Abstract: A system for analyzing destination addresses on pieces of mail transported serially past an optical scan area to determine whether the address is machine imprinted or handwritten. Based on the determination, an output is generated to control sorting the mail into either one grouping with printed or typed addresses (readable by machine) or another grouping with handwritten addresses (unreadable by machine). High intensity lamps are focused on each side of the scan area angled at a predetermined angle to the path of transport of the mail to illuminate the address. Arrays of photocells are positioned in vertical alignments, one array on each side of the transport path. The array on the side of the piece of mail bearing the address is activated by a piece of mail reaching the scan area to cyclically generate signals based on the characteristics of the addresses scanned. The signals are processed to reach the decision as to whether the addresses are imprinted or handwritten.