Multifunction printers

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A multifunction printer is a desktop machine combining the functions of printer, scanner, fax, copier and memory card reader. It also allows for most models send a document via e-mail. A monochrome LCD screen or color can drive the printer.

Model laser or inkjet printers multifunction printers are gradually replacing traditional businesses, because their major advantage: increasing productivity by reducing costs.

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Save space and time

Small businesses are lured by the multifunction for two reasons:
The device replaces four devices at once. It's all cables and in less space.
The acquisition of the device is cheaper than buying accumulated four devices


To consider before you buy:
In a breakdown of one of the elements of the device (scanner, printer, etc..), All the elements that are unusable time maintenance (different functions can be independent some models).
Beware of cheaper models which generally do not perform both operations simultaneously.


Note: Some functions, such as photocopying and photo printing from a card, are available without turning on the PC that is connected multifunction printer.

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The criteria to verify

• Printer resolution and print speed. The resolution indicates the quality of printing. It is quantified in dpi (dots per inch) or dpi (in English: dot per inch). The higher the value and the impression is of quality (Best Quality Color: 9600 x 2400 dpi). Print speed is expressed in ppm (pages per minute). A small company that does not have a high volume print focus on quality printing speed.
• Photocopying and scanning quality: The printer associated with the scanner function can obtain a copy. The quality of the copy depends on the function printer and scanner function (the resolution of the scanner is also expressed in dpi - medium resolution: 1 200 x 2 400 dpi). Higher values and the scanner is more efficient.
• Management fax: Companies who need to send faxes can do with a "multipurpose". Check if the device is equipped with an internal modem or whether to use the PC modem.
• Cost of consumables: In addition to the purchase price of the unit cost of replacement ink cartridges. The ability to print cartridge is a criterion to be taken into account. Check whether the printer has separate ink tanks or a single tank. Some cartridges called "generic" may be compatible with current models but the quality is uneven inks.

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Major manufacturers

The presence of many manufacturers on the market for multifunction printers is causing the decline in the price of these devices. The low-end starts just below 100 euros.

• The Japanese manufacturer Brother, which is a market leader, has the advantage of the devices among the dishes. Multifunction printers Brother
• The Japanese company Canon offers very versatile printers offering all possible options. Multifunction printers Canon Bubble Jet / The Canon multifunction laser printers
• Despite Epson cartridges often separated, the consumption of appliances Epson ink is important. The Japanese firm offers multifunction among the cheapest in the market. Epson multifunction printers
• The HP original U.S. manufacturer produces nearly half the printers sold worldwide. Multifunction printers HP
• Lexmark Born of the cessation of activities of IBM printer, this American company offers competitive prices. Lexmark multifunction printers for small businesses

And also:

• Xerox multifunction printers
• Dell Multifunction printers
• Ricoh multifunction printers
• Toshiba multifunction printers