Thursday, December 2, 2010

Multifunction Printers (MFP)

Digital copiers use modules to combine the functions of copiers, network printers, scanners, fax machines, and even e-mail devices into a single piece of equipment. Multifunction Printers (MFP) are available for businesses of all sizes--from home offices to large enterprises. The cost, output quality, and other included features vary greatly from model to model, but generally they all perform the same functions - Print, Scan, Fax, and Photocopy. You'll find that copiers for the commercial/enterprise markets utilize laser printing technology while in the personal/small business area, ink-jet printer technology is more widely used. While they may cost less ink-jet printers don't typically deliver the performance and color saturation demanded by larger businesses. That's rapidly changing though. Enterprise copiers using ink-jet technology have recently been introduced and are gaining some acceptance.

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Controlling Expenses

Many businesses find they have a glaring need for a copier but don't have the budget for a capital outlay. In this case, a copier lease may be the best option. It allows businesses to pay a fixed monthly cost without the large upfront costs. Progressive Copier Systems works with businesses to provide a cost-effective lease option.

Additionally, investing in used copiers is a great way to significantly cut your costs. These machines are typically very new and they've been completely overhauled to match new factory settings. You get the benefits of a new copier at a cost affordable price. Leasing a used copier can make a copier affordable for even the most cost-conscious business executive.

In today's business world, choosing the right copier can be confusing. The professionals at Progressive Copier Systems will be glad to sit down with you to help you find the right choice to fit your needs and budget. You can visit our website or feel free to give us a call at (619) 593-1000

Thursday, November 25, 2010

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Digital Color Copiers

Color copiers support color printing and work much like a computer scanner connected to a laser printer. A color copier scans a document and then uses a laser to put the information on an image drum. The copier then fuses the image onto paper. High-end color copiers will transfer the image in one pass while lower-end color copiers may take as many as four passes to make the transfer. Something to keep in mind; lower cost copiers have slower copying speeds. As far as costs, you'll find that color copiers will typically cost 20-30% more than similarly rated black and white copiers. You'll also need to examine your copying needs. Businesses requiring extremely accurate graphic reproductions will need to invest in a dedicated graphic color copier which provides very accurate print-quality color specifications and faster processors. Progressive Copier Systems can help you determine what your needs are.

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Hybrid Copiers

These are great for businesses that only need occasional color printing and copying. Hybrid copiers print in black and white mode but can switch to color mode when necessary. A hybrid saves cost by cutting down on the costs of supplies such as color toners, fuser oil and paper. They allow you to keep your operating costs down while still giving you the benefits of a color copier when necessary. Call Progressive Copier Systems today (619) 593-1000

Monday, November 8, 2010

Cleaning Your Copier

Have you ever had an important job running on your copier and when you see the finished product, you find lines running through your copies? There are several common causes. After more than 20-years in the business, the copier repair professionals at Progressive Copier Systems have seen just about everything and we offer these tips to help you get crisp, clean copies every time.

There are several common causes of copies with lines through them. The vast majority of these problems can be addressed with a simple cleaning. If this doesn't help, our technicians are available to help get your copier running smoothly.

The first thing you'll want to do is clean the glass where you put your originals. A dirty platen glass can cause black streaks and smudges to appear, Make sure to use lint-free towels and isopropyl alcohol and make sure that everything dries completely before using your copier.

Sometimes, dirty or extra toner can get caught in the exit area where your copies come out of the copier. There are usually fine, soft brushes attached to the copy machine that will sweep away dirt particles from exiting copies but these brushes can get dirty. Remove them by gently pulling them away from the copier and clean them with mild soap and water. Replace them after they are fully dry.

The next thing to check is the drum unit. It's the round, shiny unit. The first thing to do is to make sure the copier is unplugged. Warning: The drum unit is very sensitive and can be easily scratched or damaged. Make sure you remove any watches and rings before you begin.

Using a soft mylar brush, gently remove any dirt or surface dust on the drum and then check the machine. If your copier is still out-putting streaked or lined copies, unplug the machine and clean the drum with isopropyl alcohol and a lint-free towel. Let the drum dry completely before plugging your copier back in and turning it back on.

The last area that could cause problems is the fusing section. It's prone to dirt and toner build up but because of the electrical wiring and complexity, you'll want to make sure a certified technician is the only one to examine your fusing section. The fusing section is prone to dirt and toner build up and can create lines across your copies.

Of course the easiest way to avoid problems is to schedule regular maintenance of your copiers. Progressive Copier Systems can help. Our expert San Diego copier repair technicians are trained and certified to provide maintenance and repair to help protect your investment for years to come. Visit our website for on-line maintenance and repair specials or call us at (619) 593-1000

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Analog vs. Digital

Today most of the copiers on the market are digital—they have hard drives just like your computer. But analog machines are still available. Older analog copiers have an advantage in simplicity over newer digital models. With one click of a button, your copying project begins. single button. However, digital black and white and digital color copiers are packed with a lot more features that businesses have come to rely on these days. Digital copiers, also called multifunction printers (MFPs), produce less noise than analog copiers, have fewer moving parts meaning fewer maintenance problems, and can produce more detailed photocopies.

For most businesses, it just makes little sense to invest in analog copiers these days. Most copier manufacturers have stopped producing new analog models and as costs have come down, there is little price difference between analog and digital copiers with similar features. For most companies the only compelling reason not to invest in a digital copier is the worry about technological challenges. That's why Progressive Copiers Systems provides training for our customers. Even people who are technologically-phobic find digital copiers easy to use once they understand how it works.

Monday, November 1, 2010

A Checklist For Your Copier Purchase

Today's copiers have come a long way since their introduction more than 50-years ago. What started as a machine to make basic black-and-white copies of documents has evolved into a complex business tool that can do everything from printing digital images to scanning and sending faxes. But all these added capabilities have also made the buying or leasing process much more complicated.

Progressive Copier Systems has been helping San Diego businesses find the right copier at an affordable price for nearly 25 years now. Here's a checklist for you to use to make your next new or used copier purchase easier. When comparing copy machines, make sure you consider factors such as features, printing capabilities, size and speed to find the right copier to meet your needs. Also make sure you consider long-term costs—such as copier repair and maintenance.

The first thing to do is compare copy speed between the machines you're considering. The speed of a copy machine is given in pages per minute (ppm) or copies per minute (cpm). Most copiers on the market today range from 20 to 50 ppm. If your company requires a large volume of copies, or speed is a factor, choose a copier with a high ppm.

Next you'll want to check the available features for each unit you're considering. While the most basic copiers simply makes copies, more advanced units can scan, print from your computer or even send faxes. Look for a unit that has the functions you need, but don't pay extra for functions that you'll rarely—if ever—use.

Checkout different copier printing technologies. According to "Abby's Guide," laser copiers are the least expensive models if all you need to do is create basic black and white copies. Inkjet units cost more, but offer more flexibility for color copying and other options.

If high-quality color copies are required, choose a unit with a high resolution (measured in pixels) for the best image quality.

Make sure to ask about features like stapling, folding, collating, hole punching or duplex printing. Some copiers can perform all of these functions, while others may perform only a few. Select the ones that are most in line with your needs.

The one area most companies forget to check is space. Some copy machines can be quite large, and require a great deal of floor space. If the copier is going in a small room, make sure to choose a unit that will fit.

Think about paper size and type. Some special projects require fairly large sheets of paper and might require special types of paper. The most basic copy machines will most likely only accept smaller, standard paper sizes, and some units may have trouble feeding certain types of paper. Look for a unit that is capable of handling the paper you plan to use.

Finally think about on-going costs. Setting up regular maintenance and repair intervals will help keep your new or used copier running at peak performance for years to come

Because of the complexity of today's copiers, choosing the right one can seem like a daunting proposition. Progressive Copier Systems has been helping customers find the right business machine for more than two decades now. We'll be glad to sit down with you to sort through choices for new copiers or used copiers and develop a financing plan to meet even the tightest budgets. We offer the lowest price on on-site and off-site copier repairs and service. When you're looking for your next copier, consider the experts at Progressive Copier Systems. You can reach us at (619) 593-1000 and don't forget to check our website at http://www.progressivecopier.com for our hot specials.

Friday, October 29, 2010

Paper

The most efficient paper for copiers is that which is labeled 'copy' or 'bond' paper. Laser copier and inkjet paper will also work fairly well, but high-speed copiers should have paper marked specifically for copying.

Paper for copiers is sold in reams of 500 sheets. For the paper to feed through the copier properly, the ream should be fanned before insertion into the paper tray. This removes static electricity and allow the paper to feed through the copier one sheet at a time.

Notice the arrow on the wrapper that indicates which side is the recommended printable side of the paper. Remove the wrapping from the ream and ensure you remember which is the printable side. Keep the paper in a neat stack as much as possible.

Eliminate and discard any wrinkled pages from the top or bottom. Make sure the corners of the stack are not bent or crushed. If the corner of the full ream is damaged, the paper could possibly not feed through the copier correctly.

Hold the ream on one short side with one hand. With the other hand, flip the other end of the ream similar to the way you would view a flip book. Quickly page through the entire ream a few times.

Hold the ream at the other short side and repeat the flipping process. This separates the pages and eliminates static electricity so the pages will likely not stick together inside the copier.

Place the ream in the paper drawer of the copier with the printable side up.

Moisture adversely affects copier paper so don't take the wrapper off until you are ready to load it into the copier since the wrapper has a moisture barrier. Store the paper flat and keep it off the ground in a dry area.

These tips should help you avoid the dreaded paper jam and keep your copier working smoothly. And as always, Progressive Copier Systems is there for you if you need copier repair and service. We offer both on-site and off-site copier service and repair at very cost affordable prices. Give us a call at (619) 593-1000 or visit our website at http://www.progressivecopier.com

Thursday, October 28, 2010

Give us a call or find us on the web!

Progressive Copier Systems, Inc.
1444 Pioneer Way #4
El Cajon, CA 92020 (San Diego County)

(619) 593-1000 Copier Sales, Supplies, Hard Drive Services
(619) 920-3370 Technical Assistance

http://www.progressivecopier.com/

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Copier Hard Drive Security

Most of the copiers produced since 2002 contain hard drives that store sensitive records and other organizational information such as email addresses and network data.

Our forensic specialists have recovered confidential documents from copiers used in a number of security sensitive fields including financial services, schools, non-profits and medical services.

So, where does the data go? Some used copiers are resold through dealers in the U.S., however, many machines are loaded into cargo containers and shipped overseas with confidential data intact. Do you know where your information went? While some manufacturers offer security add-ons, most users still have no idea how to adequately protect their information. PCSI offers solutions!

Progressive Copier Systems, Inc.
1444 Pioneer Way, Suite #4
El Cajon, CA 92020 (San Diego County)
619-593-1000 Hard Drive Services
619-920-3370 Technical Assistance

http://www.progressivecopiers.com