Abstract: A method of processing a document comprises the steps of (a) scanning a document to capture image data associated with the document, (b) processing at least a portion of the captured image data to calculate a first count of pixels associated with a corner of the document, (c) processing at least a portion of the captured image data to calculate a second count of pixels associated with the corner of the document, and (d) determining if the corner of the document is missing or has a fold based upon the first count of pixels associated with the corner of the document and the second count of pixels associated with the corner of the document. The usability of the captured image data associated with the document is determined based upon the amount of information found missing from the image of the document due to, for examples, a torn or folded corner. If the torn or folded corner is determined to be large enough, then the corresponding image of the document is determined to be unusable.

Abstract: An image-based check processing system has a focus test pattern on a background surface which is disposed along one side of a document transport path. An imaging camera is disposed along an opposite side of the document transport path and faces the focus test pattern. The imaging camera captures an image of a financial document along the document transport path when the financial document is between the imaging camera and the focus test pattern, and captures an image of the focus test pattern when no financial document is between the imaging camera and the focus test pattern. An energizeable first light source of a first electromagnetic frequency is provided for, when energized, illuminating a financial document moving past the imaging camera to allow the imaging camera to capture an image of the illuminated financial document.

Abstract: A check made of sheet material has at least one field of pre-printed information. Apriori reference image quality data which is representative of at least one characteristic of the pre-printed information contained in the at least one field is stored on the sheet material check. Alternatively, a check made of sheet material has at least one encoded symbol disposed on the sheet material. Apriori reference image quality data which is representative of at least one characteristic of the encoded symbol is stored on the sheet material of the check.