Introduction
AmbirScan Web Connect enables web applications to control local TWAIN scanners through a simple JavaScript SDK. It bridges the gap between browser-based applications and hardware scanners by providing a local Windows service that your web app communicates with via a REST API.
How It Works
┌──────────────────┐ HTTPS (REST API) ┌────────────────────────┐ Internal ┌─────────────┐
│ Your Web App │ ◄──────────────────── │ AmbirScan Web Connect │ ◄───────────► │ Scanner │
│ (Browser) │ localhost:53052 │ (Windows Service + │ TWAIN │ Hardware │
│ │ │ Desktop App) │ │ │
└──────────────────┘ └────────────────────────┘ └─────────────┘
- Your web application includes the JavaScript SDK (
aswcn-scanner-bridge.js) - The SDK communicates with the locally installed AmbirScan Web Connect service over HTTPS on
localhost:53052 - The service interfaces with TWAIN scanners and returns scanned images as Base64-encoded data
Live Demo
A hosted demo application is available for developers to test scanning without building their own web app:
https://ambirscanwebconnect.azurewebsites.net
Install AmbirScan Web Connect on your machine, then open the link above to start scanning immediately.
Components
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Windows Service | HTTPS REST API running on localhost:53052. Receives scan commands from your web app. |
| Desktop Application | Runs in the system tray. Interfaces directly with TWAIN scanner hardware. |
| JavaScript SDK | Client-side library you include in your web application. |
| Installer | Windows MSI that installs the service, desktop app, certificates, and firewall rules. |
Supported Scanners
AmbirScan Web Connect works with any TWAIN-compatible scanner, including all Ambir scanner models.
Licensing
Free with Ambir Scanners
AmbirScan Web Connect is free to use with Ambir Technology scanners. No license key or additional purchase is required.
Third-Party Scanner Support
Third-party TWAIN scanners may be used with AmbirScan Web Connect, but require a licensing fee. Without a license, scans performed with third-party scanners will include a watermark. Contact Ambir for pricing.
OCR and Barcode Decoding
OCR text extraction and barcode decoding are premium features that require additional licensing. Contact Ambir for pricing.
Code License
- SDK and Sample Code — MIT License. Free to use, modify, and integrate into your applications.
- Windows Installer and Binaries — Proprietary EULA. See EULA for terms.