Scanner
Scanner
A computer scanner is an input device that captures images, documents, or objects and converts them into a digital format that a computer can store, edit, or share.
How a Scanner Works
Place a document or photo on the scanner.
A light scans the surface.
Sensors detect the reflected light.
The scanner converts the information into a digital image.
The image is saved on the computer as a file (such as PDF, JPG, or PNG).
Common Types of Scanners
1. Flatbed Scanner
Most common type
Documents are placed on a glass surface
Good for photos, books, and paperwork
2. Sheet-Fed Scanner
Feeds paper through automatically
Ideal for scanning large numbers of documents
3. Handheld Scanner
Moved manually across the document
Portable and convenient for travel
4. Portable/Mobile Scanner
Small, lightweight scanner
Often powered by USB or battery
5. 3D Scanner
Captures the shape and dimensions of objects
Used in engineering, manufacturing, and design
Uses of a Scanner
Digitizing paper documents
Storing photos electronically
Creating PDF files
Sending documents by email
Optical Character Recognition (OCR) to convert scanned text into editable text
Example
If you have a paper resume and scan it, the scanner can create a PDF file that you can upload to job websites or email to employers.
In simple terms: A scanner is like a photocopier that sends the copy to your computer instead of printing it on paper.
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