Scanning Question

[littlekiwi]

I have an Epson CX3900 Multifunction and would like to know whether it is possible to change the resolution the items are scanned at to say 400 dpi? If so how do I change it?

[Janet]

I'm not faimilar with that model, but on the Epson I have, it comes up when I open up the scanner software. Somewhere you should see various settings to change.

I did a search for the manual and came up with these drivers:
http://esupport.epson-europe.com/ProductHome.aspx?lng=en-ZA&data=lkuCfcvA9cy3XD7p3DdAFIiepTS75TR2&tc=6

Looks like perhaps the copy utility might be one that would help with that if you can't find where to change settings.

[Emma]

this is a bit unrelated, but I heard that scanning negatives givesa much better result than actual photos (reduces lint and moire, etc). Is this true? I'm not sure if my scanner does nagatives (it's an all-in-one HP fax/copy/printer/scanner machine), and I need to get all my wedding pics scanned in soon.

[littlekiwi]

Thank you Janet, I found where to find it in my software settings

[Janet]

Hi Emma,

Yes, you can get crisper scans from negatives, and they are better - unless they're scratched. Then you've got more to clean up. Digital Ice will go a long ways with that, but depending on the photo, it can detect eyes as something to 'fix', so just something to watch if you're doing it yourself.

With scanning negatives, normally scanners able to do them have a holder to help hold them flat (the heat of the scanner can allow them to curl if they aren't held down flat). For odd sized negatives, you can make your own with leftover mat board - go to a framing place and see if they have some scraps you can have - sometimes they'll be willing to cut a scrap piece for you so you have a frame the exact size needed. Works really well for some of the older negatives that don't fit the conventional size.

OH, and the dust issue - if can, get some compressed air that has no chemicals in it. Awhile back they made 'ReAir' cans - refillable with a small pump. I stocked up on them. I think you can still find them online. Works fabulous to get dust off of the negatives once they're in the holders and ready to scan. :)

Jennifer,

Glad you found the settings! :)