LXR Software Support

Frequently asked Questions


Some Things To Consider Before Purchasing an Optical Mark Reader?

Mark Readers:

LXR doesn't recommend any particular reader over another. The reader you choose should be based on your specific needs and each OMR vendor and reader model offers different options and solutions. Some of the areas you may want to explore in your OMR reader selection include:

Do you need to read 25-channel forms or 48 channel forms? Many of the older readers from Scantron were designed to read 25 channel forms. Most newer readers from OMR vendors read 48 channel forms. Some newer readers can be optionally equipped to read the older 25 channel forms instead of reading 48-channel forms. 48-channel forms typically can handle more questions and also demographic information such as the Student Name, Test Version, etc. If you are not tied to any specific forms, you should consider using a newer 48-channel form. This choice depends mainly on the forms you will be using.

Do you need to read single or dual-sided forms? Dual-sided 48-channel forms should typically be read with a dual-sided reader. A few dual-sided 48 channel forms can be read on a single sided reader but it would require 2 passes through the reader to read the entire form and the form must have an ID printed on each side. 25-channel forms can only be read one side at a time and will require multiple passed through the reader if they are printed on both sides.

Do you need to read only pencil marks or pencil and ink? Readers that can read ink can only use forms that are printed in specific colors that are invisible to the ink heads. Only a limit set of forms are available for use with ink head readers. Forms that are not ink-compatible will not read correctly on a reader with ink heads.

Do you need an auto feeder? If you are scanning a large volume of forms, it would probably be best to have this feature because of the time it will save loading forms. Some readers include this feature, some have it optional, and some do not provide this feature.

Where is service available for this reader? Readers, like any device with moving parts and electronics, will require service sooner or later. Service availability and response time may need to be taken into consideration.

Do you need a printer on your reader? A printer built into the reader is not supported. LXR·TEST provides all the reporting information directly to an external printer so having a printer in the reader is not necessary.

Do you need additional software to interface to the reader? LXR·TEST includes the drivers to interface to the supported readers on Windows.

How much does the reader cost and how much are forms for the reader? Your OMR vendors can provide you with cost information. Usually forms are the biggest expense for scoring so this cost should also be considered.


NOTES

You may want to contact a representative for the OMR companies and explain your needs and see what options they can provide and ensure the reader and forms recommended include compatibility with LXR·TEST 6.0. Please click here for information on the readers and forms LXR·TEST supports.

LXR·TEST supports custom forms. For a quote on the compatibility development for a custom form to be used with LXR·TEST, please contact .