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

Rotary Cameras

Scanner Cameras - See Document Scanners & Digitisers

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