Umax Astra 2100U

Umax Astra 2100U

SUMMARY

PRO: Good scan quality, push-button scanning and copying, optional transparency adapter. CON: Mediocre speed, limited support, no optional document feeder. $169; SCSI, 600-by-1200 dpi, 12.2 by 18.4 by 3.9 inches (width by depth by height), 7.8 pounds, 8.5-by-11.7-inch scanning area, optional transparency adapter. Umax 800/562-0311 www.umax.com

Even Homer Simpson could operate Umax's Astra 2100U scanner, which stands out from other newcomers due to its ease of use. The $169 scanner supports a reasonable resolution of 600-by-1200 dots per inch, but its limited speed and support hold it back from the chart.

Still, the Astra 2100U's simple setup and operation make it a solid choice for novices or occasional users. Thanks to its USB interface, the scanner installs quickly and painlessly. The unit's three front-panel push buttons--for scanning, copying, and custom functions--distinguish the Astra 2100U from its competitors.

The Astra 2100U's ample software bundle includes entry-level image editor PhotoDeluxe Home Edition, limited editions of Presto ImageFolio (an advanced image editor) and Presto PhotoAlbum, as well as OmniPage LE OCR. Umax also provides copies of Presto PageManager for managing your scanned documents, and VistaScan, Umax's TWAIN driver for controlling the scanner. VistaScan provides separate options for beginners and advanced users. For example, you can use the software's one-step controls for common images, or you can utilize its powerful imaging tools, like hue and saturation control and multiple scans, for more complex scans.

Umax offers a $69 transparency adapter for the Astra 2100U that can scan transparent material up to 4 by 5 inches in size. Unfortunately you won't find an automatic document feeder for the unit--heavy optical character recognition users may prefer to invest in a scanner that offers one.

Beyond the Astra 2100U's standard one-year warranty, Umax offers free automated support and standard Internet-based help. The company's technical support--15 hours during weekdays and 9 hours on Saturdays--is free for 90 days, but after that you have to pay.