Mustek BearPaw 1200CU

WHAT'S HOT: The Mustek BearPaw 1200CU's finest features are its compact design and easy operation. The space-saving 1200CU uses ultra-thin contact-image-sensor technology, rather than the comparatively larger, charge-coupled-device optics found in most of the Top 10 scanners. Measuring only 4 pounds and just 1.4 inches in height, the nimble 1200CU is simple to store when not in use. The bottom of the unit has a foldout stand for easy vertical storage, plus a space that holds the USB cable. Because it's powered by a USB connection, the 1200CU does not require a separate plug-in outlet. Like other models in the Mustek BearPaw series, a five-button front panel provides quick access to scan, fax, e-mail, copy, and custom tasks, such as optical character recognition.

WHAT'S NOT: The 1200CU's scan quality and performance proved uninspiring. In print and on-screen tests, color scans were redder and black-and-white scans darker than the original images (using the default settings). In our speed tests, the 1200CU's 257-KBps throughput at its maximum resolution of 600 dpi fell short of even the slowest model on the chart. Mustek offers no optional accessories--such as a transparency adapter or automatic document feeder--for this model.

WHAT ELSE: The 1200CU's software-based 48-bit color and 600-by-1200-dpi resolution is surpassed by most of the SOHO chart scanners, which feature more-accurate hardware-based 42-bit color and 1200-by-2400-dpi resolution. Although you can remove the cover for scanning large materials (such as books and tabloids), it doesn't lift off easily. The 1200CU's bundled software includes Ulead Photo Express 3.0 SE for image editing, Abby FineReader 4.0 Sprint for OCR, and Trellix Web 2.5 for Web page design.

BEST USE: The $100 BearPaw 1200CU is best suited for home users who want a low-priced, compact scanner with easy-to-use buttons.

SUMMARY

Mustek BearPaw 1200CU USB, 600 by 1200 dpi, 11.1 by 16 by 1.46 inches (width by depth by height), 4.01 pounds, 8.5-by-11.7-inch scanning area; no optional transparency adapter or automatic document feeder. One-year warranty; toll-call technical support for 8.75 hours on weekdays. $100 949/788-3600 www.mustek.com