source
Making the Right Choice: A Real-World Example
The choice between CCD and CIS isn't always straightforward. Consider a recent experience with a county records office. They contacted us seeking a new wide-format scanner to digitize old files.
Initially, they were looking for a more minor, entry-level system. However, upon learning about their extensive collection of photos, aerial photographs, and color maps, we recommended they carefully consider the scanning technology, as it would significantly impact the results.
We explained the differences between CCD and CIS technologies, emphasizing their strengths. In their case, because color accuracy was crucial for preserving the visual integrity of their documents, a CCD technology scanner proved to be the better fit.
CCD vs. CIS Technology Takeaway
CIS scanners are viable if you primarily work with CAD/GIS drawings and need a cost-effective digitization solution. However, a CCD scanner is the superior choice if your needs demand high color accuracy and the ability to scan various document types, including those with folds or uneven surfaces.
While it requires a higher initial investment, the exceptional image quality and versatility it offers make it worthwhile in the long run.
You Can Count on TAVCO
In the intricate world of AEC, you need a vendor partner dedicated to quality and reliability, just like you. TAVCO delivers that, offering high-performance tools such as durable large-format plotters, advanced 3D scanners, and innovative software solutions.
We foster enduring partnerships built on unwavering support and cutting-edge solutions that keep you at the forefront of your industry. Moreover, when you need assistance or advice, including cost-effective options, you can always connect directly with a TAVCO specialist, not a bot or an automated attendant.
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Connect with a TAVCO specialist today to customize solutions for your specific needs.
