Hewlett-Packard wanted to simplify its desktop scanner offerings by combining its two existing models into a single, low-cost product: the Scanjet G3110. The new scanner’s design needed to be distinct and fresh, yet fit in with HP’s other computer peripherals, as well as reinforce the company’s materials, usability, and recycling strategies.

Continuing their long history of hardware collaboration, HP and IDEO teamed up for the challenge. Due to tight economic constraints, designers kept the total number of parts and cost of materials to a minimum. To make recycling at scale possible, they made the product easy to disassemble at the end of its life and incorporated non-painted parts—a radical departure from the brushed-on metallic flourishes that historically added perceived values to computer equipment. The G3100’s design relied on clever tactile solutions as user cues, such as touch points and forms, rather than surface treatments.

High functionality, an HP hallmark, was essential. The G3110 is ideal for any user who seeks high-quality scans of photos, slides, negatives, documents, and 3-D objects. Priced at $99, it offers 4800 x 9600 dpi and 48-bit color resolution for optimal image quality. HP’s technology allows users to enhance images by restoring faded colors, correcting flaws caused by dust particles and scratches, and removing red-eye from scanned images. The 3110 is certified for Windows Vista, Windows 2000, Windows XP, and Mac OS X.

HP’s market research indicated that much of its customer base was female and interested in capturing memories—photos and documents—with “creative” rather than “office” peripherals. So the team gave the G3110 aesthetics that conveyed approachability and playfulness through simple forms and softer radiuses than competing scanners. The stylish exterior is made of white high-gloss plastic, which sets it apart from competitors on store shelves.

This is HP’s first single-function scanner with side hinges that allow a user to put the unit on a desk in either orientation. (The hinges, which are integrated into the lid, eliminate the need for additional tooling or assembly.) The device also features “one-touch” buttons and a quick-and-easy, task-based interface. Visual tension and part lines at the interface controls create a focal zone with an intuitive hierarchy of navigation, function, and mode buttons; form and surface to delineate functional areas.

HP unveiled the G3110 with a suite of other products for photography buffs at Photokina 2008 in Germany. “The transition from analog to digital ... creates opportunities for professional photographers and consumers to bring rich content to life,” said Michael Hoffmann, senior vice president, Graphics Solutions Business, HP. “Today’s announcements enhance HP’s portfolio of innovative digital photography solutions and services to enable this transformation of the photography industry and help customers create, access, manage and publish their content.”