In summary
Overall performance and image quality was high. Scanning times varied with image size, output resolution and processing applied during the scan. Our tests produced the following scan times: . . [more]
Full review
Epson Perfection 2480PhotoScanner
Epson’s entry-level Perfection 2480 Photo flatbed/film scanner has a built-in transparency unit that takes a six-frame strip of 35mm film plus two mounted slides. A dedicated ASIC chip matches scanning speeds to the USB 2.0 capabilities (12 Mbit/sec in Full Speed mode and 480 Mbit/sec in Hi-Speed mode), ensuring reasonably fast scans. Three scanning modes are provided: Full Auto, Home and Professional. In Home mode, you can view an enlarged preview and flip or rotate the scan. Professional mode adds the ability to crop, resize and make colour adjustments via the Configuration button on the interface page.
Overall performance and image quality was high. Scanning times varied with image size, output resolution and processing applied during the scan. Our tests produced the following scan times:
- One A4 colour print using Epson Scan at highest JPEG quality – 33 seconds
- One 10 x 15cm print to A4 size at 300dpi – 46 seconds
- One 35mm frame at 300dpi for A4 output – 1 minute 55 secs
- One 35mm frame at 4800dpi same size output – 3 minutes
Adding dust removal doubled the scan time but grain reduction and colour restoration added little extra.
Strengths
- Excellent results at high resolution settings
- Competitive price for features
- Excellent bundled software
Weaknesses
- Dust removal misses large spots
- Unsharp masking can soften images
Specifications
Scanning head: 6-line alternated colour CCD with on-chip microlens
Optical resolution: 2400 x 4800dpi with Micro Step Drive
Output resolution: 25dpi to 12,800dpi (50 to 6400dpi in 1dpi increments, 12,800dpi performed with zoom function)
Bit depth: 16-bit grey scale, 48-bit colour
Interface: USB 2.0 (Type B Receptacle Connector)
Dimensions (wxdxh): 275 x 419 x 86mm
Weight: approx. 3.0 kg
RRP: $299
Distributor: Epson Australia, phone 1300 131 928, www.epson.com.au.
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