If you are deciding to either buy or rent a copier machine for the office, you might be at a point of clearing out confusion as to how different copying is from printing. Moreover, MFP and MFD are often used simultaneously, leading to more confusion for business managers and owners.
Let’s simplify this by explaining and defining the terms MSP, MFD, printer, and photocopier.
1. Defining the Document Device Terminology
| Term | Full Name | Primary Function / Key Difference |
| Photocopier | Electronic Machine | Produces copies of documents and images without needing a computer connection. |
| Printer | Electronic Machine | Needs information from a computer to come up with printed material. |
| MFD/MFP/AIO | Multifunction Device/Printer/All-in-One | Combines photocopying, printing, scanning, and often faxing into one unit. |
| Xerography | N/A | The core technology (electrostatic charge) modern photocopiers use. |
In the previous years, offices used separate machines to complete tasks. Photocopying, printing, scanning, and faxing were all done by standalone noisy machines. Recently, however, photocopiers are networked to other machines to complete multiple functions.
Multiple task machines are now available as free-stand models or desktops. With a tinier footprint, an MFP is a centralized document production, management, and distribution.
2. What Are the Capabilities of a Modern Copy Machine?
Photocopiers make copies of visual images and documents onto paper, cheaply and quickly. The modern models make use of xerography technology—a process that features electrostatic charges and photoreceptors. Its toner is fused to the paper by pressure, heat, or both.
The Continued Value of the Copier
In government offices, the education sector, and the business industry are where copiers are the most used. Although there are rumors that these machines will become obsolete in no time, copiers until now are still widely used.
- The Evolution: It was in the 80s when multi-function models first existed—they combined copier, fax, scanner, and printer in one device. Digital copying is increasingly replacing analog technology, effectively integrating laser printing and scanning in its functions.
- Advantages: Digital copying has a lot of advantages, like improved image quality and automatic feeders.
Is a copy machine still valuable today? These questions sound silly for sure. But, it is pretty much obvious that this “simple” machine is still valuable. One thing is certain—although the world is getting digital, the need for copying will never be unpopular.
3. Why Copiers Remain Essential
From a logistic and technical perspective, the major reasons why copiers are still huge are:
- Affordable price per page printing/copying.
- Better printing/copying speed.
- Durable and dependable manufacturing.
- Intuitive, simple operations that are easy to master.
Even the more recent standalone models are digital in nature already. Hence, before rushing out to leasing or buying a brand new MFP and getting rid of your old, faithful copier—think about the benefits of owning two.
However, with new printers for offices, your best choice is a multi-function machine. They are available in black and white or monochrome, and there are models that are more affordable than those standalone ones.
If you are in Charlotte and you are looking for a Copier for your business, you may contact Clear Choice Technical Services in Charlotte. Charlotte Copier solutions provide the best value.
If you plan to get copiers for your office in Charlotte, you can opt to buy copiers or lease copiers in Charlotte. We can give you options for getting the copy machine that you want. You can contact our local copier leasing services department in your location.
For all services in Charlotte, call Clear Choice Technical Services:
- Phone: (704) 266-3866
- Our personnel for copier leasing in Charlotte will assist you. If you are ready to start the process, request a quote today.
For dedicated Copier Repair Services in Charlotte, please visit our Repair Services Website for immediate assistance. Our network is powered by Clear Choice Technical Services.
