Achieve More With An MFP Machine

By Gary Ellis


Industrialization has always brought modernization with it over the years. However, because of this, people have flocked to cities, causing housing and office spaces to become smaller. This, in turn, started to limit the space for different types of furniture and equipment that people need. But, it led to inventions like an all-in-one washer and dryer instead of having two separate ones. The same thing has led to the evolution of the MFP machine or multifunction peripheral, which combines the functions of a printer, copier, fax machine, and scanner.

Technology has helped evolve this concept. It combines multiple functions, and even allows users to send input or save output while remaining online, among others. Most machines come equipped with a touch screen, which is often used by this generation's users.

Usually, an MFP device has a single function, with additional functions on top of it. For instance, it could be a digital copy machine with scanning and printing functions. It may even have fax or paper sorting capabilities.

Another example is a fax machine that may look like your normal fax machine, but has the capability to connect to a computer for the input, save incoming faxes as a soft copy, or be able to scan, print, and copy documents. Another example may be a combination of printer, scanner, and copier, with the capability to send and receive faxed transmissions.

Various companies in this business have created different MFP machines. As such, there are different types in existence now, which are SOHO, all-in-one, Production Printing, and Office. These can be differentiated based on their usage, as well as the customer base they were made for. Some of these devices are made for individuals, families, small businesses, commercial offices, and enterprises. As such, cost, ease of use, features, throughput, and output quality, naturally depend on the type required by the user.

For office or home use, an AIO or all-in-one device is recommended. Copying, scanning, and printing are the basic functions of this type of machine. Input can be sent through USB connection, WiFi, or Ethernet cable. Users can also choose between a laser printer and an ink jet printer. Text printouts are better with laser printers, while photos are better with ink jet printers.

Primarily designed for Small and Home Office spaces, a SOHO MFP can be large or small, desktop-sized. Aside from the usual features of scanning, faxing, and copying, some offer storage of documents for easier retrieval. Like AIOs, users can manage input through USB, Ethernet cable, or WiFi. Their bulk or size is normally due to extra features like paper feeders or trays, document sorting, and automatic paper feeding.

Networked offices, on the other hand, would benefit more from Office MFPs. Like other types, users have fax, copy, scan, and print options. Authentication protocols can be put in place by the management. As such, an employee's credentials would limit their capability to access certain functions or features. Due to the availability of networked connection, input can be managed through FTP and email, and also through USB.

Production Printing machines are generally not as advanced technologically. However, this lack in the number of features is countered by advanced functionality like binding a book, fast printing speed, and excellent output quality. This is perfect in businesses where the main objective is to produce the highest volume of output.




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