Microfiche allows you to view an image from your microfilm at regular size on a screen. These machines used to be the finest solutions for backing up essential data, retrieving information, and decreasing the requirement for paper file storage.
However, in the continuously evolving digital technology age, such microformats have been outmoded as scanners gradually became the standard because of their present digital capacities. Today, image extraction from microfilm and microfiche is quite time intensive and requires large, outdated readers.
Plus, the film itself is prone to degradation and loss. Consequently, corporations and governments readily convert microfiche to digital formats. Here are some options to consider if you are also looking to upgrade from microfiche to a digital alternative.
Best Options to Replace Outdated Microformats
The information contained in microfiche archives may be invaluable but can only be accessed with the proper microfilm reader. Many archives are looking to replace their aging microfiche with more modern models with enhanced digital capabilities.
To do so, you need readers that can communicate with the cloud and desktops. Here are a few ways you can go about replacing outdated microfiche solutions to increase accessibility and security.
1. Convert Microfiche to Digital Formats
When you hear “digitization,” the first thing that likely comes to mind is traditional scanning, which entails having your microfiche and microfilm scanned to obtain PDFs or TIFs.
This is the most straightforward and time-tested method of acquiring your digital files if you plan to integrate the data into an existing database. Let’s take a look at microfilm and microfiche scanning.
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Microfilm Scanning
Scanned microfilm pictures might be either black and white or grayscale. You may save images in various formats, including TIFF, JPEG, GIF, JIF, PDF, Searchable PDF, and more. High-tech microfilm conversion scanners can scan 16mm, 35mm, and 105mm rolls or cartridges.
The best quality images are delivered thanks to skilled scanning professionals and rigorous quality assurance methods. Make sure you hire the right document scanning service to ensure your microfilm is treated with the highest care and accuracy.
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Microfiche Scanning
Since both microfilm and microfiche are photographic copies, the process of converting either to digital is equivalent. Regardless of the type of microfiche, modern scanners can read them all. While it is possible to scan over a million photos every week, that number varies depending on the quality of the microfiche cards.
2. Invest in a Modern Scanner for an In-House Solution
Another alternative is to get a brand new microfiche reader scanner. With this method, you’ll still need gear to view your data, but you’ll be able to better use your microfilm with updated hardware.
Modern readers have more intuitive interfaces than their predecessors, providing all the tools you need to examine, print, and scan your information. These machines are designed for single users to see limited amounts of data.
Although automated scanning of microfiche and microfilm is possible, working with a scanning service to convert many documents into film is the preferred option. Always go for digitization if you need the information quickly and accurately.
3. Scan on Demand to Sort through Microfiche Files
Your third choice is to examine your microfiche files to determine which ones are necessary and to eliminate the others. After you’ve culled your record collection down to its essentials, you may scan any newly requested recordings and store them safely.
If you still need to read microfiche, you may “replace” your reader by contracting with a business that offers on-demand fiche scanning services. On-demand scanning may make up for the expense of a new scanner that you’d only use a handful of times for several years.
Which Is the Best Option for You?
Converting material to searchable digital files has enormous benefits. But which option is the best for you?
Considering all, digitization is the best and the most common alternative. With this option, you won’t have to worry about microfiche records, machines, or storage issues anymore. Digital conversion initiatives can be straightforward, and you can choose different scanning methods depending on the desired outcome.
The good news is that you can outsource the task to a reputable document scanning service to streamline the process. Choosing the right service will ensure instantaneous data retrieval from microfilm and microfiche thanks to an online index and search tool.
Your employees will save a lot of effort and money by reducing their time looking for, printing, and passing out papers. More importantly, backing it up regularly will keep critical information safe from the wear and tear of time, accidental misfiling, and natural calamities that may otherwise cripple your company’s operations.
