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At The Scanner Shop, we offer a range of large-format scanners, including A0, A1, and A2 models for scanning large documents, blueprints, and artwork.
Browse state-of-the-art large-format scanning solutions from leading brands like Colortrac and Contex, designed with reprographics companies, design studios, architects, chartered surveyors and the armed forces in mind.
A0 vs A1 vs A2 Scanners: Which size do you need?
An A2 scanner is a good choice for smaller posters, artwork, and technical drawings up to 420 × 594mm, making it handy for artists, teachers, and creative designers.
If you deal with architectural plans or engineering drawings daily, an A1 scanner can handle larger sheets measuring 594 × 841mm.
For even larger documents, an A0 scanner handles sheets measuring 841 × 1189mm, making it ideal for scanning building plans, maps, and large-scale designs.
CIS vs CCD large-format scanners: What's the difference?
When comparing large format scanners, you'll usually come across two sensor technologies: CIS and CCD.
CIS (Contact Image Sensor) scanners are generally more compact and affordable, making them a practical choice for everyday large-format scanning of technical drawings, plans, and documents.
CCD (Charge-Coupled Device) scanners use a camera-based optical system and can offer better depth of field, which helps when scanning artwork with texture or uneven surfaces.
If you're looking for a large-format scanner for artwork, a CCD model or a specialist large-format flatbed scanner is worth the extra investment.
Portable vs floor-standing large format scanners
If you tend to move about when working, then investing in a portable scanner is a no-brainer.
The Colortrac SmartLF Scan 36 comes with a wheeled carry case, so it's easy to transport between your office and site visits, perfect for freelancers or people who go back and forth between offices.
If you’d prefer a floor-standing scanner with more capability, our floor-standing scanners from Colortrac and Contex are popular for businesses that do regular A1 scanning or handle larger batches of documents.
Compare our large format scanners
Here's a quick look at four popular models to help you narrow down your choices.
Prices are starting prices for the models shown, excluding VAT. Scanning speeds are measured under different settings, so they're not directly comparable.
What can large-format scanners be used for?
A large-format scanner can be useful for more industries than you think.
Architects and engineers use them to digitise drawings, while surveyors rely on them for maps, site plans, and records.
They also come in handy for artists and photographers who want to digitise their artwork or images, while archives and museums can use specialist large-format scanners to preserve historical documents and old artefacts without causing damage.
FAQs
What is a large format scanner?
A large-format scanner is designed to scan oversized documents that won't fit into a standard A4 or A3 scanner.
Architects, engineers, surveyors, and designers commonly use them to digitise everything from building plans and technical drawings to maps, posters, and artwork, and they can handle documents up to A2, A1, A0, and even larger sizes.
How does a large format scanner work?
Large-format scanning works much like regular document scanning, just on a bigger scale. Depending on the model, you either feed your document through the scanner or place it on a flatbed.
The scanner then uses its imaging sensors to capture the document and turn it into a digital file. You can usually adjust settings such as resolution, colour, and file format to get the results you want.
Once scanning is complete, your document can be saved as a PDF, JPEG or TIFF file, depending on the scanner and software you're using.
What are the key benefits of using a large-format scanner?
The main benefits of large-format scanners include:
- High-quality scans
- Saves valuable space and limits paper waste
- Easier document sharing
- Saves time by scanning large documents in one go
- Helps preserve important documents and delicate artwork
- Easier editing and organisation
What types of documents can I scan with a large-format scanner?
You can scan all types of documents, including:
- Blueprints and architectural drawings
- Maps
- Artwork and posters
- Photographs
- Technical drawings
- Textile patterns
- Historical documents
- Old artefacts
How much does an A0 scanner cost?
At The Scanner Shop, our A0 scanners currently start from £2,224 ex VAT, with options like the Colortrac SmartLF Scan 36 offering a more affordable way to scan large documents.
Do large format scanners come with software?
Yes, many large-format scanners include scanning software, but what's included depends on the model you choose.
Some include everything you need for straightforward scanning and saving files, while others offer optional software for advanced image editing, colour adjustments, and document management.
Do I need to calibrate my large-format scanner?
Yes, it's worth calibrating your scanner regularly to maintain consistent image quality and accurate colour reproduction, especially when scanning detailed artwork or technical drawings.
Many models use a dedicated calibration sheet, and some scanners include one when you buy them. You can also purchase replacement Colortrac calibration sheets from us if needed.
