Batch Scan

A set of crop frames used to perform multiple scans with preset properties of one or more originals.

Bi-directional

A parallel port mode for two-way communication between the printer and computer. See parallel port mode.

Binary

Numbering system consisting of the digits 1 and 0. Binary is the language of computers.

BIOS

Acronym for Basic Input/Output System. In a PC-compatible computer, a set of instructions that control basic system functions, such as starting the operating system, administrating basic data transfer, etc.

Bit

Smallest amount of memory in a computer system representing a value as on or off, or a binary value of 0 or 1.

Bit Depth

A number representing the total bits per pixel in a graphic which determine the colors and/or tones of the graphic.

Bitmap

Image consisting of tiny squares commonly called "dots" arranged into a grid pattern to form a complete picture.

Black and White

Term used to describe material scanned with line art, such as text documents or drawings.

Blur

Command used to smooth images by lightening pixels that are in sharp contrast to neighboring pixels.

BMP

Abbreviation for bitmap. File format for bitmap graphics, commonly used with Windows applications such as Windows wallpaper. Files saved in this format have ".bmp" as a file extension.

Brightness

1. The intensity of a color despite its hue. 2. A command in a scanner interface for controlling the amount of light in an image.

Browse

1. In Windows, to search for a file. 2. In the Scan Dialog box, name of the command that allows the user to select the image application associated with the Scan function.

Bundled Software

Common name for software that is included with a piece of hardware, such as image editing or OCR software that comes with a scanner.

Byte

Abbreviated word for binary term. A unit of measure for computer data. A byte consists of eight bits, which can represent a single character, digit or punctuation mark. Bytes are usually referred to in bulk terms such as kilobytes, megabytes or gigabytes. See bit, kilobyte, megabyte and gigabyte.