Speedy scanning

Many of the early scanners were SCSI models. Then came speedier, enhanced parallel ports that could keep pace with or even surpass SCSI speeds. Generally easier to configure, they included pass-through connections that let you hook your printer to the scanner. (Just don't try to use both devices at once.) Today most cheaper scanners use your computer's USB port and can achieve good speeds, especially if they support USB 2.0.

Also, there's more to scanning speed than the wire it travels on. Some devices take several seconds to get the scan head in position and return the head to the rest position after the scan is done. If you're adding up the numbers, you'll need to take this into consideration.