Our Story

Analogue Imaging equips industry specialists with state-of-the-art technology to create a meaningful impact on the world – both past and present. Authentic historical preservation is the guiding principle behind our work. We believe that the past should always have the opportunity to accurately present itself in the future. Whether you are looking to purchase one of our products, seeking guidance with a project, or looking to connect with our growing community of users, let our team provide you with the resolution.

1966

Founded by Josef Schaut, SMA enters the market designing, developing and manufacturing high quality microfilm cameras.

1976

With Mr. Schaut’s patented invention of the microfilm camera head system, SMA quickly became an international success, with over 5,000 A0 microfilm cameras sold, installed and preserving the past for our world’s future.

1989

Mr. Schaut and SMA once again reshaped the Library and Archives industry by introducing the world’s first digital book scanner at the CeBIT exhibition in Hannover, Germany. After listening to the needs of their first customer, SMA designed and developed a unique book scanner able to scan completely independent from ambient light (room lighting, windows/sunlight). To date, SMA is still the only company in the world that manufacturers scanners where ambient light truly has no impact on your scans.

1999

Russell J. Burkel, a world-renowned pioneer in the micrographics industry and the original founder of Eyecom, established Analogue Imaging. Dragging Russ, kicking and screaming into the digital book scanning world was no easy feat. But much like anything Russ did, he eventually rolled up his sleeves, accepted the inevitable digital revolution and joined the movement starting his next successful venture.

2001

When Mr. Schaut learned of Russ’s new venture, it was an easy decision…Analogue Imaging was awarded the master distributorship in North America for all SMA products. This partnership allowed Analogue Imaging to offer the most complete range of digital scanning and archival equipment.

2007

Ralph Fuchs and Peggy Zilian acquire SMA GmBH from the Schaut family after Josef’s untimely passing. Having just come off great success in the microfilm consumable business, Ralph and Peggy were honored to continue Josef’s vision through their strong leadership and desire for growth.

2009

On July 10th, Russell J. Burkel lost the fight to cancer surrounded by friends and family. After 8 years of working side by side with Russ, it was a natural decision for his son Aaron J. Burkel to take the reins of Analogue Imaging and continue his vision. His honesty, intelligence and unwavering love that began in the micrographics industry continues to live on.

2010

SMA revolutionizes the large format flatbed scanning world by introducing the SMA VERSASCAN. This invention created new channels beyond the Archives and Records industry. Analogue Imaging embraced the new business opportunities, entering the Fine Art, Décor, Quality Control and Manufacturing Industries, just to name a few…

2016

SMA created a sensation at the CeBIT exhibition in Hanover, Germany introducing the world’s first large format, fully robotic page turning book scanner. Crowds swarmed the SMA RoboScan, news teams gathered, and onlookers were once again energized by the innovative developments of SMA.

Today

Hundreds of North American Archives, Universities, Libraries, Service Bureaus, Manufacturing Facilities and a rapidly growing community of Art Studios are currently using SMA GmbH products, yearly service, and warranties distributed by Analogue Imaging. SMA E-Document GmbH is represented in more than 105 countries worldwide and is the only manufacturer that maintains a product range covering book scanners and flatbed scanners from A3+ up to triple A0+, as well as the most complete line of Archive Writing devices in the world.

Here at Analogue Imaging and SMA, we know Russ and Josef would be proud. As our mission statement says, “We believe that the past should always have the opportunity to accurately present itself in the future.” This not only pertains to our products, but the past, present and future people that continue the vision that began back in 1966.

News and Events

Product of the Year

SGIA Specialty Graphic Imaging Association 2018

SGIA Judges Award SMA VERSASCAN 2018 Product of the Year for Large Format Scanners (Flat or Roll Devices).

“This year we mixed it up and placed unique images that helped generate a more complete set of objective data to provide feedback to the judges. The competition was tight, and the results were outstanding. SMA’s award was well-earned,” said Ray Weiss, Director of Digital Print Programs, SGIA.

WCAF West Coast Art and Frame

Las Vegas, Nevada

The West Coast Art & Frame Expo, now celebrating its 20th year, is the largest event in the art and picture framing industry, showcasing thousands of new vendor products and services. Attendees come to see the latest trends, meet with exhibitors, and network with other industry professionals. The WCAF Expo is the home to The National Conference, the industry’s leading educational program that features fresh, new, and exciting seminars and hands-on workshops every year. The WCAF Expo is sponsored by Picture Framing Magazine.

Printing United

Orlando, Florida October 6-8 2021

Visit SMA/Analogue Imaging in Booth #2945.
PRINTING United focuses on the opportunities presented by the convergence of technologies and markets in the printing industry. Print and finishing technologies in industry segments from garment to graphic, packaging to commercial, and industrial.

American Library Association

Washington D.C. June 23-28, 2022

ALA provides leadership for the development, promotion, and improvement of library and information services and the profession of librarianship in order to enhance learning and ensure access to information for all.

Society of American Archivists

Boston, Massachusetts August 20-27, 2022

The Society of American Archivists is North America’s oldest and largest national professional association dedicated to the needs and interests of archives and archivists. SAA represents more than 6,200 professional archivists employed by governments, universities, businesses, libraries, and historical organizations nationally. The Society of American Archivists empowers archivists to achieve professional excellence and foster innovation to ensure the identification, preservation, understanding, and use of records of enduring value.