Microtek ScanMaker 3630

WHAT'S HOT: At $60, the Microtek ScanMaker 3630 is the least expensive scanner we've reviewed this year. Like most other USB scanners, this hot-pluggable unit is a breeze to install. But unlike most flatbed scanners, the top of the 3630's lid has a raised border so that it can also serve as a photo tray for holding your images--a handy convenience for small work areas, where desktop space always comes at a premium. The 3630's relatively compact and lightweight design also make it easy to stow away.

WHAT'S NOT: Although the ScanMaker 3630's hardware can capture 42-bit color scans, the bundled software doesn't allow you to capture 42-bit color images. Instead, you'll need to use Adobe Photoshop (not included) or a similar application to attain the higher color depth.

In our color photo tests, the scanning software's default settings yielded dark colors and unfocused details for both on-screen and print images. Manual adjustments resulted in improved results, but required extra time to learn and use. Additionally, line-art results at 300 dpi proved noticeably substandard, with this model failing to produce as many discernible shades of gray as others in its class did. Live technical support is limited to 90 days; after that, you'll have to pay $15 for each call.

WHAT ELSE: The modest software bundle includes an image editor (MGI PhotoSuite III SE), an optical character recognition application (ScanSoft TextBridge Pro 8.0), and a simple TWAIN driver that provides a bare minimum of scanner controls. No document management or other applications come with this unit, and Microtek offers no optional accessories such as a transparency adapter or automatic document feeder.

BEST USE: The easy-to-use Microtek ScanMaker 3630 is strictly for budget-minded home users who don't require high-end scans and don't mind spending extra time to obtain adequate-looking images.

SUMMARY

Microtek ScanMaker 3630 USB, 600 by 1200 dpi, 11.4 by 17.6 by 3.3 inches (width by depth by height), 5.8 pounds, 8.5-by-11.7-inch scanning area; no optional transparency adapter or automatic document feeder. One-year warranty; free, toll-call support (10 hours on weekdays) is limited to 90 days. $60 800/654-4160 www.microtekusa.com