Cameras for Producing Microforms
Planetary cameras have a flat surface (platen) on which documents are
placed for filming from above - this makes them suitable for bound books,
maps, plans etc. A means of varying the distance between the camera and the
platen and thus the reduction ratio is frequently incorporated. Some
planetary cameras can accept very large originals (A0 or above) and models
are available for producing all film formats including microfiche.
Rotary cameras are designed for fast filming of single sheets or
continuous stationery and many models can simultaneously film both sides of
a page. The film and the document are in synchronised motion during exposure
and output is always 16mm roll film with images in simplex, duplex or duo
mode. Several service houses have sales agencies for one or more of the
suppliers listed below but we have listed the prime UK manufacturers and
importers. The manufacturer's name, if different, is shown in italics.
Scanner cameras can scan and digitise documents and simultaneously
microfilm them. Models are available for 16mm roll and microfiche, they are
listed under
Document Scanners & Digitisers.
(Companies highlighted in yellow are helping to finance this site.
Their names are hyperlinked to their address details from where
other hyperlinks will take you to their own websites. For other
suppliers click "Addresses" on left, then the first letter of the company
name.)

Planetary Cameras