Selecting multifunctional printers can be a daunting task. These suggestions should make your job easier.

By Kim Roessel

Manufacturers of digital printing equipment set the duty cycle for each MFP in their product line. The duty cycle is the rated capacity to continuously perform work under normal conditions. In other words, it is the sustainable volume that can be printed per month.

We do not recommend matching your average monthly copy volume to the manufacturer’s rated duty cycle when selecting a new MFP. In our experience, the manufacturer’s rated duty cycle is greatly overstated by a factor of two or three. Instead, consider the speed that you are looking for, your average monthly copy volume and your company’s potential to grow.