A scanner is used to transfer text or photos (illustrations) to the computer.

like a photocopier it scans a full page with laser light but instead of printing copies, it transmits the image and text to the computer as digital code, which can be saved as a file.

In effect, it performs the exact opposite function to a printer by converting a printed page into a computer file.

There are also hand held scanners which can be wiped over the page but they have to be used very slowly and carefully for good results.

Can alter or enhance the image, print it out or use it on your Web page.

Scanners are usually connected to the computer's parallel or USB port.