Hero®

Hero is a game-changing combination of breakthrough digitization technology and intuitive operation for professional film preservation. Every system comes with the incredible 130 fps scanning capability that transforms months of work into days.

4K
optical resolution
80 LP/mm precision scanning
130
fps scanning speed
variable 4-130 fps capability
192
kHz audio
professional dual-track recording

The Best Copy — The HERO 16mm transcends traditional scanning methods by prioritizing the complete capture of information for future applications, free from pre-emptive enhancement or interpretation. This philosophy ensures that each copy captures the essence of the original material, preserving its integrity for all subsequent uses.

32x
faster than traditional film scannings workflows
2,500ft
maximum film length per reel

Optics Beyond Compare — At the heart of our technology lies unparalleled craftsmanship. The optics, crafted by the specialists at Copenhagen Optical Company (COC), represent the pinnacle of precision engineering. With the same artisanship that equips satellite optics, these hand-crafted elements set a new standard for clarity and detail that no other scanner can replicate. This dedication to excellence ensures that every frame is preserved with uncompromising accuracy.

12/16-bit
workflow
95%
color accuracy (CRI)
Hero Film Scanner - Main System
Hero Film Scanner - Control Interface
Hero Film Scanner - Film Transport
Hero Film Scanner - Advanced Technology

Simplicity meets sophistication — The HERO 16mm seamlessly integrates bespoke hardware and intuitive software, democratizing access to high-quality film reproduction. In just a few hours, users can master the delicate art of creating superior 16mm film copies, thanks to our straightforward, interpretation-free approach.

74dB
dynamic range
6
output formats, more on request
23kg
total system weight

Faster, Faster, Fastest — Designed for efficiency, the HERO 16mm operates at speeds up to 4-5 times the nominal rate, circumventing lengthy preparation phases. This speed empowers institutions to digitize entire collections swiftly, eliminating the need for complex pre- selection processes. Even less prominent segments of collections hold newfound potential for research endeavors or as foundational data for AI model training.

Easy and Efficcient — Our innovative end-to-end solution empowers film and broadcast archives to leverage internal staff, significantly accelerating productivity while maintaining complete control over the entire process. By improving preservation and digitization efforts tenfold, the HERO 16mm not only enhances efficiency but also reduces overall costs significantly.

We're nearing 300.000 digitized reels. Major broadcasters worldwide have already made the switch. The revolution is here, and it's called Hero.

Join the world's leading institutions. BBC, major public broadcasters, and archives worldwide have already chosen Hero. They're not just preserving history – they're making it accessible at unprecedented speed and scale. Your institution could be next.

The future is now. While others debate the future of film preservation, Hero is already delivering it. Fast, easy, affordable digitization that transforms months of work into days. Revolutionary speed meets uncompromising quality. This is how film digitization should be.

Hero Film Scanner - Technical Overview

Film Compatibility

Film formatsS16/16mm
Film typeColor, b/w — Negative, internegative, positive, interpositive
Film lengthOn cores 2,500 ft / 762 m (≈66 min)

Transport & Scanning

Film transportSmart Sprocket wheel system for image and sound in same process
Scanning speed4 – 130 fps (variable)
Delicate film handling4-frame speed mode, film tension, speed & acceleration adjustment. Large roller diameters for reduced bending of film.
Scan regionFixed full 16mm frame focus (avoids zooming)
Resolution4K (80 LP/mm) optical resolution

Optical System

Optical lensCustom designed & build, by COC & FFW for 16mm film frame capture in highest possible quality (4K)
FocusFixed focus. The lens is designed for a fixed working distance, ensuring the whole film frame is in sharp focus — corner to corner
CameraArea sensor, 12-bit 1920×1200 px
Options: 2048×1536, 2448×2048, 4096×3000 px
Dynamic range74 dB
Light sourceRGB LED, diffuse 5,000 K, CRI 95%
Output color spaceRAW, presets & user-definable

Audio System

Recording typesSeparate magnetic, magnetic soundtracks on film, optical audio soundtracks
Sample rate96 – 192 kHz, dual-track (e.g., Sep Mag + Optical)
SynchronizationImages & sound locked via internal counter — sync guaranteed
SpeedVariable recording

Output Formats & Software

Video formatsAll standard broadcast formats: ProRes, H.264, H.265, JPEG 2000, FFV1, XDCam, DNxHD, Intra-100*
Image sequencesDPX (10/16-bit), TIFF (16-bit)
Customization*Adjustable to any broadcast format
Barcode readerInput from Barcode reader. Optional automatic reel creation.
Metadata import & exportJSON, XML, and custom formats
Scanner controlRealtime playback/rewind, high-speed, jog wheel for variable speed

Workstation & Processing

Operating systemWindows (Framegrabber & Workflow Manager)
Monitor setupDual-monitor system with realtime preview
Monitoring toolsParade/super-imposed waveform, vector, histogram, detail tool
NetworkingHigh-speed Thunderbolt peer-to-peer
Workflow featuresFile Processing System with secure QA & optional API access

Physical Specifications

Dimensions700 × 540 × 210 mm (27.6 × 21.3 × 8.3 inches)
Weight23 kg (50.7 lbs)
Power requirements115-240 V AC, 50/60 Hz (single-phase)

Order Your FastForward Scanner

Ready to transform your film digitization workflow? The FastForward 16mm Film Scanner is available for immediate delivery to qualified institutions worldwide.

Standard Package

Includes:

  • FastForward 16mm Film Scanner
  • Professional workstation with dual monitors
  • Complete software suite
  • Installation and training (2 days on-site)
  • 1-year warranty and support
  • Comprehensive documentation

Contact for pricing

Pricing varies by region and configuration

Premium Package

Everything in Standard, plus:

  • Extended 3-year warranty
  • Priority technical support
  • Annual software updates
  • Advanced training workshop
  • Custom workflow consultation
  • Spare parts kit

Contact for pricing

Recommended for high-volume operations

Ready to Order?

Contact our sales team to discuss your specific requirements and receive a detailed quote.

Email

sales@ffw.io

Phone

+45 1234 5678

Address

FastForward®
Esromgade 15
DK-2200 Copenhagen
Denmark

Note: The FastForward scanner is designed for professional use by qualified institutions. All sales include comprehensive training and support to ensure optimal results.