Can Every Copier Do Double-Sided Scanning?

Understanding Double-Sided (Duplex) Scanning

Many businesses need to scan both sides of a document, whether for contracts, invoices, or records. But not all copiers can automatically scan both sides.

If you’re looking for duplex scanning, it’s important to understand the different technologies behind it—and how they affect speed, quality, and cost.

By the end of this article, you will understand the different types of duplex scanning, how they impact speed and cost, and how to handle blank pages in double-sided scans.

The Two Main Types of Duplex Scanning Technology

When it comes to automatic double-sided scanning, most office copiers use one of these two systems:

RADF (Reversing Automatic Document Feeder)

How it works:

• The scanner pulls in the sheet, scans the first side, and then mechanically flips it to scan the back.
• This is done by reversing the paper’s direction and feeding it back through the scanner.
• Once the second side is scanned, the page continues through and exits the machine.

Pros:

• More affordable—found on many mid-range office copiers
• Works well for lower scan volumes

Cons:

• Slower, since the paper must be flipped and rescanned
• More moving parts, which can wear out over time

DADF (Dual Automatic Document Feeder)

How it works:

• Instead of flipping the paper, the DADF uses two scanning sensors (or bulbs), one for each side of the document.
• Both sides are captured simultaneously as the page moves through.

Pros:

• Much faster, making it ideal for high-volume scanning
• Less mechanical wear, since no flipping is needed
• Reduces jamming risk compared to RADF

Cons:

• Typically found on higher-end copiers, which cost more upfront

Other Scanning Methods You Might Encounter

Not every copier uses an automatic document feeder (ADF). Here are some alternative ways scanning happens:

• Flatbed Glass Scanning – Some basic or specialty copiers require placing documents on the glass one page at a time. This works well for books or fragile documents but is not ideal for high-volume scanning.
• Single-Sided Scanning – Many home or entry-level office copiers only scan one side at a time, requiring users to manually flip and rescan.
• Hybrid Systems – Some lower-end ADFs feed the document through twice—once for each side—rather than flipping the paper internally like an RADF.

What Happens If There Are Blank Back Pages?

A common issue when scanning double-sided documents is dealing with blank back pages. If you scan a stack of documents using a duplex scanner (RADF or DADF), the machine will capture both sides—even if one side is blank.

How to Handle Blank Pages When Scanning

Most modern copiers and multifunction printers (MFPs) have a setting to ignore blank pages during duplex scanning. If enabled, the scanner will automatically detect and remove blank pages from the final digital file.

Common Features to Look For in Your Copier’s Settings:

• Blank Page Removal – Automatically detects and removes blank pages.
• Threshold Adjustment – Some copiers allow you to set a sensitivity level to determine what qualifies as “blank” (useful if a faint watermark is present).
• Preview Before Saving – If unsure, some machines allow a preview so you can manually delete blank pages before finalizing the scan.

If your copier doesn’t have this feature, you may need to manually remove blank pages from the scanned file using PDF editing software.

Which Scanning System Is Best for You?

The best option depends on your volume and budget:

• If you have low to moderate scanning needs, an RADF-equipped copier is a cost-effective choice.
• If you handle high-volume scanning, a DADF system will save time and reduce wear and tear.
• If you only scan occasionally or need high-quality results, a flatbed copier or hybrid solution may be the best fit.

If you’re not sure which scanner type is best for your office, Pahoda Copiers & Printers can help. Our team will guide you to the right copier based on your specific needs—so you get fast, reliable scanning without overpaying for features you won’t use.

Call us today to find the best copier for your business!