Hewlett Packard ScanJet 6390C Professional Series Color Scanner

• 1,200 dpi hardware resolution, unlimited enhanced, 36-bit color depth
• Automatic document feeder, transparency adapter, and slide adapter
• SCSI and USB interfaces
• HP Intelligent Scanning Technology
• Great software bundle for productivity

The ScanJet 6390C is a solid basic scanner that more than adequately fills a useful range of needs. Setup and installation were quick, easy, and intuitive. The oversized quick installation poster was easy to read and simple to follow. If you want additional assistance, you will need to check the coach feature (part of the extensive online help system) or other online help, since the 6390C doesn't include a printed user's guide. You can also use the internal coach to help scan your work after a quick but thorough tutorial. (It took us only 10 minutes to run through all the steps.)

In our tests, the scanner required a warm-up time of just under a minute and a half. After warm-up, we quickly reproduced flat images and slides using several different preset dpi settings. The scanner also has an automatic feeder for scanning multiple flat documents or images, which we found particularly useful. With the feeder attached, the scanner can handle up to five scans per minute. The slide adapter is a bit cumbersome, with too much leeway in the placement of the slide, but it produces vivid scans. The ScanJet 6390C also includes a transparency adapter that allows you to scan transparencies in sizes up to 5 by 5 inches.

This is a fairly effortless scanner that can meet a wide range of needs. Whether paired with an ink-jet or laser printer, you will get crisp, clear scanned images. You can also fax scans or attach them to an e-mail with the click of a button. --David Greenberger

Pros:

• Fast, easy setup
• Can handle a full range of originals
• Complete solution with feeder, slide adapter, and transparency adapter

Cons:

• Slide adapter is cumbersome