Multi-Functional Communication Machines

16/04/2008

All-in-One Machines, the One For All?

The argument for purchasing an all-in-one printer seems simple: space. When it comes to the office or a desk at home it’s not so much the final frontier as will it fit in here. By combining printing, scanning, copying and even faxing in a single unit, all-in-one (or multi-function device - MFD) machines offer a much smaller ‘footprint’ than a combination of separate devices.

But Size Isn’t Everything

There’s more to consider than just the clear convenience of saving space, not that that isn’t a major, major plus – today’s multi-function machines are often barely larger than a printer. Alongside that smaller footprint all-in-ones have a lower carbon footprint as a single power supply significantly cuts energy consumption. Models equipped with OCR – optical character recognition – allow you to scan files straight to PC whilst integrated faxes automatically provide logs, so transmissions can be better managed and tracked. Faxes can also be sent via a PC or feeding a document in the old fashioned way. Newer models also have SD and CompactFlash memory card slots so you don’t need to load files to a PC whilst Wi-Fi enabled machines add even greater flexibility.

Lower Maintenance Costs

Businesses and home users alike will appreciate that a single unit is easier and cheaper to maintain than several. But the other side of the coin is that if one function fails, then you lose all whilst it’s repaired or replaced. Which brings us to the cons. Think of an MFD like a music system. Higher priced hi-fi separates tend to reward with better sound, whilst systems offer cost and space savings with some concession to quality. Barring top end machines the same may be true of all-in-ones. Use of decent print and scan engines mean print speed and quality is pretty good, but if you have a frequent requirement for high quality print jobs a dedicated machine may be a better choice.

It’s worth checking consumable costs. A higher priced laser machine may be better value long-term than a toner-consuming inket for example. Better models also offer greater print options such as gloss photographic paper, labels, CDs and DVDs. A final word to Mac users – check compatibility as not all MFDs will bite on your Apple!

The decision to buy separates or an MFD comes down to your needs – space, use and cost. For small and medium-sized businesses and home users their pros may well outweigh those cons.

See our range of Fax Machines and Printers.

Glossary - OCR