In this series we’ve covered tools to maintain your digital files, Moodle for online assignment submission, and PDF mark-up tools. Now we’re turning our attention to digitizing your old files. Each of the following tools can help.
- Canon Multi-Function Devices (MFD) located around campus allow you to scan one item at a time, or multiple items using the feeder. Scans are saved as pdf documents and are sent to you via email. See this document for step-by-step instructions.
- If you have an iPad, there are many scanning apps you can install that use the iPad’s built-in camera. Genius Scan, for example, allows you to scan documents, export them as JPEG or multi-page PDF files, then export files by email or save to Google Drive, Dropbox, Evernote, and more. Other options include TurboScan or Scanner Pro.
- If the apps mentioned above do not give you the quality scan that you need, you need a feeder to scan many documents at one time, and need to be mobile, there are portable scanners on the market worth exploring. Scanners that connect to your iPad include Evernote ScanSnap ($495) or the Doxie Go ($199). For more, look at Lifehacker’s five recommended “Best Documents Scanners for Going Paperless.”
- Have large format material or books that you need scanned? The Linda Lear Center has a BookEye 4 scanner which features fast scans of large format material with high resolution. To use the scanner, schedule an appointment with Becky Parmer or Ben Panciera.
Image credit: A pile of paper
