OCR scanning??

[skibum]

Customer is telling me they used to be able to scan a document and have it searchable but now it doesn't work? Is this their software or the copier? The machine is a Copystar CS5050 same as a KM5050.

They said this is how they do it....> This is how we use the function:
> Send/fax button
> Color image
> Original image
> For OCR
> Ok


Any ideas why it would not work anymore? Thank you!!

[tmaged]

Re: OCR scanning??

That doesn't do any OCRing. It changes the document type to OCR, so the images are more solid for easier OCRing. You would need a software installed to OCR the document, many of which are available for free.

[skibum]

Re: OCR scanning??

The customer is scanning to email and opening emailed attachment in Outlook then they have a search window on the upper right part of the screen. They would type part of the text in the document and that area that matches is highlighted.

It is sounding more to be a computer software problem. It scans with the settings using ocr and there are no errors at the machine. The document is at the destination.

Any other thoughts would be appreciated.

[tmaged]

Re: OCR scanning??

Only the new Kyocera's can OCR the document right from the machine. Any previous models HAD to have some sort of OCR software installed on a computer or server to make a text searchable PDF. You would need Paperport, Kyocapture or DMS Link (only HyPas machines). There is other third party software available.
There's no possible way to have a 5050 scan to email and have a searchable PDF.

[KenB]

Re: OCR scanning??

I guess it doesn't help that some manufacturers have "OCR" as a scan choice.

It practically screams that the pages will be OCR'd, but such is not the case.

As Tony explained, all it does is clean up the image a bit to make it OCR a bit cleaner.

it sounds like your customer has an OCR program that has a plug in for Outlook.

There are a bazillion OCR applications out there, ranging from almost (if not) free, to very expensive.

It all depends what features they want, and the degree of accuracy desired. News flash: OCR is NOT an exact science; too many variables.

[nmfaxman]

Re: OCR scanning??

They always blame the machine for free computer support.
Once it leaves the machine, it is no longer your problem.
Tell them to RTFB or call a computer tech.

Just my two cents worth.

[skibum]

Re: OCR scanning??

Thanks for all the responses. I was telling them all along it was the software within the computer. This customer would just say well there is a button for ocr "it should work". This was a very disrespectful customer who is looking to get what ever they can for free.

Best wishes to all....