Microtek SlimScan C6

Microtek SlimScan C6

SUMMARY

Microtek SlimScan C6 PRO: High-quality scans, great price, compact, start button. CON: Could be faster, no optional transparency adapter or automatic document feeder. USB, 600-by-1200 dpi, 10.4 by 1.7 inches (width by height), 7.7 pounds, 8.5-by-11.7-inch scanning area, no transparency adapter or automatic document feeder. $109 Microtek 800/654-4160 www.microtekusa.com

Microtek's new $90 SlimScan C6 is an impressive newcomer to our reviews. Because of its small size and low price, budget and home buyers will find this model particularly attractive. Weighing in at 7.7 pounds and measuring less than 2 inches in height, this scanner is the most compact model we've tested. That's because under the hood, the SlimScan uses a contact image sensor, a more compact and power-efficient scanning device than the charge-coupled device sensors used by the rest. Although we have generally been happier with the scans of CCD models, we were pleased to see that the SlimScan provides higher-quality scans than most CIS models we've reviewed--on par with many CCD units.

The SlimScan earned a very good rating for scan quality and good ratings for ease of use and support policies. Despite its USB connection, however, the SlimScan's performance was only satisfactory in our scan speed test. Thus, heavy-duty users may prefer a speedier model or one with upgradable accessories, such as an automatic document feeder or transparency adapter, which the SlimScan lacks.

Novices will like SlimScan's front-panel start button. The ample array of bundled software includes two image editors, easy-to-use PhotoDeluxe 2.0 and more robust PhotoImpact 4.2, plus OmniPage LE 5.1 for OCR, PageKeeper Standard 3.0, and a handy utility for scanning, copying, faxing, and more.

Beyond the typical one-year warranty, fax-back support, and Internet-based help (via Microtek's Web site and e-mail services), Microtek has admirably increased its technical support to 12 hours on weekdays and 14 hours all weekend. Although phone calls are not toll-free, Microtek is one of the few manufacturers to offer live help seven days a week.