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A flatbed scanner is designed for prints, though some have adapters to scan film at what is typically a lower resolution. Conversely, a film scanner is designed to scan directly from negatives and slides. Unlike most film scanners, which can be expensive, the PrimeFilm 1800AFL from Pacific Image Electronics is inexpensive at $399 and, more important, it does a good job. The 1800AFL has an 1,800-dpi optical resolution, 42-bit color mode, 3.2 dynamic range, and autofocus. The company also offers a higher end 3,600-- dpi version (PF 3600 PRO), as well as a less expensive ($299) 1,800-dpi consumer version (PF 1800 i).
Installation of the 1800AFL scanner is a snap - all you do is plug it into an outlet and the computer. The scanner offers a USB interface, so the computer detects the scanner and prompts for the CD. I had it up and running in less than five minutes. You begin the scan by feeding it a strip of...