George wrote:
Has anyone embarked on scanning their paper documents in order to use them on their computer? If so, what format and/or program do you use?
And most importantly, can you search on these (computer) files?

My scanner (epson 4490) allows me to scan to pdf, but, for the most part, if the text is in cursive handwriting, the file is only searchable by filename and not its contents.

Finally, how would you insert such documents into programs such as Legacy or FTM?

I appreciate this forum as I have so many tech questions I want to ask.

==================================================================H Hi George,

I can tell you what I have done, with my "low tech self" in repsonse to a couple of your questions.

For my paper documents I have used a copier, scanner & digital camera to capture the text image. These are in the form of Census Images, Wills, Estate Papers, handwritten interviews on microfilm, Discharge Papers, County Plat Mape, etc.

I created a Folder in My Pictures and labeled it "Documents, Newspaper Articles". etc....So I scan an image into the Folder... a picture (jpg) and label the image. I can acess the photos thru the Folder. *.jpg or by photo name.

For entry into my genealogy software, I use FTM & Roots Magic, I use the "scrapbbook" feature in FTM for individual & Family doucments which are attached to a person. Same for RM in the photo option..Individual/family scrapbook.

FTM....Highlight the individual, click on Scrapbook, then picture/object and add your document from options listed.....(photo CD, File, Camera, Scanner.)

RM...Highlight individual, click on camera icon and follow screen instructions.

I probably wrote a whole lot to say nothing, but I hopw it will be of some help to you.

Regards,
Art Thomas