The copying capability lets a machine serve as both copier and a printer, providing a flexible option for workgroup use. Although primarily used as color devices, all can operate as black and white units, although cost per monochrome page may be slightly higher than on a similar black and white printer. Print resolution ranges from 400 to 600 dpi. The RIP software provides an interface for specifying quantities, binding options, pagination and even the sequence in which multiple jobs will print. The time required to RIP the job varies with the size and complexity of the pages being printed and the RIP s processing capabilities.
Embedded RIPs are usually slower than external versions, but are much less expensive .
External RIPs must be purchased separately. Some manufacturers offer a choice of embedded or external RIPs on a given machine, often with different processing speeds, print resolutions and other options. Canon, Minolta, Ricoh and Xerox are the leaders with a range of machines for different workgroup environments. Canon copiers have been a standard feature in many offices for years and their connected copiers have long provided excellent color prints with a high degree of reliability in corporate and print shop environments. Although limited to 400 dpi, image quality is more than adequate for most network color printing requirements.