Pen
Scanners
Before you go out and purchase a pen
scanner, you should have a basic understanding of the different
types of pen scanners and how each of them can be used. There
are a number of different manufacturers including Planon,
IRISPen, and Wizcom who each make a variety of models with
different features. Each of these models will fit into one of
three basic categories of pen scanners. Once you determine
which of these categories best suits your need, it will be much
easier to determine which pen scanner is right for
you.
Basic Text Pen
Scanner
The most basic function of
these types of scanners is scanning text on paper and
converting it into an electronic document. Most of these
scanners use a technology called OCR (optical character
recognition) that converts an image into text. If you're just
looking to take notes from a book, brochure, or another simple
document, this type of pen scanner will be just right for
you.
These types of scanners can also come with a number of
additional features including text to speech, touch screens,
language translation, and many more. As is the case with most
technology, the more features the more money it will cost you.
Some of the more popular models of this type of pen scanner
include the Planon DocuPen, Wizcom Infoscan, and IRISPen
Express.
Language Translation
Pen Scanner
There is an entire pen
scanner category specifically designed to translate languages.
A number of devices have translation capabilities, but they are
more of an afterthought and not very capable. Language
translation pen scanners on the other hand, are designed from
the ground up to be highly adept at translating languages.
These scanners will usually feature word-for-word translations
and can instantly read back the translated text.
In addition, the majority of these models offer the features
found in your basic text pen scanner. The IRISPen Translator 6
pen scanner is one of the more popular translator models and
can recognize 128 languages. The Wizcom Quicktionary pen
scanner is also highly capable at language translation. These
types of scanners are perfect for international travelers and
anyone studying a foreign
language.
High End / Executive Pen
Scanner
Along with the previously mentioned types
of pen scanners, there is also a high-end, executive type that
offers the most features. If you want the best in class, top of
the line pen scanner, this is the type to go for. These devices
will typically offer more memory space, advanced editing
capabilities, language translation, and increased scanning
accuracy into a portable pen scanner that is designed to
impress. The IRISPen Executive 6 model is one of the more
popular units in this particular category.
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