Flatbed Scanner & Transparency Unit for 2D Root Imaging
Epson flatbed scanners are the first choice of root researchers worldwide for reliable analysis of root morphological parameters. In line with our aim to provide a one-stop-shop experience, Vienna Scientific thus offers modified Epson scanners - ready for root imaging. Check out the semi-automatic Root Washer if you frequently rinse roots from mineral soil for imaging.
Fladbed Scanner / "Root Imager" for Root Scanning in Trays
2D Root Imager. Flat-bed 2D Root scanners are often used to analyse roots by placing the roots on the glass surface or, better still, water-filled scan trays. The resulting 2D root image can be analysed using root image analysis software to determine the length, diameter and other characteristics of the roots. CCD Flatbed scanners ('root imager') with a transparency unit are more suitable for root analysis as they:
- have a higher dynamic range and can capture more detail including subtle variations in colour and contrast, and
- often have a higher resolution (e.g. up to 2400 x 4800 dpi) and more precise microstepers, as they are designed to capture images at a higher level of detail.
- Most importantly, the transparency unit provides illumination from above, i.e. the illumination is not positioned next to the sensor head, which in particular avoids shadows - which are not detected by thresholding image analysis, making roots parallel to the scan head appear wider, leading to miscalculations of diameter and volume (both of which are overestimated) per (incorrectly assigned) size class by image analysis programs.
For root imaging, we therefore recommend the use of modified Epson "2D Root Imager" scanners with transparency units. The standard Epson scanners have to be slightly modified to allow the root scanning trays to be placed under the transparency unit, and for the transparency unit to function when elevated. Vienna Scientific prepares the Epson products for root analysis by adding
Additional trays for 2D root imaging can be ordered as required in the web store (or custom sized). Please contact us for details.
| Specifications |
Root Imaging Bundle A3: Epson Expression 12000XL Pro, trays |
OPEN |
| Specifications |
Root Imaging Bundle A4: Epson V850 Pro, trays |
OPEN |
Get a quote today for Epson scanners modified for root imaging ("root Imager"), and/or related root scanning trays.
Root Image Analysis Software & HoW to prEpare your Roots for scanning
We recommend using the open-source software RhizoVision Explorer for morphological analysis of the scanned roots. Check out our quick guide on how to prepare your roots for scanning.
Root Scanning Trays that fit the entire scanning area of flatbed scanners (A4, A3 sizes & custom) are available.
For root and rhizosphere imaging in situ consider our manual and automatic minirhizotron root imaging systems.
For continuous scanning of roots in soil-filled RhizoPots consider the LK-1600 Rhizopot Scanner System.