Dear Dr. Bob: I've got a stack of business cards to file. I know there's a pricey little machine that will scan them into an e-address book, but I can't justify the expense. What are my options?
- Sal Giuntini, Newmarket, NewHampshire
Dr. Bob: That $249 gadget is CardScan by Corex, the firm controlling 98 percent of the card-scanning market. Its latest software (version 6) offers some amazing features - color images of each card, better text recognition, and a secure Web page that lets you access all of your contacts.
There are a couple of cheap alternatives to Corex's dedicated scanner. I've had lots of luck using the company's stand-alone $49 software with a $129 CanoScan N656U scanner. I load eight business cards into a CardScan plastic holder, place it on the flatbed, and scan. Unlike the Corex, the Canon scanner draws power from the USB cable, so there's less hookup.
If you're really on a budget and already own a scanner, download Corex's software from www.cardscan.com. The free trial package (good for 30 days) is identical to the commercial release. You'll have to make your own card holder with black construction paper and a 10-pocket clear plastic sheet (easily found at most stationery stores). Staple the paper to the back of the plastic sheet, load in the cards, and you're good to go. See how fun belt-tightening can be?
Got a tech question? Ask Dr. Bob at askdrbob@wiredmag.com.
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