At best, you may only lose files if the power goes out, but you may ruin the computers beyond repair in the event of a major power surge. If you can only afford one, get the color printer. Talk to your consultants about how to connect the printers. A third option for connecting multiple computers to one or more printers without a LAN is to do so through switch boxes. You'll also need print drivers on every computer that is connected to a printer.
Print drivers are software programs that translate between the computer and the printer languages.
They should come with the printers, but you can also get them at the manufacturer's Web site, if necessary. Most printers do not come with cables, and you have to be sure to have the right cables for your printer and its connection to your computer and switch boxes. The other output device you may want to consider is a projecting device that can be connected to a computer in the lab or to laptops brought in by others. This device will allow you to project whatever you' re working on to a screen or wall for demonstrations. The prices on digital cameras have dropped dramatically in recent months, especially for what are now considered low-end cameras.