We know that with computers we need to do the manual insertion of the inputs in the early developing stages of the computers. So, the OMR and OCR are the technologies designed to directly capture and enter the data into the system without needing any human intervention. These methods of inserting the data directly to the system is very useful as it facilitates bulk data entry with accuracy.
The major differences between the OMR and OCR is that OMR is a data collection technology. In contrast, the OCR is a data recognition technology.
Content: OMR and OCR
Comparison Chart
| Basis for comparison | OMR | OCR |
|---|---|---|
| Stands for | Optical Mark Recognition | Optical Character Recognition |
| Utilization | To collect the data from printed symbols | To scan any type of printed text |
| Scanned fonts | Just some specific symbols are used. | Consist of a variety of texts or shapes. |
| Timing tracks | Required | No need of timing tracks |
| Registration marks | Not necessary | Required for proper working. |
| Accuracy | More | Less |
| Document storage and retrieval | Not Possible | Possible |
| Depends on | Position of the marks | Shape of the marks |
Definition of OMR
The job of an OMR (Optical Mark Recognition) reader is to detect the marks located at some specific positions on printed forms. It is mainly used as an input method for inserting a huge amount of data such as in answer sheet containing the answers of the multiple-choice questions.
The OMR is functionable with an only special document. It is comprised of timing tracks at the one edge of the form, and these tracks signify the place from where the scanner starts reading marks. It also contains form ID marks that resemble to black boxes situated on the top or bottom of the form. The bubble in the OMR sheet must be precisely placed, and the cuts are also carved in a precise order.
However, the accuracy attained by OMR can be greater than in the case of OCR if it is designed properly.
Definition of OCR
OCR (Optical Character Recognition) uses the scanner and the special softwares to change the form of the printed text into scanned images. The special thing about the converted scanned images is that these can also be edited in a word processing software.
OCR provides flexibility due to the absence of the timing tracks or blocks. For recognizing an image, it uses the registration marks at the four corners of the document. Respondents place one character in each box on this form.
In OCR the colour is crucial as it decreases the size of the scanner’s output and increases the accuracy.
Key Differences Between Calculator and Computer
- The OMR detects and collects data from pre-printed documents. On the other hand, the OCR scans and stores the printed text into the image form.
- OCR involve any type of fonts, symbols or image in its processing while in OMR there can be only symbols used.
- The OMR technology involves timing tracks. In contrast, OCR employs registration marks for the proper operation of the system.
- OMR is more accurate than the OCR.
- Data and documents can be stored in the OCR systems which is not possible in case of the OMR.
- OMR is based on the position of the marks. Conversely, in OCR the shape of the mark, character and symbol is important.
Conclusion
Both the technologies work in a quite same manner, but in OMR, only symbols are involved while in OCR the various characters, symbols, images can be involved.
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