The modern office is incomplete without a high-quality multifunction printer (MFP). What sets an MFP apart from a traditional business printer? At the minimum, an MFP can scan, copy, and fax as well as perform conventional printing functions. Savvy businesses know that replacing many machines with one makes logistical and financial sense. Many MFPs can do even more. Here are a few key features to look for when selecting an MFP.

Automatic Document Feeder

If you’ll be scanning documents with any regularity, and if you plan to scan double-sided documents, be sure to purchase an MFP with an automatic document feeder. This feature allows users to place a stack of documents on the feeder, single or double sided, and copy or scan them with just one or two button presses. Without this accessory, you’ll spend lots of time placing sheets on the copier glass one at a time.

Printing Speed

Generally, any MFP is going to print faster than your home printer does, but printing speeds can vary. If your organization prints lengthy documents regularly, invest in a printer with a high printing speed.

Duty Cycle

All printers need to be serviced. But not all printers have the same duty cycle. Audit your current printing needs before upgrading your machine, and look for the right balance. You don’t want to be calling the service tech or replacing the toner every Monday, so look for an MFP with the recommended monthly volume (or duty cycle) that matches your needs.

Connectivity Options

Almost all MFPs today can be connected to an Ethernet network, and it hardly makes sense to buy one without this connectivity. You want all users in your workgroup to be able to print to the machine, and you want it to be able to scan files to a network location. That said, there are two types of connectivity to consider.

Network (Ethernet) Connectivity

This is the basic form of connectivity. The MFP connects via Ethernet cable to your organization’s network, and computers on that network can see and print to the MFP. Depending on the feature set, the MFP can also email scans or place them in a network location.

Wireless Connectivity

An MFP with wireless connectivity allows printing from laptops or mobile devices connected wirelessly. This feature adds a whole new level of convenience.

If you’re looking for a high-quality multifunction printer with some or all of these key feature, contact Copylite today!