A flatbed scanner is a peripheral device with a glass surface on which photographs, prints, artwork, or transparencies are placed to be scanned and converted into digital images. The scanner captures detailed reproductions of the original material, allowing for editing, archiving, or sharing in digital formats.
Most flatbed scanners feature an A4 scanning area, with some models capable of covering larger sizes such as A3. They are widely used by photographers, artists, and archivists to digitize physical media while preserving image quality. Flatbed scanners offer precise colour reproduction, high resolution, and versatility, making them an essential tool in both professional and personal digital imaging workflows.