Canon CanoScan D1250U2F

The CanoScan D1250U2F is one of the first scanners we've seen to feature a USB 2.0 connection which, in essence, is a faster version of the existing USB standard.

The unit is compact, measuring 257 x 460 x 71mm and weighing just 2.5kg. It has a smart silver and blue metallic finish and is very slim and simple in design.

Four 'EZ' buttons permit one-touch operation and control the Scan, Copy, E-mail and Photo functions. A 35mm film adaptor unit is included for scanning transparencies.

Canon's clever Z-lid is a nifty feature, allowing you to scan thick books and documents easily. A transparent hinge at the rear keeps the cover parallel to the scanner while scanning unwieldy objects.

The USB 2.0 connection came out well in our tests, especially at higher resolutions. For example, when scanning a black and white A4 document the scanner took two minutes 14 seconds to transfer the data via USB 1.1 but just 54 seconds with USB 2.0.

It scanned colour photos considerably faster, too. At higher resolutions (600 dpi and beyond), USB 2.0-transferred scans were processed at roughly twice the speed of those carried out with a traditional USB interface.

This makes it a tempting prospect for anyone likely to perform lots of high-resolution scanning. To further entice prospective buyers, Canon has included a PCI USB 2.0 upgrade card in the package.

However, in other areas the D1250U2F makes the grade only as an average performer. In our Labs it passed the tests for both colour accuracy and image sharpness but the quality of scans, for both documents and photos, was never outstanding.

Price: £169 (inc VAT) with film adaptor unit, £119 without.

Specifications:

• Six-line colour CCD scanning
• USB 2.0/1.1 connection (Adaptec USB 2.0 interface card included)
• 1,200 x 2,400dpi scan resolution
• 35mm film adaptor unit
• Z-lid hinge provides room for scanning of bulky objects
• Imaging software packages included.

Minimum requirements: Pentium III 733MHz PC; CDRom drive; Windows 98 or higher (for USB 1.1 operation); or Windows Me or higher (USB 2.0); internet connection required to download USB 2.0 driver.

Contact: Canon 0500 246 246
www.canon.co.uk

See also:

HP Scanjet 5500c

A superb flatbed scanner suitable for photographers.  04 Feb 2003

Epson Perfection 2400 Photo

An ideal device for professional photographers.  03 Jan 2003

Benq S2W-7400UT

A flagship offering, but how does it compare with rivals?  05 Dec 2002

Canon CanoScan LiDE 30

A very thin scanner that even works on its side.  11 Oct 2002

Canon CanoScan D2400U

Good software and USB connectivity make this a great quality, easy to use scanner at a fair price.  17 May 2002

Canon Canoscan D1250U2F

A new interface offers speedy, good quality scans.  02 Apr 2002

Epson Perfection 1250 Photo

An easy-to-use scanner for the small office.  19 Feb 2002

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