Microfiche, Microfilm and Aperture Card Scanning

Microfiche, Aperture Card, and Microfilm Scanning Services

What Type Of Microform Do I Have?

16mm Microfiche

16mm microfiche typically contains A3/A4 size documents and the frame is 6x4 inches.

35mm Microfiche

Typically contain documents which range from A3, A2, A1 and A0 in size, such as large-format drawings or plans.

COMBI Microfiche

COMBI microfiche contains a combination of standard and large format drawings.

16mm Microfilm Reels

Typically holds up to 2,400 documents between A4-A3 in size.

35mm Microfilm Reels

Typically hold up to 600 images between A2-A0 in size.

Aperture Card

Small and rectangular, typically measuring 3×5 inches, with a cutout in the centre that contains a microfilm image or data.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Storetec?

  We pride ourselves on our certified approach, conducting regular audits to meet ISO, BS10008, and Cyber Essentials Plus requirements. Our experienced team, with a solution-focused culture, ensure the best outcomes for our clients. Our state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge equipment enable tailored, efficient solutions. These combined have earned us the title of BPO/Outsourcing/Bureau Business of the Year at the Document Manager Awards for ten years, showcasing our dedication to excellence.

• What is microform scanning?

  Microform scanning is the process of converting microfilm, microfiche, or aperture card documents into digital formats. Microfilm, microfiche, and aperture cards are miniature photographic copies of documents, often used for long-term archival storage.

• Why is microform scanning necessary?

  Microform scanning is necessary to preserve and modernise access to valuable historical or archival documents that are stored on microfilm, microfiche, or aperture cards. Digitising them makes the content more accessible and searchable.

• What types of microforms can be scanned?

  Microform scanning can be applied to various types of microforms, including microfilm reels, microfiche sheets and aperture cards.

• How is microform scanning done?

  Storetec use a specialised microfiche scanner to capture high-resolution images of each frame on the microfilm, microfiche, or aperture cards. These images are then converted into digital files.

• Can microform scanning include OCR (Optical Character Recognition)?

  Yes, OCR can be applied to the scanned images to convert them into searchable and machine-readable text, making it easier to find specific information within the digitised microforms.

• What are the benefits of microform scanning?

  Microform scanning offers benefits such as improved accessibility, preservation of fragile originals, efficient storage, enhanced searchability, and the ability to share and distribute digital copies.

• What is the difference between aperture card and microfiche?

  Aperture cards and microfiche are both microforms used for document storage but differ in format and usage. Aperture cards are punched cards with a microfilm chip, commonly used for engineering drawings and large-format documents, and integrate well with data processing systems. In contrast, microfiche is a flat sheet of film containing multiple micro-images in a grid, ideal for storing periodicals and archival records. Aperture cards are stored in card trays, while microfiche is stored in sleeves or filing cabinets. Each requires specialised equipment for viewing and digitisation, with aperture cards suited for automated retrieval and microfiche offering compact, easily duplicated storage.

• What is the difference between microfiche and microfilm?

  Microfiche and microfilm are both used for miniaturised document storage but differ in format. Microfiche is a flat sheet of film with multiple images arranged in a grid, stored in sleeves or filing cabinets, and used for periodicals and records. Microfilm is a continuous roll of film stored on spools, ideal for archiving large volumes like newspapers and legal records. Microfiche is suited for discrete document collections, while microfilm is better for sequential and extensive data storage.