MAKING YOUR DECISION
Whether you are buying new or refurbished copy machines, here are three questions you'll need to answer:
- What do I need the copier to do?
Modern digital copiers are sometimes referred to as "multifunctional products (peripheral/printer)" because they can do more than just copy. Almost all are also capable of printing, faxing, and scanning. You may want extensive document handling and sorting/stapling features. And you also need to decide whether you need a copier that supports color scanning and/or printing.
- What is my volume?
Start with your current copy volume. Your monthly paper consumption, the built-in counter in your existing copier, and your print shop receipts can all be used to help determine your current volume.
Once you have a rough volume figure, increase it by at least 20%. This will help you account for future growth.
- How fast do I need it?
Copier speed is measured in pages per minute (ppm): the number of letter-sized pages the machine can produce in one minute when running at full speed. Most offices will get by comfortably with machines in the 20 to 50 ppm range.
