ST Imaging Long-Term Support for Microform Scanners and Software
NZMS is the exclusive NZ Reseller of ST Imaging Microform products and supports them in Aotearoa New Zealand.
In the interests of clarity and transparency for resellers and end users, ST Imaging has disclosed end-of-life and end-of-support plans for ST Imaging’s hardware and software offerings, adding special reference to the looming changes to support by Microsoft of its Windows 10 and 11 Operating Systems (OS). Please note that changes could take place to these plans altering this position.
Definitions
EOL = End of Life
Product no longer offered for sale but eligible for factory support and service.
EOS = End of Service
Product no longer offered for sale. Factory support or service is generally not available but may be offered on a “best effort” basis.
OS = Operating System
Product no longer offered for sale. Factory support or service is generally not available but may be offered on a “best effort” basis.
Background
Microsoft announced some time ago that support for Windows 10 will end on 14 October 2025. After this date Microsoft will no longer provide free software updates from Windows update, technical assistance, for security fixes for Windows 10. Your PC will still work but they recommend moving to windows 11; “Windows 11 offers a modern and efficient experience designed to meet current demands for heightened security.” Note this is end of support for Windows 8.1 and Windows 7 as well.
What does this mean for ST Imaging Microform Scanners and Software?
ST Imaging will continue to support equipment being used in Windows 10 and 11 Operating Systems (OS) while they are actively supported by Microsoft. If a customer encounters a problem with equipment running in an OS no longer supported by Microsoft, NZMS and ST Imaging will make best effort to restore to working order. In some cases, we may not be able to do so, particularly when equipment is running unsupported software in an unsupported OS environment.
HARDWARE
Hardware is not directly limited by the OS. Even if the PC connected to the scanner is running an EOS OS the scanner should still be functional.
Please note that continued use of Windows 7, 8, 10, or any other EOS OS may leave the system vulnerable to malicious software. ST Imaging recommends upgrading computing equipment to supported platforms.
SOFTWARE
PerfectView is the software that ST Imaging engineers are now developing. Premium Software has been out of development for several years though still supplied with ViewScan4 equipment and supported until recently. The recent security changes necessitating the Windows 11 OS, have led STImaging to recommend migrating to PerfectView. Should issues relating to continued use of Premium software arise, NZMS and ST Imaging will make best efforts to offer support but cannot guarantee being able to resolve. Charges may apply as Premium is EOS and out of warranty.
- PerfectView will work on Windows 10, and Windows 11.
- Premium will work on Windows 11, 10, and 8
For clients wanting the peace of mind of using supported software within the superior security environment offered by Windows 11, NZMS can facilitate your upgrade to PerfectView. Charges will apply as Premium is EOS and out of warranty. This software upgrade is only possible on ViewScan4 machines.
What IS Current, What is Not?
CURRENT
ST ViewScan IV, with PerfectView software is the current & recommended ‘in-service’ and ‘supported’ microform scanner that we offer NZ customers.
NOT CURRENT
Its predecessor, the ST ViewScan III, has been EOL and EOS since 2021.
ST ViewScan models II, I and earlier models are all well-past EOL and EOS (and we recommend they should no longer be in use in public environments).
ST ViewScan IV equipment is current but not if running on View Scan Premium software (we recommend updating to PerfectView software).
When Should I Plan to Replace My Scanner?
Three years is a typical trouble-free lifespan with moderate usage, just as you would expect with PC’s or laptops, Photocopier/MFD’s. For low use environments, for best practice, we would recommend replacing your scanner every four years.
In our experience, the longer machines are retained in use there is more likelihood of local/environmental impact on the likes of the device’s circuit boards and general componentry etc e.g. the embrittlement of plastic moving parts through age and temperature fluctuations such as air conditioning over the 24/7 weekly cycle, also general wear and tear through use and the booting on and off cycles.