Film Scanner Repair Services

What Is a Film Scanner, and How Does It Work?

In a basic sense, a film scanner does exactly what it sounds like it does. It’s a device which is designed for scanning photographic film directly into a digital format, without any need for intermediate printmaking. For the purposes of capturing film-based images, a dedicated film scanner has several advantages over a flatbed scanner. Not only can it scan prints; it also can accept original negatives or slides. Many film scanners also have built-in capabilities for removing scratches, film grain issues, and other blemishes & imperfections.

Some individual consumers purchase low-end film scanners for personal use, but there are also several high-end film scanner applications commonly used in commercial settings. Photography labs and photo developing services use commercial film scanners, and these kinds of scanners are also utilized in self-service photo kiosks around the world. Need some help with your film scanner? AES has extensive experience servicing both commercial photo processing equipment and self-service photo kiosks.

What Are Some Common Problem Issues with Film Scanners?

Commercial- and industrial-quality film scanners are engineered to provide quality service for many years. But even so, film scanners have many moving parts which require periodic maintenance, and some scanners can eventually break down over time. And whenever there’s a problem with your film scanner, that can throw a wrench into your whole image processing system. Here are some of the common issues we see in our work on this type of specialized equipment at AES:

Underexposed or overexposed film

In some cases, the problem isn’t actually with your film scanner equipment; it could simply be an issue of film underexposure or overexposure. Underexposed scans can look dark, faded, grainy, or faint. Overexposed film, on the other hand, often looks dull, gray, and has too great of a contrast.

Obstructions in the film scanner

The most common cause of scan degradation is the intrusion of dust or other airborne contaminants. The orientation of most primary scan mirrors makes them susceptible to debris falling from the media itself, as well as to dust which can settle in from the scanner environment. Standard servicing of this issue includes careful cleaning of the primary mirror in the optical path.

Scanner jams or clogs

If your film media is starting to get stuck on a more regular basis, the issue could be with the rollers, belts, and gears which move your media through the scanner system. Failure to maintain these essential components can result in erratic image captures, jams, or complete scanning failures. These types of moving components can and do wear out eventually, and may simply require repair or refurbishing.

Electronic component failures

Sometimes the issue can be a failure with an internal printed circuit board (PCB), or an issue with the USB port or other data connection points. Thankfully, most issues like these are completely repairable in the hands of a dedicated scanner technician.

Hard-to-find replacement parts

Sometimes pinpointing where the issue lies isn’t the main challenge; you may be able to isolate the source of the problem, but you simply don’t have the parts, tools, or experience to be able to address it. In cases like these, it’s really best to partner with a trained imaging repair professional like AES. We have extensive experience in working on this type of equipment, and we also have the most needed parts for these types of repairs in stock.

Film Scanner Repair at AES

Got some issues with your film scanner that need addressing? Don’t just assume that it needs replacing; just send that film scanner to us instead! The AES team has developed a proven process for accurately diagnosing, repairing, and restoring film scanners, as well as other types of commercial imaging equipment:

Just Send It On

Pack your film scanner (along with any other equipment that needs repair) with protective material, and then send it on over! If you’re able to describe any specific failures or issues you’ve been experiencing, that can help our repair technicians as well. But either way, send it on, and we can diagnose it for you promptly.

Shipping Details

Ship your items to AES at 101 Technology Lane, Mount Airy, NC 27030, with your company name, your name, and a phone number at which you can be reached. If you’re within easy driving distance, you can also just drop your equipment off in person, if you prefer. We’ll take it from there!

Item Check-in, Troubleshooting, & Repair Quote

Once we receive your film scanner, we’ll check it into our system and assign it a unique tracking ID. We’ll then proceed to give your equipment a thorough analysis through our expert troubleshooting and evaluation process. At that point, we’ll be able to generate a repair & service quote detailing exactly what needs to be done in order to restore your equipment to pristine condition.

Personalized Follow-Up

Your individual, personal Customer Service Representative will then reach out to inform you about what we’ve learned in analyzing your film scanner. Your representative will also share the repair cost quote, and will be happy to help answer any questions you may have.

Now, Let’s Make It Happen!

Once you give us the “official” green light, we’ll get your repair right on our technician team’s schedule, and then we’ll get right to work! We’ll complete all needed repairs, maintenance, and refurbishment, and we’ll give your film scanner the individual attention it deserves. AES does the job right for you the first time, and any other time you need us! Once everything is finished, we’ll carefully package your item(s) for a safe return, and then we’ll promptly ship everything back to you. Or if you dropped off your equipment in person, we’ll notify you that it’s now ready for pickup.

AES Works with All Major Brands of Photo Kiosks & Commercial Printer Applications

Facing some challenges with your photo kiosk, industrial printer, or commercial printer application? There’s no need to fret. AES can offer you a cost-effective solution by providing effective, timely repairs! We work with a wide range of products; here are just a few of the popular brand names we’ve serviced:

• Kodak
• Fuji
• Shinko
• Zebra
• Lite-on
• Mitsubishi
• And more! Nobody beats our imaging equipment repair services!

Why You Should Entrust AES with Your Film Scanner Repair Services

Replacing a commercial film scanner or similar piece of equipment can get pretty expensive. The good news is that replacement doesn’t have to your only option – partner with the AES team for a better, more affordable repair solution! Here are some more specific reasons you should choose AES:

Repair When You Need It

Troubleshooting, testing, repairing, and refurbishing a film scanner will require a certain amount of time in order to complete it correctly. But thankfully, our imaging repair team is specially equipped for the task, and we’re both effective and efficient in our approach. We offer a quick turnaround time of 8-10 business days for most projects, but we can also provide a RUSH turnaround time of 1-3 business days, if you so designate when placing your repair order. We’ll work hard to meet your desired turnaround timetable!

The Best-Trained, Most-Experienced Repair Technicians in the Business

To give you an idea of the respect we’ve earned in the imaging equipment space, Kodak has chosen to make AES its exclusive photo kiosk service provider. We also service many other popular brands, including Fuji, Shinko, Zebra, Lite-On, Mitsubishi, and more! When it comes to repairing commercial imaging equipment, nobody takes better care of you than AES. And not only is our team experienced, but we also continue to invest in regular, ongoing training for our technicians, so we’ll always be well-poised to serve your needs.

Personalized Attention to Your Needs

Many commercial repair organizations can make you feel like nothing more than “just a number.” Thankfully, AES does business a little differently. Every individual customer and every client relationship really matters to us! You’ll be assigned to a personal representative who will serve as your single point of contact to guide you through every step, and also keep you up to date on our progress.

More Affordable Solutions

Why pay to replace an expensive piece of imaging equipment like a commercial film scanner, when our team can repair and refurbish it for LESS? In addition, we’ll return it to you in like-new or even better-than-new condition! One of the things our clients like best is the way AES comes alongside to meet their repair needs in a timely manner, while also saving them money, time, and lots of potential frustrations in the process!

Industry’s Best Warranty!

And here’s another game-changer about AES. Most repair providers try to sell you on their services, but then they don’t necessarily back up their repairs with a meaningful warranty. At AES, we believe in the quality of our workmanship to the point that we offer a 24-Month Limited Warranty for ALL REPAIRS! If a problem that’s deemed to be related to our workmanship should arise during the warranty period, AES will provide any needed follow-up repair service at no additional charge!

Trust AES for Your Film Scanner Repair & Service Needs

Ready to get your film scanner back online, and working smoothly the way you expect? We can make that happen for you; AES has you covered! Reach out today at (866) 386-1001, and let us provide you with your ideal repair solution! We’re standing by to help!