While there are many different scanners available, basic principles apply to all scanning when digitising collections. 

• Scan images at 24-bit RGB colour (48-bit for colour transparencies and negatives).
• 300 DPI minimum (you may need to go larger for small items or fine details).
• Save images as TIF files for a master copy (you can convert to other formats for online use, but for longevity or preservation copies a high quality large master file should be kept).
• Keep your file names consistent and document how they relate to your collections records. 

Step by step instructions using an Epson Expression 12000XL A3 scanner will be provided with the Digitising Collections SA Scanner available for loan. 

For more on formats and file types see the Digitisation Standards page.