Those complaining that the small sheet-fed scanners need to be plugged into an outlet should take note that the power supply is 6V. That means it likely uses 5V, which is standard in many portable electronics. You can then use those rechargeable power packs for charging phones and tablets on the go. For example, this 10000mAh model with 3 USB ports. Just makes sure you have the right plug, which should be easy since it’s a standard size.
This is a great little portable scanner. I thought it was a good deal at full price from a genealogy website, but this WOOT deal is great! It is battery operated, but I use rechargeable NiCAD AA batteries. Have scanned many many many old family photos, and when done with that will start on important old documents. Makes excellent quality scans that are easy to transfer to my laptop. Thinking about getting myself a second one at this great price!
Answer: Genealogy!!! Small scanners are exactly what us amateur genealogists want for copying old photos and for use in libraries and courthouses, etc. I have this scanner and I love love love it.