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SilverFast
SilverFast
from Wikipedia
SilverFast
DeveloperLaserSoft Imaging
Initial release1995; 30 years ago (1995)
Stable release
9.2.4 / May 7, 2024; 18 months ago (2024-05-07)[1]
Operating systemWindows 7 and later
macOS 10.13 and later
PlatformX64, ARM64 (scanner dependent)
Available inMulti-lingual[which?]
TypeImage scanning, image processing
LicenseCommercial proprietary software
Websitewww.silverfast.com Edit this on Wikidata

SilverFast is a family of software for image scanning and processing, including photos, documents and slides, developed by LaserSoft Imaging. There are also other applications for image processing using digital cameras or printers, and for 48-bit raw data image processing.

History

[edit]

SilverFast was introduced in 1995 and is still under development today. Some scanner manufacturers bundle their hardware with SilverFast software. Some of the features developed for SilverFast, especially in the area of color management, error detection and automatic dust and scratch removal, have been patented. The European Digital Press Association named SilverFast the "Best colour management software of the year 2008" for improving the dynamic range of most scanners and for creating ICC profiles automatically.[2] In 2011, version 8 was introduced, and HDR imaging software followed in 2012. SilverFast 9 was released in 2020.

Patents

[edit]
  • 2005: Patent granted on barcode technology used for the Auto IT8 Calibration. (Karl-Heinz Zahorsky, EP 1594301, expired)
  • 2008: Patent granted on technology used for SilverFast Multi-Exposure@. (Karl-Heinz Zahorsky, EP 1744278, US 8,693,808)
  • 2023: Patent granted on the ExpressScan, a scanning method that reduces scanning time for flatbed scanners. (Karl-Heinz Zahorsky, EP 4109866, US 11,558,529 B2)
SilverFast HDR

Products

[edit]

SilverFast is supplied configured for the specified scanner model. If several scanners are operated, it is therefore necessary to purchase a corresponding number of additional licenses. Upgrade rates are also offered when purchasing a new scanner.

Overview of the available products:

Scanner Software HDR Software Archiving Software Photoshop Plug-ins
SilverFast SE SilverFast HDR SilverFast Archive Suite 1), 2) SRDx Plug-in
SilverFast SE Plus 1), 2) SilverFast HDR Studio
SilverFast Ai Studio 1), 2)
SilverFast X-Ray

1) including: Multi-Exposure 2) optional: ICC Printer Calibration

Optional features

[edit]

As marked in the table above, some products are available with additional features:

Multi-Exposure – an exposure blending technique for scanning transparent originals like slides, negatives, and film strips with increased dynamic range.[3] This is accomplished by scanning the original multiple times with different exposure times, increasing the dynamic range and preserving detail in the light and shadow areas of the image. [4][5] Multi-Exposure does not work with reflective originals and differs from "Multi-Sampling," which also scans multiple times but with unaltered exposure.

ICC Printer Calibration – calibrates the printer using a previously calibrated flatbed scanner as the measuring device for profiling the printer.

SilverFast scanner software

[edit]

It can be used as a stand-alone application, as a Photoshop plug-in, or as a universal TWAIN module. Versions include:

  • SilverFast SE[6] (basic edition)
  • SilverFast SE Plus[7] (plus edition / with Multi-Exposure)
  • SilverFast Ai Studio[8] (premium edition)
  • SilverFast X-Ray (a special version of SilverFast designed to digitize radiographic films for scientific and medical radiography)

SilverFast HDR software

[edit]

SilverFast HDR processes 48-bit raw images. Many newer scanners are able to output the image directly with all available data instead of reducing it to 24-bit; this 48-bit raw image can be saved immediately and digital processing performed later.

  • SilverFast HDR[9] (basic edition)
  • SilverFast HDR Studio (premium edition)

SilverFast HDR contains the functionality of SilverFast Ai Studio for 48-bit raw data, such as defining output size and resolution, auto-adjusting of highlights and shadows, three-part histogram, gradation curves, selective color correction, unsharp masking, color cast removal slider, color separation, and CMYK-preview. SilverFast HDR can be used as a native plug-in for Adobe Photoshop, as a universal TWAIN module, or as a stand-alone application.

HDR Studio has AACO (Auto-Adaptive Contrast Optimization), JPEG 2000, USMPlus (Unsharp Mask Plus), CloneTool and PrinTao.

HDRi (64Bit RAW data with infrared channel)

[edit]

With version 6.6.1 any SilverFast HDR version supports the proprietary RAW data format HDRi. These 64-bit HDRi color files and 32-bit HDRi greyscale files contain additional 16-bit infrared RAW data besides the 48-bit color RAW data and 16-bit greyscale RAW data respectively.[10][11] Therefore, a scanner with an infrared channel available to the software is necessary. This RAW format can keep any readable image information for later post-processing.

The acronym "HDR" as used by SilverFast is not related to High-dynamic-range imaging, a widely used technique to increase the dynamic range of (digital) images.

The data format is:

Format Encoding Compression Color space Color depth
(Bit per pixel)
Dynamic range
(Dimensions of 10)
Relative
gradation
HDRi
(.tif, .tiff)
RGB (linear) none RGB 64 = 48 + 16 (infrared channel) 4,8 0,0014%
RGB (linear) none RGB 32 = 16 + 16 (Infrared channel) 4,8 0,0014%

SilverFast archiving software

[edit]

The SilverFast Archive Suite includes SilverFast Ai Studio and SilverFast HDR Studio with an integrated color management system. This package is suitable for archiving slides, negatives, and photos, whereas the post-processing can take place any time after scanning.[12]

  • SilverFast Archive Suite – consisting of SilverFast Ai Studio and SilverFast HDR Studio (premium edition)

PrintTao 8

[edit]

PrintTao 8 is a discontinued software product for Canon and Epson large format printers. It could be used as a stand-alone application or as a plug-in for Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Lightroom. PrinTao 8 handled color management and all printer driver settings. It contained various printing templates such as pack templates for portrait photographers, or gallery wrap templates for printing on canvas.

SRDx Photoshop plug-in

[edit]

SRDx (Smart Removal of Defects) is a plug-in for Adobe Photoshop to remove defects like dust particles, specks, small scratches and finger prints from digital images. Most dust and scratch removal tools use blur effects which degrade overall image quality. SRDx works without any unsharpening effects. It uses an adjustable automatic detection of dust and scratches that can be fine-tuned manually using a defect marker and a rubber tool.

SilverFast DC

[edit]

SilverFast DC is a discontinued stand-alone software for digital camera image processing. It contained features for reading the image data from the camera, for processing, optimizing, and archiving the images on the computer, as well as for printing the edited images.

IT8 calibration and color management

[edit]
IT8.7/1 target by LaserSoft Imaging

Scanner calibration: SilverFast is equipped with a color management system that enables largely automated IT8 color calibration of the scanner using IT8 targets supplied by the manufacturer, LaserSoft Imaging.

  • according to ISO standard 12641-1 (from 1993): conventional standard
  • according to ISO standard 12641-2 (from 2020): new standard for a more precise IT8 calibration with about 3 times the number of measuring fields. LaserSoft Imaging cooperated for creating this standard.[13][14]

Printer calibration: SilverFast also enables printer calibration by printing a color table and then scanning it using an already calibrated scanner to create an ICC profile.

Supported devices

[edit]

SilverFast supports 325 scanners.[15] Most Microsoft Windows-only 35mm USB scanners sold under various names are not supported[citation needed]. Each scanner model requires a separate license.

Heidelberg drum scanner

[edit]

SilverFast Ai Studio supports prepress drum scanners made by Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (Linotype – Hell) on Microsoft Windows 2000, XP, Vista and 7, as well as Mac OS X 10.3-10.5 operating systems. Supported models include the Chromagraph 3300/3400, Tango/XL, Topaz, Nexscan, and Primescan.

See also

[edit]

Software supporting many scanner models:

References

[edit]

Further reading

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
SilverFast is a family of applications designed for and , particularly for , slides, , and with high-quality results, developed by the company LaserSoft Imaging AG. Founded in 1986 in , , by physicist Karl-Heinz Zahorsky, LaserSoft Imaging AG specializes in advanced tools aimed at professionals and enthusiasts in . The initial concept for SilverFast was developed by Zahorsky in 1994, evolving into a suite renowned for its sophisticated features, broad compatibility with various scanner hardware from manufacturers like , , and , and seamless integration with to achieve precise color reproduction in scanned images. Key variants include SilverFast Ai Studio, which offers automated image optimization and support for ; SilverFast HDR, a standalone 64-bit/48-bit processing tool serving as an alternative to software like ; and entry-level options like SilverFast SE for basic scanning needs, all available for both and platforms. The software has seen continuous updates, with SilverFast 9 released by the end of 2020, introducing enhancements such as improved dust and scratch removal, better support for modern scanners like the , and less obtrusive demo watermarks, reflecting over 30 years of development focused on professional-grade image quality.

Overview

Company Background

LaserSoft Imaging AG was founded in 1986 by physicist Karl-Heinz Zahorsky in , , with an initial focus on developing high-quality software solutions for , starting with color processing tools. Zahorsky, who serves as the company's current president and CEO, brought his expertise in to pioneer innovations in and targeted at professionals and enthusiasts. From its early days, LaserSoft Imaging evolved from providing foundational imaging solutions to establishing itself as a leader in the scanning software market by the , building on Zahorsky's vision for advanced . The company, headquartered in , has maintained its German base while expanding global distribution of its products to serve an international user base in and . This foundational work laid the groundwork for key developments, such as the initial concept of SilverFast in 1994.

Core Functionality

SilverFast serves as a comprehensive suite for and high-quality , enabling users to scan photographs, , slides, and with professional precision. Developed by LaserSoft Imaging, the software emphasizes superior image quality through advanced scanning capabilities that capture and process efficiently. The software is compatible with both and , offering device-specific adjustments tailored to over 300 scanner models from various manufacturers, including , , and . This broad hardware support ensures optimized performance across diverse setups, allowing seamless integration with professional and consumer-grade equipment. At its core, SilverFast combines with integrated image editing tools to streamline , incorporating features like automatic corrections for , as well as archiving options for . This unified approach minimizes the need for separate applications, enabling users to preview, adjust, and output images directly from the . A key differentiator of SilverFast is its , which delivers professional-grade results accessible to both beginners and experts by simplifying complex processes without compromising on advanced controls. It briefly integrates with to enhance , though detailed are covered elsewhere.

History

Founding of LaserSoft Imaging

LaserSoft Imaging AG was founded in the spring of 1986 by physicist and visionary Karl-Heinz Zahorsky in , . Zahorsky established the company amid rapid advancements in , aiming to create high-quality tools for and scanner applications. From its inception, LaserSoft Imaging focused on developing for scanner hardware, positioning itself as a pioneer in the field of digital imaging solutions for both professional and enthusiast users. The company's location in , was instrumental in fostering innovation in and , building on the region's longstanding tradition of advancements in scanning and printing equipment pioneered by figures like Dr. Rudolf Hell in the mid-20th century. Early operations involved close collaborations with scanner manufacturers to optimize and enhance for emerging hardware. In the late 1980s, LaserSoft Imaging produced initial prototypes and basic imaging tools that addressed key challenges in , laying the foundation for more advanced developments. This early emphasis on software-hardware synergy set the stage for the transition to SilverFast development in the .

Development and Key Milestones

The development of SilverFast began in 1994 when Karl-Heinz Zahorsky, founder of LaserSoft Imaging, conceptualized it as a comprehensive scanning solution to address the growing need for high-quality image digitization tools. In 1995, the first version, SilverFast Ai v.1, was presented at the , marking its initial public debut with support for the Epson GT9000 as the inaugural compatible scanner, enabling early integrations with popular hardware for professional workflows. By the late 1990s, SilverFast continued to evolve with version 4 released in 1998, introducing IT8 calibration capabilities that laid the groundwork for accurate in scanned images. The 2000s brought further advancements, including the presentation of SilverFast v.5 in 2000 with features like Multi-Sampling for enhanced image quality, and a key milestone in 2008 when patents were granted for the Auto IT8 Calibration, including barcode technology enabling automatic IT8 calibration, streamlining the for users. Support for HDR imaging was initially introduced as part of the product lineup in the late 1990s alongside variants like and SilverFast DC, but saw significant expansion with the dedicated SilverFast HDR software in 2012. The marked a period of major version updates, with SilverFast 8 launching toward the end of August 2011, featuring a renewed interface and expanded compatibility for key scanners across major . Expansions into followed, including the release of the SilverFast JobMonitor app in 2015 to monitor scanning and processing jobs remotely. In recent years, SilverFast 9 was released in 2020, incorporating for up to 75% faster scanning and improved , alongside ongoing updates like version 9.0.4 in September 2021 that enhanced tools such as the eraser radius and iSRD availability in the WorkflowPilot.

Software Versions

Basic and Entry-Level Editions

SilverFast SE serves as the entry-level edition of the software suite, designed specifically for beginners in and . It provides core scanning tools, including a user-friendly scan assistant and intelligent automatic features that simplify the process of capturing images from , without incorporating advanced automation options. Building on the basic SE version, SilverFast SE Plus introduces additional features such as basic color correction capabilities and support for a wide range of scanner models, making it suitable for users seeking slightly more control over image quality. Typical pricing for SilverFast SE Plus falls in the range of $50 to $100, positioning it as an affordable option for those new to professional-grade scanning software. These entry-level editions have notable limitations, including the absence of for precise and advanced like JobManager for handling multiple images efficiently, though basic batch scanning is available in SE Plus, which restricts their use to simpler workflows. They are primarily compatible with consumer-grade hardware, ensuring accessibility for non-professional setups. The target audience for SilverFast SE and SE Plus consists of hobbyists and home users who require straightforward tools for , often benefiting from bundled offers with such as the , where the software is included at no extra cost.

Professional and Advanced Editions

SilverFast Ai Studio serves as the flagship professional edition of the , designed for and that demand maximum quality and efficiency. This version incorporates advanced AI-driven features, such as SRDx for , which uses sophisticated algorithms to detect and eliminate defects by analyzing surrounding without compromising detail. It also includes automatic frame detection via the IFF Plus engine, which intelligently identifies and aligns photos, slides, and on or holders for precise and . Additionally, SilverFast Ai Studio supports resolutions exceeding , enabling professionals to capture intricate details in high-volume . Complementing the scanning capabilities, SilverFast HDR provides robust post-scan processing tools tailored for non-destructive editing and , allowing users to optimize multiple images simultaneously without altering originals. Priced at approximately $399 for the HDR Studio edition, it features tools like iSRD for infrared-based defect removal and comprehensive for accurate reproduction. This edition excels in handling , dust, and scratches from scanned or existing digital images, making it a preferred choice for . Unique to these advanced editions are integrations like the , which seamlessly transfers scanned images directly into for further editing, streamlining professional pipelines. These tools are widely utilized in archiving projects, , and , such as preserving from like or to safeguard against . In contrast to entry-level editions that focus on , the professional versions emphasize these sophisticated, efficiency-enhancing capabilities for demanding applications.

Features

Scanning and Image Processing Tools

SilverFast provides a suite of tools for , allowing users to create a low-resolution scan of the original to assess and quality before the final . This preview concept enables precise adjustments, including 100% zoom inspection for detailed evaluation of image results. The software includes features for , rotation, and multi-crop batch scanning, which streamline the process of handling multiple originals on a single . Users can define multiple frame parameters within the to automate the extraction and of individual images, such as rotating and flipping them during preview or at scan time. supports multiple photos, slides, or simultaneously on or entire on . For , SilverFast incorporates dust and scratch removal tools, notably the iSRD algorithm, which uses the scanner's infrared channel to automatically detect and eliminate defects like dust particles and scratches during the . This infrared-based method effectively removes from by analyzing differences between , while a software-based variant, SRDx, handles by considering . Additionally, sharpening filters such as enhance image clarity by increasing luminance contrast and detail without amplifying irregularities, ensuring natural-looking results. SilverFast supports scanning various input types, including , , and slides, with resolution handling up to 16-bit depth per channel for high-fidelity capture. This depth is available in that support it, ensuring preservation of tonal gradations in digitized materials like and . Workflow efficiencies in SilverFast include one-click archiving options to formats such as and , facilitating quick storage and processing of scanned images. The JobManager tool automates of multiple frames and , enabling efficient handling of large volumes of material while supporting in JPEG2000 for smaller file sizes compared to TIFF. These features integrate with enhancements to maintain overall image integrity during archiving.

Color Management and Calibration

SilverFast incorporates advanced automatic mechanisms that leverage to ensure precise color reproduction across various imaging workflows. These profiles facilitate seamless , embedding device-specific characteristics into for consistent output on monitors, printers, and other devices. Additionally, the NegaFix tool provides specialized support for negative inversion, automatically converting into positives using over 120 predefined film profiles tailored to different , while also applying to enhance accuracy. This integration allows users to achieve true-color results from without manual intervention in most cases, streamlining the process for both professionals and enthusiasts. The in SilverFast is designed for high-precision , beginning with the placement of an on the scanner bed within the designated scan area. Upon initiating the calibration, SilverFast automatically scans the target and employs on its front side to identify the specific IT8 variant, thereby loading the corresponding reference data file without user input. This automated recognition triggers the full , where the software analyzes the scanned patches against the reference values to generate a custom that corrects for the scanner's individual color response deviations. The resulting profile is then applied in real-time to subsequent scans, ensuring predictable and brilliant color accuracy, with the entire process typically completing in seconds for efficiency. SilverFast supports ISO-compliant standards, particularly the ISO 12641-2 norm updated in 2019, through its advanced that enable professional-grade for . These targets incorporate standardized to measure and correct comprehensively, aligning with international benchmarks for . Furthermore, the software includes tools for printer/scanner matching, where a calibrated scanner serves as a measuring device to create for , allowing users to verify and adjust against for optimal . This capability ensures that match closely, minimizing discrepancies in professional reproduction workflows. For professional output, SilverFast offers advanced features such as , which empowers users to target and modify individual colors on the preview image without altering surrounding hues, using intuitive tools like for precise control. This method is particularly useful for restoring or achieving , as it operates independently of global corrections. Complementing this, the software's includes to handle effectively during conversions between , preserving visual integrity in high-end applications like and archiving. These tools collectively support nuanced , enabling outputs that meet demanding standards for accuracy and quality.

Products and Accessories

IT8 Calibration Targets

are physical color charts developed by LaserSoft Imaging as ISO-standard tools for , enabling precise and accurate reproduction in when used with SilverFast software. These targets adhere to such as ISO 12641-1 and the updated ISO 12641-2 (2019), providing for . LaserSoft Imaging's Advanced Targets represent an enhanced line of products compliant with ISO 12641-2, featuring approximately three times the number of compared to earlier versions to meet the demands of professional imaging workflows. A key innovation in these targets is the inclusion of , which facilitate fully automatic within compatible SilverFast editions, streamlining the for users. The product lineup includes reflective targets such as the 13x18 cm () model, priced at / 33.00, and the larger 16x21 cm version at USD/EUR 76.00, suitable for . Transmissive targets cater to film scanning, with examples like the LA1201 for at USD/EUR 95.00 and the LA1203 for 35mm Fuji transparencies, ensuring for slide and . These targets are optimized for specialized from brands like Reflecta and PIE, supporting formats such as and to calibrate devices for bulk film digitization projects. Availability is primarily through LaserSoft Imaging's online store, with options for standalone purchase or bundling with software packages like SilverFast Ai Studio (version 8.8.0r11 or later) or the Archive Suite, which are required for full compatibility with .

Resolution Targets and Other Accessories

LaserSoft Imaging offers the SilverFast Resolution Target, based on the USAF-1951 standard, designed to measure the actual usable resolution of scanners by assessing sharpness and optical performance. This target enables users to determine the optimal balance between resolution settings and image sharpness, which is essential for quality assurance in scanning workflows. Available in formats such as a transparent 35mm slide holder version for and a reflective version for , the target supports testing across various hardware types, including those with or without transparency units. These targets play a key role in professional workflows by allowing precise evaluation of scanner capabilities, helping users avoid over-scanning and ensure efficient . In addition to , LaserSoft Imaging provides supplementary accessories such as the SilverFast E-Book, which offers detailed guidance on and for users of the software. The company also offers integrated with SilverFast, aimed at achieving precise output quality through , distinct from . All-in-one solutions from LaserSoft Imaging combine SilverFast software with compatible and , facilitating comprehensive setup for high-quality . These packages streamline quality assurance by incorporating targets directly into the , often used complementarily with for full .

Reception and Impact

Awards and Industry Recognition

SilverFast has received numerous awards recognizing its excellence in and . In 2008, it was honored with the EDP award for the "best color management software of the year." The software has also earned accolades from publications such as Download2PC, DCPro Studio, and simpleshareware for its innovative features in . Additionally, SilverFast Ai has been described as an award-winning solution that sets standards for . Industry endorsements highlight SilverFast's integration with leading hardware manufacturers. It supports a wide range of scanner models from companies like and , often included in their deliveries, demonstrating strong partnerships that enhance compatibility and performance. These collaborations underscore its role in professional workflows. SilverFast is widely used in professional sectors, including and for . Many museums, art archives, and rely on it for large-scale digitization of historic photos and documents, ensuring high-quality . This adoption reflects its reliability in demanding archival environments. As a metric of its success, SilverFast has maintained market leadership since the , with over 35 years of continuous development by LaserSoft Imaging. It is utilized by professionals and institutions in more than 170 countries. Recent recognitions for SilverFast 9 include a Gold Award from DigiFoto magazine in 2021, praising it as the standard for scanning software with elevated capabilities in version 9.

Criticisms and Comparisons

SilverFast has faced criticism for its steep learning curve, particularly with advanced features that can overwhelm users unfamiliar with . Reviewers have noted that the software's dense interface and extensive options, while powerful, require significant time to master, making it less accessible for beginners compared to more straightforward alternatives. For instance, the 2022 review by Larry Jordan highlighted that SilverFast's interface demands patience to learn, despite delivering high-quality results for professional use. Pricing is another common point of critique, with SilverFast editions often seen as expensive relative to competitors like , which offers a more affordable starting at $69.95 for the professional version, while basic SilverFast packages start at $49 for the SE version and higher editions can exceed $100, requiring separate licenses for different scanners. This cost structure has been called a barrier for hobbyists, especially when free or bundled scanner software suffices for basic needs, though SilverFast's premium features justify the expense for some professionals. In comparisons to rivals like Epson Scan, SilverFast is praised for superior color accuracy and flexibility in , producing noticeably higher-quality scans from with better detail and shadow definition, but it lags in and speed. Benchmarks from indicate that while SilverFast excels in output quality, it trails Epson Scan and VueScan in scanning performance metrics, such as processing time, where Epson Scan was fractionally faster in tests with the Epson V850 Pro scanner. Against VueScan, SilverFast offers warmer, more accurate in side-by-side tests, though VueScan's interface is described as faster and less confusing for . Critics have also pointed to limitations in hardware and OS compatibility, including outdated support for legacy scanners lacking 64-bit drivers, which prevents functionality on modern versions like and later due to Apple's shift away from . For example, -based devices like the Nikon CoolScan are incompatible with macOS 26 Tahoe, released in 2025, because of absent hardware support from Apple, forcing users to avoid OS updates or seek alternatives. Additionally, older SilverFast versions may encounter issues on , with the company recommending upgrades for full compatibility, highlighting slower adaptation compared to more agile open-source tools that frequently update for new systems.

References

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