I recently started using a Kodak S2070 document scanner to make high-quality scans of my card collection, but the results consistently show small, tread-like bands of similarly colored pixels across the image. They slightly distort the cards, even though the originals are not being damaged. The pattern appears on both sides of the scans and is visible at both 300 dpi and 600 dpi. I have cleaned the accessible glass and plates, but I have not disassembled the scanner for a deeper cleaning. Could this be a hardware, feeder, or roller problem rather than ordinary dirt? Also, are these cards within the scanner's supported size range?
3 Answers
Make sure the cards meet the S2070's minimum supported dimensions and are being fed in the intended way. Small cards can sometimes sit against the rollers or guides incorrectly, causing repeating bands or distortion. If the same pattern appears with a normal-sized sheet of paper, that would strongly suggest a hardware or sensor issue.
Defects that repeat across the image and affect both sides usually point more toward a scanner or feeding problem than the cards themselves. Since the unit is new, I would document the issue with a test scan and consider exchanging or returning it rather than taking it apart and risking the warranty.
Cleaning the accessible glass is a good first step, but buildup on an internal roller or sensor could still cause streaking. Before disassembling anything, run the scanner's recommended cleaning and calibration procedure, check for debris in the feeder path, and test at both resolutions. Persistent defects after that are a good reason to have the scanner serviced or replaced.
The close-up pattern looks consistent with a mechanical or image-sensor fault, especially if it also appears on regular paper. I would try one clean sheet as a comparison, then contact the seller or Kodak support if the lines remain.