Need help finding suitable scanner

[Chess007]

I want a scanner that will scan books and save the results as text files. In order to use a flatbed scanner one has to open the book and practically break its back (the binding). That is not a suitable solution. Also, scanners usually save the results as picture files.

Does anyone know of a hardware solution to this problem? I remember when i was first learning about computers (in the early 90's) there was a 'hand scanner'. But i have yet to find one that uses an interface other than isa.

[hard candy]

I read about this at the library of all places. You would need a good ocr program to run in linux. The drawback is the cost- you may find it cheaper elsewhere. http://www.shipitforyou.com/plustek/
It is not supported by sane though. http://www.sane-project.org/sane-mfgs.html#Z-PLUSTEK

[timothykaine]

A lot of the newer Epson flatbed scanners have both OCR support (scan to text) and a little hinge that raises the lid parallel to the books spine. They boast excellent resolution, and last time I checked had rather good Linux support. Check out their website and see if anything catches your eye.

Id suggest you avoid Canon products like the plague. They often break easily and have sloppy drivers.

Microtek seems to have a lot of these nice features too, but you might want to google for some reviews on them as Im not sure about their support or durability.