---
title: "Can you explain the basics of a computer scanner?"  
description: "Can you explain the basics of a computer scanner?"  
author: "SundarLal Sharma"  
published: 2023-10-07  
updated: 2023-10-10  
canonical: https://answers.mindstick.com/qa/102385/can-you-explain-the-basics-of-a-computer-scanner  
category: "hardware"  
tags: ["hard disk drives"]  
reading_time: 2 minutes  

---

# Can you explain the basics of a computer scanner?



## Answers

### Answer by Saumya Mishra

**A** [**computer**](https://answers.mindstick.com/qa/31650/what-is-computer-networking) **scanner is a device that captures images from physical [documents](https://www.mindstick.com/articles/156931/the-main-types-of-business-documents), such as photographs, magazines, and books, and converts them into [digital](https://www.mindstick.com/articles/85590/how-to-create-a-productive-digital-workspace) files. Digital files can then be stored on a computer, edited, and shared with others.**

1. Scanners work by using a l**ight source to illuminate** the [document](https://www.mindstick.com/articles/328642/what-to-consider-while-choosing-a-software-documentation-tool) being scanned. The reflected light is then captured by a **sensor and converted into an electrical signal.** The electrical signal is then processed by the scanner and converted into a digital image.
2. The [quality](https://www.mindstick.com/interview/329/what-is-the-quality-assurance-in-testing) of the scanned image depends on a number of factors, including the [resolution](https://www.mindstick.com/news/2526/resolution-against-anti-satellite-tests-adopted-by-un-to-reduce-space-debris) of the scanner and the type of document being scanned. Higher-resolution scanners will produce sharper and more detailed images. Documents with a lot of text and fine details, such as photographs, will also produce better results when scanned at a higher resolution.
3. Scanners come in a variety of types, including flatbed scanners, sheetfed scanners, and [portable](https://www.mindstick.com/interview/148/what-is-portable-executable-pe) scanners. **Flatbed scanners** are the most common type of scanner and can be used to scan a variety of different document types. **Sheetfed scanners** are designed to scan individual sheets of paper and are often used in offices. Portable scanners are small and lightweight, making them ideal for scanning documents on the go.

Scanners are a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of purposes, including:

- **Archiving documents.** Scanners can be used to create digital copies of important documents, such as contracts, invoices, and receipts. This can help to protect your documents from loss or damage.
- **Sharing documents.** Scanners can be used to share documents with others electronically. This can be useful for businesses and individuals who need to share documents with colleagues, [customers](https://www.mindstick.com/articles/44795/easy-ways-to-reach-more-customers), or friends.
- **[Editing](https://www.mindstick.com/startup/27/photoroom-the-ai-powered-app-transforming-photo-and-video-editing) documents.** Scanners can be used to create digital copies of documents that can then be edited using a computer [software](https://www.mindstick.com/articles/23272/why-software-localization-is-important-for-your-business) application. This can be useful for editing contracts, proposals, and other types of documents.
- **Creating digital images.** Scanners can be used to create digital copies of photographs, magazines, and other types of images. Digital images can then be stored on a computer, edited, and shared with others.


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Original Source: https://answers.mindstick.com/qa/102385/can-you-explain-the-basics-of-a-computer-scanner

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