Multifunction Inkjet Printers and Your Home Business - Part 2
Maximum Utility in Minimum Space - Multifunction Inkets
Scanning the Universe
Most newer multifunction inkjet printers have flatbed scanning functionality. That means you can scan just about anything by lifting the cover, placing your page face down, closing the cover, and pressing the Scan button. You can also import scanned pages into word processing and photo editing software.
Just like printing, the quality of the scan will be dependent on the dpi setting you use. For online use, you can select a low dpi, like 72 or 75, and for printing color photos you might select a much higer dpi, such as 600. The higher the dpi setting, the larger your file size will be once your item is scanned into your document.
I use scanning mostly to send back signed contracts (usually prepared in MS Word) to my clients. I print and sign the signature page of the contract. Then, I place the signed page face down in my scanner, select the entire signature page in the online document and choose Insert, Picture, then From Scanner or Camera in Word. My multifunction printer's software opens where I can select the settings for the page to be scanned. Most scanners have a Preview function that allows you to see what will be scanned. When I'm satisfied, I just click Scan Now and the signed page is inserted into my document. I can then either email or fax the signed page to my client.
Nothing but the Fax
Some multifuntion inkjet printers include a separate keypad write on the printer where you can just insert your page face down, dial the fax number and send the document. With mine, I have to scan the page first, say into a Word document. Once the scan is completed I can then use the Print command in Word to open the Windows Fax utility to send my fax.
If you send more than a few faxes per month, you'll want to consider selecting a model with its own keypad, and perhaps even its own fax software. I find the basic Windows Fax utility rather clumsy to use. If you're faxing pages every day and you have the room for it, a standalone fax machine is better yet and will save you time in the long run. Additionally, if your computer is turned off you won't receive an incoming fax.
Copy That
Making copies with a multifunction inkjet printer is simple. On my model, I just lift the lid, put the page face down, close the lid, and press Copy. I also have the option to make multiple copies and to copy in black and white or color.
To make two-sided copies I need to take the page, flip it over, put it back into the paper carriage and print the back side. This is an inconvenience, but I rarely need to make two-sided copies.
I don't have the need to make hundreds of copies at a time and to do so would be a lot more expensive on a multifunction inkjet printer than walking over to Kinko's or another copy and print services store. But for a few copies at a time it suits my needs perfectly.
Lots of Use for Your Dollar
Multifunction inkjet printers are a great value. With prices falling and quality improving every day you just can't get a more useful tool.
The biggest expense you'll have with this type of printer is the cost of ink cartridges. When you shop for a multifunction inkjet printer, check into the prices for replacement cartridges before you buy.
I've never had much luck with recycled or refillable ink cartridges, and using off-brands can also be risky. I stick to my manufacturer's brand and shop for the best price I can find. Warehouse stores, like Sam's Club and Costco can really help to keep the costs down. You can also look for sales.
With my printing volume I replace my black cartridge around every two months and the color cartridge around very three months. Your replacement frequency will depend entirely on your printing habits.
Multifunction Inkjet Printers and Your Home Business - Part 2
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