In order to obtain the images of the particles the PowderShape system relies on scanners with transmissive light units and digital microscopes also operated in transmissive light mode. The analysis, visualization and evaluation are done by the PowderShape software. The use of scanners is crucial for success. They enable the characterization of advanced geometrical properties but at the same time support specimen of large sizes and the measurement of many specimen in a single batch. Microscopes are employed when a higher resolution is required.