The resolution of your monitor, of course, also affects the quality of the image you see. Consider a high resolution monitor if you do precise color work, but first be sure you have the right video card.

File compression software

Many different programs are available to make image files smaller for storage or transmission. For example, they can enable you to store a 3MB image file on a 1.44MB floppy disk. Some compression software can compress images and restore them with no loss of data or quality; others compress images more, but the restored file is not exactly the same as the original. The difference between the original and restored files is, however, almost unnoticeable.

Maintenance

To keep your scanner operating at its best, you should clean it periodically. Before cleaning, unplug the power cable and all the interface cables connected to the scanner.

Clean the outer case with mild detergent diluted in water.

If the glass of the document table gets dirty, clean it with a soft dry cloth. If the glass is stained with grease or other hard-to- remove material, use a small amount of glass cleaner on a soft cloth to remove it. Wipe off any remaining liquid with a soft dry cloth.

Be sure that there is no dust on the glass of the document table. Dust can cause white spots in your scanned image.

2-8 Scanner Basics