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Shutterbug Magazine: Better scans than any other film scanner!
The Plustek line of OpticFilm scanners consists of three dedicated 35mm film scanners that can scan both negative films and positive slides. These scanners turn film and slides into high quality digital images with up to 7200dpi resolution. The 3 different OpticFilm scanner models are: OpticFilm 7400—for causal photographers, OpticFilm 7600i SE—for advanced amateur photographers, and the OpticFilm 7600i Ai—for serious and professional photographers. These devices are bundled with the world-class scanning software, LaserSoft SilverFast. Both Windows and Macintosh platforms are supported.
Preserve your precious memories and family photos forever, with a Plustek OpticFilm scanner!
The Plustek OpticFilm scanners are highly acclaimed by professional photographers and photo industry experts. A recent review in Shutterbug magazine described the OpticFilm 7600i Ai as a high-performance 35mm film scanner at an affordable cost. In September 2010 issue, “…better scans of 35mm film than any other scanner…,”1 said David B. Brooks, Shutterbug Magazine.
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Resolution and Sharpness
Resolution is the ability of the scanner to resolve and distinguish detail in film or slides. The higher the resolution, the more detail the scanner can extract from the film or slide. Resolution is measured in number dots or pixels per inch and is commonly written as dpi. Plustek OpticFilm scanners can scan images with a resolution up to 7200dpi. This means one 35-mm film frame can be digitized into a file with a maximum image size of 10205x6803 pixels, and a printed size up to 34x22 inch at 300dpi. This is about the same size image you would get from a 66 megapixel digital camera!
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Perceived image sharpness is the result of the combination of scanner resolution and edge contrast or micro-contrast. High resolution and the ability for a scanner to resolve minute differences in edge contrast will result in an image that appears to be sharper to the viewer. Plustek OpticFilm scanners use state of the art illumination and optical systems designed to resolve very small differences in edge contrast. Consequently, OpticFilm scanners provide sharper images than non-dedicated film scanners. |
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Dynamic Range (density): Dmax 3.6 & 3.9
Density range Dmax describes the maximum shadow detail we can see or measure (black and white contrast ratio). The higher the dynamic range is, the better the shadow details. Most scanners use 16-bit analogue/digital converter and process, therefore Dmax 4.8 is the maximum theoretical value a scanner can achieve. However, in practice, compromises in optical systems and electronics prevent this maximum to be achieved except on scanners costing thousands of dollars. This specification alone does not help to understand the quality of a scanned image. Also consider the fact that most properly exposed and developed films and slides have a Dmax of between 1.5 and 3.5. OpticFilm scanners are tested and guaranteed to have a dynamic range of 3.6 and can reproduce the dynamic range found on typical films and slides.
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Use of SilverFast Multi-Exposure2 techniques to extend the dynamic range of OpticFilm scanners
OpticFilm dynamic range is normally adequate for most films and slides, but if your image has more shadow detail or you want to reduce shadow image noise, then SilverFast Multi-Exposure is an excellent tool to extend the dynamic range of OpticFilm scanners. SilverFast Multi-Exposure consists of two exposure passes, the first pass is normal exposure, and the second pass is over exposure. This procedure captures the light area detail in the first pass and the shadow details in the second. After the scan, an algorithm calculates the final scanned image, which now contains every detail from each signal scan. By scanning with SilverFast Multi-Exposure the dynamic range can be increased up to 3.9. A recent review indicates that Plustek film scanner’s performance to show the shadow details is remarkable, especially in scanning color negatives. “… colour negative, the Plustek scanner shows comparatively decent tonal separation in the deep quarter tones.”3 said Mark Segal, The Luminous Landscape.
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Efficient Dust and Scratch Removal
The built-in infrared channel (OpticFilm 7600i SE and OpticFilm 7600i Ai) is a useful and important feature for dust and scratch removal. This hardware feature is perfectly integrated with the SilverFast software by using SilverFast iSRD. Infrared dust and scratch removal technology restores scanned images to better than the original by automatically removing dust and scratches. This feature can save you hours of post scan editing and retouching to remove the results of dust and scratches on the original film or slide.
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Color Accuracy and Consistency
All OpticFilm scanners feature LED illumination. LED illumination has many advantages over traditional cold cathode illumination systems. Benefits of LED illumination include: consistent illumination over the life of the scanner, evenness of illumination, stable color temperature and lower power use.
Pure scan raw data isn’t consistent with original image colors, it needs to be calibrated. All OpticFilm scanners include a built-in ICC profile for positive and negative films to ensure accurate color reproduction. The OpticFilm 7600i Ai goes a step further by including a high quality IT8 calibration target to create an ICC profile specific to the scanner. IT8 calibration allows the OpticFilm 7600i Ai to be used in a color managed imaging workflow and ensures exact color matching. |
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Slim and Simple
Compared with the conventional flatbed scanners which take quite a lot of space, the OpticFilm series provides you with a “slimmer” solution. OpticFilm scanners are about the same size as a loaf of bread and take up less space on your desktop. All OpticFilm scanners also include a custom carrying bag that can be used for transportation and storage.
Feeding film is simple and easy! Just place the film in the film holder and insert the holder into the scanner. A simple push on the film holder advances to the next frame. This mechanism is simple and straightforward. It minimizes the risk of damaging film because of a jam. This mechanism is also more reliable and less prone to mechanical failure than other types of feeding mechanisms. |
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The best choice for 35mm film scanners
Plustek’s OpticFilm series offers excellent performance at reasonable prices. This equates to exceptional value when compared to the previous generation of dedicated film scanners. OpticFilm scanners are used by demanding photographers worldwide and are well known for their excellent value. TrustedReviews’—“…it would suit any keen photographer with a collection of film photos, and is excellent value for money.”4
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