Features:
- 36-bit flatbed color scanner
- 1-touch operation for scan, copy, fax, e-mail, and Internet applications
- 1,200 dpi scan resolution
- Maximum scan size of 8.5 by 11.7 inches
- 1-year limited warranty
Description:
Hewlett-Packard's ScanJet 5300Cse is a basic scanner that more than adequately fills an impressive range of needs. The accompanying software CD-ROM also includes three especially helpful programs--the Boomerang Internet Design Shop, Adobe PhotoDeluxe, and the Hemera Photo-Objects Gallery--along with the well-designed scanner driver and other extras.Setting up the scanner itself was a breeze. We installed and loaded the software in about 25 minutes. Then, we hot-plugged the scanner (kept the computer on while connecting the scanner) into our PC's USB port. In fact, we recommend that you keep your PC on, as the scanner driver software displays short video snippets that clearly demonstrate how to perform each step. On our computer screen, we watched actual human hands setting up an actual scanner. The ScanJet's oversized quick-installation poster was cumbersome for us to unfold and follow. Also, there is no printed user's guide, so if you have questions, you'll have to consult the extensive electronic version on the CD-ROM. In our tests of the 5300Cse, we scanned documents into text. The scanner was also quick enough that we could use it simply as a copier and could send an image directly to our printer. With a simple click, you can attach images to e-mail or send them via fax. Hewlett- Packard makes other models similar to the ScanJet 5300Cse, some complete with an automatic sheet feeder and some with a transparency adapter, but what we found compelling about the 5300Cse is its simplicity. This scanner is a good, solid flatbed model, unencumbered with gadgetry that may not be applicable to many users' needs. With its 1,200 dpi resolution, the 5300Cse does a beautiful job of scanning text and photographs and making copies--the tasks we think you'll care about most. --David Greenberger Pros:
- Dependable, fast, slim design
Cons:
- Cumbersome oversized setup instruction sheet
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