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Scanning Film with the Nikon CoolScan [2008.05.13]

Back to Mac Help — Scanning


The film scanner located in the MMC can be used to scan slide film or strip film with the use of special adapters. Understanding how to effectively use the scanner and its software will help you to produce high quality results that you can store or print.


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Information about Nikon CoolScan V ED

Key Features and Technical Specifications

Download CoolScan Brochure (2.5 MB PDF)


The CoolScan V ED makes e-mailing images, designing web pages and creating digital archives fast and simple - even for first-time scanner users. The scanner also offers features and image quality previously found only in more expensive models, and a broad range of accessories that allow you to scan many different types of film.

Nikon CoolScan V ED

Click on image for more information


Location of the Film Scanner

The film scanner is located in the Marriot Library's Multimedia Center. It is near the entrance and on the wall closest to the MMC Macs used for scanning. If you have trouble finding it, please ask the Help Desk for assistance.

Location of Film Scanner

Click on image for a detailed map.



How to Start with the Film Scanner


Click on each adapter for a detailed description

Slide Film Adapter

Slide Film Adapter

Strip Film Adapter

Strip Film Adapter


How to Scan with VueScan

Step 1. Open the VueScan software from the desktop folder and turn on the Nikon scanner.

Step 2. If you are scanning with VueScan for the first time make sure to take your time and look at all the scanning options.

Step 3. Select the Source>LS-50 scanner from the menu.

Step 4. Select your media type. Media>Slide Film or Media>Color Negative.

Step 5. Select Scan Resolution>4000 dpi. It is always best to scan an image at the highest optical resolution. This option can be found by clicking on the More tab at the bottom of VueScan.

Step 6. Set Crop Size>Auto. Later you will have the choice to make selection you wish to scan.

Step 7. There are numerous adjustments to make with VueScan, however it is best to save color/sharpening/ noise reduction for Photoshop. Make sure to save your files as TIFF to avoid any image degradation. You may also want to set the default folder of where images are saved.

Step 8. Preview your scan. And make image selection with cursor. Leaving no black areas around selection as they will affect the overall scan. What you select with the cursor in Preview Mode will be the area scanned by the scanner during the actual scan.

Step 9. After you have made your final selection of image select Scan. Your image will scan to whatever folder was set. Remember to save image as TIFF to protect image quality from compressions with JPEG.


If you need further assistance please see consultants at the MMC front counter.