From: Tom@fandm.edu (Tom Mahoney - Network Tech.)
Newsgroups: comp.protocols.appletalk
Subject: Re: Abusing laserwriters, help!
Date: 28 Jul 92 15:22:53 GMT
Distribution: world
Organization: The Internet

>I have had this problem for some years now, and everywhere I look there
>is no real answers to the problem. In a University (or any institution)
>where there are Laserwriters, students tend to abuse the right to print.
>


We use the VendaCard from XCP, Inc.  It has been a reliable system
for almost 6 years now.  We are also using the card readers attached to
copy machines throughout the campus.

Essentially, the VendaCard reader is a device that gets installed in/on the
LaserWriter (we are an Apple/Mac campus, but they are available for almost
any printer).  In effect, it makes the LaserWriter think it is out of paper
unless a valid card is entered.  At the time of use, each page debits an
amount (controlled by dipswitch) from the card. Cards can be programmed
with more credit at any time.

Installation is rather simple with the good instructions they provide and,
assuming you have an authorized technician on staff (we are an Apple
authorized repair station) the installation won't void any warranty because
only interconnecting harnesses are involved - PCBs aren't touched.

We use dedicated computers to avoid hassels with two people trying to print
at the same time on one person's card but I suspect that this problem is
more perceived than it would be real.

There is the distinct advantage that this setup can be completely
unattended.  It also works in conjunction with several copiers on campus.
We are a 2000 student college and have found these units to be cost
effective.  I would suspect even better advantage could be realized in a
large university.

A few points of interest:
1) VendaCard comes in two modes: unit debit and cash debit.  _Always_ use
cash debit for LaserWriters.  This allows you to change the price of a page
as (in)frequently as you like and permits use on copiers as well since the
amount to debit is set by DIP switches inside each card reader.  Voila ...
$.05 for the copier and $.15 or whatever for the laser printer.

2) The VendaCard system also allows variable programming to permit/deny
use to different groups.  Ferinstance: printer A can be used by Faculty
and students, printer B only by Faculty, and copier C by anyone with a
card.

3) Our business office keeps the card programmer and administers the entire
card
purchase and recharge system.  That way students can pay by cash,
departments
can charge to the department and staff can charge to  their personal
accounts.

4) XCP can be reached at 40 Elm Street; Dryden, NY 13053-0819
        (607) 844-9143

I'll be glad to answer any other questions you may have.

Disclaimer: I have no connection to XCP other than as a satisfied user.




***************************************************************************
* FRANKLIN & MARSHALL COLLEGE            COMPUTER SERVICES - TECH. SUPPORT*
*      Thomas C. Mahoney, Computer Electronics Technician - Networks      *
* PO Box 3003                                              (717) 291-4005 *
* Lancaster, PA  17604      BITNET:TOM@FANDM/INTERNET:TOM@ADMIN.FANDM.EDU *
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Newsgroups: comp.protocols.appletalk