Speedy scanner recommendation needed?

Archived from groups: alt.comp.periphs.scanner (More info?)

I'm looking for a fast scanner for OCR and casual color scans. I've used
the following scanners in the last few years: Acer 620U, HP Scanjet
(forgot the model number), Epson CX3200, and Microtek V6UPL. Of all the
scanners, Microtek is the fastest (10-15 seconds for a A4 to legal scan)
and HP being the second.

I have an opportunity to purchase a new scanner for work, and would like
to know if there is another scanner that performs better and faster than
Microtek V6UPL. Color isn't of the most important issue. I think most
scanners today are fine for regular use (like images for web).

Although I like Microtek's speed and software, I don't like it's build.
It does not feel as sturdy as HP and Epson. The glass of my Microtek
detached once from the scanning surface due to long term pressure of
pressing hard on the books. It sometimes makes big noises before each
scan like it is going to break (especially if you press the books or
materials too hard). Also I suspect it does not last very long. Mine
breaks within 1.5 years of use. I probably scanned 5,000 to 10,000 pages
from it.

Important factors:
- Speedy scan especially in line arts and grayscale. It appears some
scanners are faster in color scans than other scanners while slower in
B/W. My Microtek one is an example of fast b/w but slow in color
scanning.
- Good black and white scan especially in creating nice dithered B/W
images from color or grayscale images
- Nice if it scans in legal size

Any suggestions?


Thanks for the help,


cpliu