A multifunctional device, abbreviated to MFD, is basically a copier-based device that provides an array of useful functions. A majority of MFDs combine the functions of a photocopyier, network printer, scanner, fax machine, and colour copying and printing. The quality and promptness of each of these functions, of course, depends on the make of the MFD.

Scanning
Scanning from a MFD means having a convenient way to move documents digitally. Most MFDs incorporate a touch screen display with the ability to set up ‘one-touch’ buttons to perform specific functions. This simply means, a button may be displayed on the screen that points to a particular user or network location. This enables users to carry their documents, place them in the document feeder and press the ‘one-touch’ button on the touch screen display. MFDs easily and quickly scan the document to the specific user or network location immediately.

Printing and Copying
Printing using a MFD can cut down printing costs. Although the initial purchase price may seem too large, in the long term, it is a good alternative especially for colour printing and copying.

While a typical office printer uses toner or ink cartridges translates to higher costs, a MFD vastly reduces the costs of printing. Many reputable authorised suppliers also offer a servicing agreement whereby the MFD will be completely maintained and repaired for a fixed cost per print/copy. In addition all parts, labour and toner (even colour toner) is included in this agreement.

Most organisations make huge long term savings by printing using a multifunctional devices instead of local/workgroup printers.

Faxing
Almost all MFDs incorporate a fax machine as well. As the device is built for handling a high throughput of scanned documents, the fax machine functionality is that of a high performance fax machine and, therefore, packs a big punch and can scan and fax large documents quickly and efficiently. Certain MFDs also enable incoming faxes to be sent electronically to the recipients email inbox directly without needing to be printed from the device itself.

RECOMMENDATIONS
HP Color LaserJet 2840
It is a flatbed all-in-one multifunctional device with laser printing technology can perform print, fax, scan, copy, and photo memory card capabilities into one relatively compact unit. It allows colour printing with maximum resolution of 600x600 dpi and Optical scanning resolution of 1200x1200 dpi. It uses maximum legal size paper and has the printing speed of 19 ppm in black and 4 ppm in colour. It comes with built-in HP Jetdirect 10/100 Fast Ethernet wired networking and hi-Speed USB 2.0.
MRP: Rs 59,900

Lexmark-X7350
This inkjet multifunctional device perfectly combines the abilities of a printer, scanner, copier, and fax machine at business-class speeds as well as manage and share color documents and photos. It produces high quality prints and copies and vivid scanning, satisfying even the most demanding user. It allows colour printing with maximum resolution of 4800x1200 dpi and print with the speed of 24 ppm for mono and 16 ppm for colour. It is compatible with USB 2.0 and PictBridge.
MRP: Rs 8,500

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