Problem with Epson 4870 Photo - Help!

[David Karp]

Hi all,

I recently got my hands on an Epson 4870 PHOTO. It received very little use before now.

After downloading the latest version of the Epson TWAIN driver and scanning utility, I tried to scan a couple of test negatives I made recently with a new lens, using the 4x5 negative holder (with both spots on the holder occupied). All I am able to get is the scan shown in the attached file on the left below. I then loaded Silverfast SE, and got the same result.

After fiddling around for a while, I tried scanning a document on the flatbed. It worked perfectly. Then I scanned an old 8 x 10 print. It also worked fine (see below right).

Any ideas on what might be wrong (with the scanner or the operator)?

I appreciate any suggestions. I have done a little bit of scanning with an Epson 1650, and even less with this scanner before it came into my possession, but basically know very little about scanning.

Thanks.

[neil poulsen]

It looks to me like the light isn't on that shines through the transparent negative.

Have you specified that you are scanning transparent, versus reflective media?

Did you remove the white, foam pressure plate on the top of the scanner?

Is the top plugged into the bottom. That connection can be kind of finicky on my 4870.

It's also possible that the light doesn't work. Hopefully not, though.

[Songyun]

Try to have a lower resolution first, say 300dpi, see if that works. Sometimes I use high resolution like 2000dpi on 4X5 with ice it shows like that.

[Photomax]

There are two power buttons the 4870, one for the power and one for the film light: make sure both are on. Make sure the white cover adapter is removed from the lid. Then pick the correct mode and film choice. Use the Preview function and you should be fine. The 4870 is a great scanner for the money...

Max

[David Karp]

You guys are great -- And I am feeling kind of stupid.

It was the white pressure plate. I feel just like when I forget to pull the darkslide!

I have not scanned for over 2 years. That's my excuse, and I am sticking to it.

Thanks for the help.

[neil poulsen]

There are two power buttons the 4870, one for the power and one for the film light: make sure both are on. Make sure the white cover adapter is removed from the lid. Then pick the correct mode and film choice. Use the Preview function and you should be fine. The 4870 is a great scanner for the money...

Max

I'm familiar with the power button on the front. Where's the power button for the film light? Is it the locking mechanism that's on the underside of the top?