Fujitsu fi-6130Z desktop scanner review

The Z-Generation are new additions to Fujitsu’s fi series that aim to bring reliable document processing within reach of the smaller business. Simon Handby finds whether Fujitsu has turned a page.

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Setting up

The fi-6130Z comes with an impressive suite of applications that includes TWAIN and ISIS drivers, Kofax VRS, ABBYY FineReader OCR software and Fujitsu's ScandALL Pro scan management application.

The latter is a powerful way to manage and create profiles for single and batch scans, but it's also rather complex. As a result, we had to refer to the manuals for both the scanner and ScandALL when trying to configure the hardware Scan/Stop button to trigger a simple multi-page scan job.

Fujitsu fi-6130Z

It takes several steps to assign actions to events in the ScandALL software.

Using profiles, ScandALL can be configured to support up to 10 different scan presets that can be selected with the hardware Function button. Setting these up initially could be time-consuming, however, and there's no space on the scanner to display the preset assigned to each function, which could be confusing when more than a couple are in use.

Fujitsu also supplies management software for those looking to roll out multiple scanners across an enterprise. This involves installing an admin agent on each scanner's host PC that reports to a central admin server, which is in turn managed by a console application.

Through this powerful tool, administrators can deploy driver updates or settings changes remotely, while in return scanners can flag up errors or the need for consumables.

Fortunately for those wanting to simplify deployment and use, the default installation includes Fujitsu's excellent ScanSnap software. Once launched, this supports one-touch scans along with various simple 'scan to' options.

While not as powerful as ScandALL for advanced requirements, it is much more user-friendly in situations where walk-up users are less experienced.

Fujitsu fi-6130Z

Casual users are likely to find the excellent ScanSnap mode far easier.

Simon Handby
Simon Handby

After a brief career in corporate IT, Simon Handby combined his love of technology and writing when he made the move to Computer Shopper magazine. As a technology reviewer he's since tested everything from routers and switches, to smart air fryers and doorbells, and covered technology such as EVs, TVs, solar power and the singularity.

During more than 15 years as Shopper's long-time printer reviewer, Simon tried, tested and wrote up literally hundreds of home, small office and workgroup printers. He continues reviewing smart products and printers for a variety of publications, and has been an IT Pro contributor since 2010. Simon is almost never happier than when surrounded by printers and paper, applying his stopwatch and a seasoned eye to find the best performing, best value products for business users.