Epson has released its first entry-level flatbed scanners with a built-in ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) chip that allows image processing to take place on the scanner itself.

 

July 2003: Epson has released its first entry-level flatbed scanners with a built-in ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) chip that allows image processing to take place on the scanner itself.
This makes the scanner faster and ensures processing times on the PC are reduced after the physical scan is completed, freeing up the PC for other tasks. Two new models are available: the Perfection 1670 and Perfection 1670 Photo. The “Photo” model has a fully integrated Transparency Unit (TPU) that supports simultaneous scanning of strip film (three frames) and slides (two frames) at a time and automatically saves each image as a separate image file.

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Both units are supplied with a new scanner driver that supports several photo restoration facilities, including dust removal and colour restoration. The latter can restore faded photographs to their original colours. Also bundled with each scanner is a software suite containing ArcSoft PhotoImpression, ABBY FineFiller for Optical character recognition, ABBY Form Filler for filling in fields on scanned forms, Presto Bizcard which scans business cards directly to your business card database, Presto PixExpress which allows scanning of images directly to a handheld Personal Digital Assistant and Epson’s Scan-to-Web and Photo Print applications.
Both scanners feature USB 2.0 interfaces for fast file downloads. The Perfection 1670 is expected to sell for approximately $249, while the Perfection 1670 Photo is priced at around $299. Full details can be found at www.epson.com.au.