subject: Printer Supplies: More than Just Paper and Toner [print this page] Printer Supplies: More than Just Paper and Toner
High performance printers are known for the amazing tasks that they can perform. They can duplex, sort, and even staple the documents they create. With this remarkable range of functionality comes the need for a bit of extra maintenance and some unusual supplies too.
Let's first consider the importance of using the right paper and toner for the machine. Whether you have a large-scale laser printer or a photographic ink jet printer you absolutely must opt to purchase only the recommended supplies. Many vendors offer customers excellent "startup kits" that can introduce the owner to the best options for their equipment.
For example, there are products like the Xerox Supplies Startup Kit for Phaser 8500 series printers. These present the new owner with samples of the best cartridges and plain papers to use for their work. The same can be said about many other major brands such as Canon, HP, Epson and Lexmark too.
Of course, when your high quality printer is able to do such tasks as stapling it might be tempting to save a few bucks by purchasing a generic set of supplies, but this is simply asking for trouble. If you have a Ricoh SR960, then you should purchase the SR960 Staple Cartridge refill. If you use the HP LaserJet 9050n, then you must purchase the HP Staple Cartridges for that particular series too.
Many of the better printer suppliers also make handy maintenance kits available for all of their machines too. These might include everything from waste toner collection units to new fuser units. The important thing is to read all of the documentation that comes with your model of printer and determine a regular routine that will keep it in top notch operation. For instance, the Xerox Maintenance Kit for the DocuPrint C4525 Series comes with a fuser cartridge, a transfer roll, fifteen feed rollers, and the instructions for updating these frequently worn out parts. On the other hand, Canon makes a simple to install maintenance cartridge available for many of its printers, particularly the Canon imagePROGRAF series.
These are obviously just simple examples of the many types of supplies that are required to keep any printer in its best condition. Additionally, it is always a good idea to consider the environment around the printer too. For example, purchasing a static reducing floor mat, and keeping the machine away from direct sun and strong heat sources will all work to keep the machine in good condition and generating optimal results.
