Basic facts of all-in-one printers
What are all-in-one printers?
An
all-in-one printer (also known as a multifunction or MFP) combines
the features of more than one device in one package. At its simplest,
an all-in-one offers a printer (either an inkjet or a laser printer)
together with a scanner so that it can act as a printer, a scanner,
and a copier. Many all-in-one devices also have the capability
of sending and receiving faxes, which make them very useful for
home offices and small businesses.
All-in-one printers can start at about $100,
but expect to spend at least $300 to $500 for devices with fax
and other extras.
How do all-in-one printers work?
All-in-one printers are simply combinations of
a printer with a scanning unit. This means that you get a lot
more usability out of your machine.
For example, you can scan documents and either
store them in your PC or print them out immediately (so that the
device acts as a copier). You can also scan documents and either
send them to your PC for faxing, or fax them directly from the
multifunction. And because all these functions are contained in
one unit, you save space, and don't have to deal with multiple
connections.
What costs comes with all-in-ones?
An all-in-one uses the same supplies as
ordinary printers: toner if it is a laser printer, ink if it is
an inkjet printer. The only additional cost can be if there is a
problem with the device: If, for example, the scanner needs to
be repaired, you will also be deprived of your printer.
What are the advantages of all-in-ones?
Disadvantages?
- Repairs means you are deprived of both
printer and scanner.
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