OCR (Optical Character Recognition) is a procedure whereby printed literature is converted into a word processing or text files, which can be stored and edited easily. This technology has allowed for more space-efficient storage of such literature, compared to the hard copy versions. OCR technology has greatly influenced the manner in which data is shared, edited and stored. Before this technology emerged, if somebody wished to convert a paperback into a text file, all of its’ pages would be needed to be manually typed out.
Frequently, OCR is used as a ‘secret’ technology, helping to run many services and systems that are a key part of the day to day life. If the office you used to work in had a paper scanner, you are probably already familiar with the acronym OCR. Less well known, but equally as significant, uses for this technology are automated number plate recognition, document indexing for search engines, data input automation, along with helping visually impaired and blind people.
A decade ago, it was hard to select the right OCR software, because many applications were fairly poor at some tasks, and quite satisfactory at others. Nowadays though, the technological shortcomings have been largely addressed. Rates of accuracy in any decent translation software for typed Latin scripts are over ninety-nine percent. With regards to detailed typefaces and inputting handwriting, however, the range for OCR software is still reasonably high.
Hardware is needed for OCR as well. Moreover, advanced OCR systems need extra circuit boards inside the computers to work properly. The page text is scanned by an optical scanner, which then separates the fonts into a dot sequence known as a bitmap. This software can interpret most font styles and identify where lines begin and end. After this, the bitmap is converted into a computer-friendly text.
OCR Technology rose to prominence during the early nineties, while trying to digitize old newspapers. Ever since the technology has undergone numerous enhancements. Modern programs deliver close to flawless accuracy. Sophisticated techniques, such as Zonal OCR, can automate complicated workflows based on documents.
OCR software prices vary greatly, usually depending on the rate of accuracy they boast. A reasonable quantity of free software is available, which can be used to input printed matter. Other free software is quite effective at handwriting detection, particularly with some practice. The more costly software applications boast a comprehensive range of features and typically higher rates of success.
