Document copiers were once found only in large offices with the infrastructure and budget to support a significant investment in the technology (and the cost of copier supplies that went along with it). In 2009, not only are more companies able to afford their own copiers, but the technology "under the hood" in these essential devices has advanced more in the past ten years than anyone could have imagined.

Important Advances in Copiers

Higher Quality Imaging

Copier imaging technology has come so far in the last decade that it is now virtually impossible to tell the difference between the copies and the source materials. Individuals raised on PC scanners have become accustomed to this level of quality - which is now available on all modern office copiers.

Affordable Color Copies

There was a time not that long ago when businesses had to break the bank in order to afford their own color copier. Today, companies of all sizes can enjoy high quality color copies for presentations and other uses at a cost of only pennies per page. Plus, the color copiers themselves have come way down in price over the past decade.

Computer Network Integration

Now, many copiers do not even require a "hard" original to perform duplication tasks. Networked copiers are able to receive a document electronically from a PC and then produce the appropriate copies. This incredibly popular and useful feature is becoming standard on more and more copier machines each year.

Document Management

Another ground-breaking copier technology, document management allows copies to stores digital files representing everything that has been duplicated on a giver copier. This can be an incredible time-saver when dealing with oft-copied documents as well as giving the companies access to countless vital documents at the click of a mouse.

Durability

Historically, the copier repair guy was such an ever-present figure around the office that many people were surprised when he didn't show up for the holiday party or corporate outings. Office copiers today are well-constructed and self-maintaining - meaning that they are less likely to require regular service.

Multi-tasking

Many of the top copiers in the industry do more than just copy. Businesses have come to expect multi-function capabilities in their copiers which includes printing, scanning and faxing. These all-in-one devices represent a new movement for offices that have limited floor space and need to get the most out of every dollar spent internally.

More Toner Options

One of the biggest obstacles for companies wanting their own copiers has always been toner. Many could find a way to afford the copier itself, but over time, the cost of the toner and other supplies would simply create too much red ink. In the 21st Century, many companies with an eye on the environment now offer recycled toner cartridges refilled with toner. This is one of many less-expensive options now on the table for companies that want to keep copying even after the low-toner light has started to flash.