The original idea behind scanning an image is in many cases reproducing it. This requires a plotter or a printer in addition to the scanner. Scanner/plotters, which have plotting facilities in addition to scanning, are growing in popularity today. Their main advantage is in the uninterrupted workflow from image acquisition to reproduction. They also result in saving workspace. Total self-sufficiency of the unit is another remarkable feature. They are available in color as well as black and white, with good accuracy and high image quality. Copiers are also available with optional scanning and plotting facilities. The main field of application of scanner-plotters is in reproducing engineering drawings, graphs, charts, figures and other documents. Cartographers and city planners have great use for scanner/plotter with good optical resolution. The resolution of both the scanner and the plotter are usually chosen to be the same except in cases where enlargement is required.

Though flatbed scanners are more popular, drum-type scanner/plotters are also in great demand due to the virtually unlimited length of medium they can handle. The plotter is usually of ink-jet type. They have an excellent resolution and can reproduce a very wide range of colors on paper.

The chief drawback of a scanner/plotter is, however, the reduced flexibility of operations. For example, if any one of the scanner and the plotter develops a complaint, then both will have to go out of use. Again, since the weight of the combined unit will be about twice that of the individual units, transportation for repair and maintenance also costs more.

HP DesignJet 815MFP large format scanner and plotter is one versatile scanner/plotter commercially available. It has a resolution of 2400x1200 dpi, handles paper up to 42 inches wide, and prints at a speed of thirty-six square feet per hour. KYOCERA Mitas KM- 4840W is a large format copier with optional plotting and scanning facilities. Screen and Contex are among other leading manufacturers.