color
printer. You can also get an ink-jet color printer with
scanning capabilities that can essentially function
as a color copier. Color ink-jet printers with a scanning
function start at around $800, while true digital color
copiers start at around a few thousand dollars and can
cost as much as $100,000 and more.
Features
and functions to look for in a copy machine
Once you have identified the type of copy machine (analog,
digital or color) that will fit your needs, there are
other features and functions to consider. The desirability
and pricing of these features will help you narrow down
your choices for a specific copier.
Copy
volume
The number of copies you make in a month. It helps to
know what your copying needs are in this area.
Copy
speed
Copies per minute (CPM) refers to the number of letter-sized
copies the machine can produce in one minute when running
at full speed. This does not include making two-sided
copies, copying to larger sheets, automatic feeding
or sorting, or any other advanced function.
Feeders
A document feeder allows you to copy multi-page documents
without having to lift and lower the cover for every
individual sheet. This is a must for almost any environment.
Sorters
and staplers
A sorter helps organize multiple sets of multi-page
documents, and a stapler gives you the option of stapling
your multi-page documents together.
Duplexers
A duplexer allows you to make copies on both sides of
a single sheet of paper.
Paper
supply
Paper supply refers to the sets of trays and holders
that hold paper inside the copier. Standard trays typically
hold 50 to 100 sheets, while the largest-capacity trays
can hold up to 3,000 sheets.
Paper
sources
Paper sources refers to the number of different types
of paper trays available; such as trays that hold standard
sheets (which can be loaded with letterhead, colored
paper, etc.), legal-sized sheets, etc.
How
to find the best copy machine for you
Copy machines at the very low end of the price spectrum
are widely available at office-equipment retail or online
stores. Buying a copy machine from a superstore or online
