Printers are devices that are capable of transferring data stored in a computer to a human readable, hard copy usually a paper (Andrews, 2010). Many printers are peripherals that are directly connected to local personal computers. Printers allow computer users to print cards, emails, announcements and other materials. Networked printers are used in multi user and can be shared by users across an environment. Printers print documents from a variety of sources including memory cards and scanners. Today’s printer is multipurpose and comes with an collection of functionalities including scanning and faxing (Andrews, 2010). There are several types of printers and are often based on the kind of technology that they utilize; this includes Inkjet printers and laser printers. Inkjet printers create an image by propelling tiny droplets of inks on a paper while a laser printer utilizes a light or a focused beam to transfer images and text onto a paper (Sandler, 2007).
The HP Photosmart 7510
At a cost of 120 dollars, this is a budget multipurpose printer that is suited for a variety of purposes from the HP Company. Its print quality and its wider features are a greater improvement on the previous models. The multiple network connectivity options are considerably improved and connect either through a USB port or through a Wi-Fi (Hp Photosmart 7510 e-All-in-One Review-Watch CNET's Video Review, 2012). It also has AirPrint for printing from devices manufactured by Apple. In addition, with ePrint, a user can email documents to his printer through the internet. In terms of usability, the Photosmarts clear, intuitive touch screen coupled with and icon-driven interface make it extremely easy for use. It also has the Auto-Duplex option to let the user select the two-sided printing option. Access to various services in the internet like facebook, print calendars and checking local weather forecasts is enabled at a reasonable price. These services are available and growing in the HP app store. The HP Photosmart also puts in quick output speeds and an excellent printing performance with beautifully realized text. The photo printing quality is also clear and vibrant. It combines the functionality of a scanner, printer and copier in an aesthetic design and is quite small measuring 17.9 inches long by 17.6 inches tall and 7.7 inches wide.
Scanners are devices that can scans image and other text objects into digital images, which is normally a binary representation of two dimensional images. Various types of scanners are available in the market and includes; desktop scanners, flatbed, hand-held scanners which are moved using hands and 3D scanners that are used in industrial engineering and gaming (Morley & Parker, 2010). Specialized scanners are also available for photo scanners, book scanners and business-card scanners. At 60 dollars, the CanoScan LiDE110 Color Image Scanner from Canon is a reasonable balance between cost and rich functionalities. It offers 2400 pixel per inch optical resolution and a high quality document scan quality. The LiDE110 comes with several softwares including the MP Navigator EX scan utility that provides various photo enhancement features and with built in optical character recognition (OCR). It is relatively easy to use and come with four buttons that automates all the scanning process and that lets users scan, copy, email or run the AutoScan feature(Amazon.com:Canon CanoScan 4507B002 LiDE110 Color Image Scanner,2012). In addition, the OCR lets the user convert the scanned document into a searchable Portable Document File (PDF). The Z-Lid expansion lid can lift vertically and the user can scan thick documents. The scanner also gives the user the options of adjusting the brightness, resolution, contrast and color. LiDE110 scanner also provides a driver that provides features such as dust removal and backlight correction that can substantially improve the quality of a scan. It is also Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) compliant and requires remarkably little energy in order to be powered by a USB connection. It also uses an LED light that is mercury free, and Canon already has a recycling programme for the scanner. In summary, it offers a unique combination consisting of ease of use, digital enhancement features all in an extremely affordable scanner.
Amazon.com:Canon CanoScan 4507B002 LiDE110 Color Image Scanner. (2012, November 16). Retrieved November 16, 2012, from amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Canon-CanoScan-4507B002-LiDE110-Scanner/dp/B003VQR1UC
Andrews, J. (2010). A+ guide to managing and maintaining your PC (7th ed.). Australia: Course Technology.
Hp Photosmart 7510 e-All-in-One Review-Watch CNET's Video Review. (2012, November 16). Retrieved November 15, 2012, from cnet: http://reviews.cnet.com/multifunction-devices/hp-photosmart-7510-e/4505-3181_7-35042430.html
Morley, D., & Parker, C. S. (2010). Understanding computers: today and tomorrow (12th ed., 2009 ed.). Boston, Mass.: Course Technology Cengage Learning.
Sandler, C. (2007). Fix your own PC (8th ed.). Hoboken, NJ: Wiley Pub..
