Print/Scan/Fax/Copiers

[Glutton4...]

Yes, me again! But, hey, at least it keeps me off the 'Rant' thread!

I have an ancient DeskJet printer, and need a bigger one that will print up to A3 size. I also need a scanner/copier, so was wondering should I buy a 4-in-1 unit or separate? I don't think I really need the Fax facility, but it may come in handy.

Which makes would you recommend or avoid?

Thanks in advance!

[Potstubsdustbins]

I have a HP Photosmart 3210 all in one, not big enough for your needs, but I have had it for some 8 years and touich wood have had no problems.

Colin

[Glutton4...]

Thanks Colin. I've been looking on the 'Bay, and even looking at used items in the more robust models, as I don't mind a used one, as long as it does the job, and I can get a warranty with it.

I was once recommended not to use HP as they all 'pick up' the paper from below, and the 'pick-ups' wear out, then they mis-feed. Having said that, I've never experienced it. The same person suggested Eps*n as they generally feed from the top.

Just thought I'd pick your collective brains...

[Hazel at the Hill]

Personally, I wouldn't bother with the fax - I can't think of a situation these days where someone would have a fax but no pc/email facility, so the fax is pretty much redundant as you can always scan and email (also it's better resolution and in colour, of course).

I would also think about how vital the A3 bit is - you will be looking a 'business' machines with that facility which will be much more than 50 - 80 quids worth of A4 scanner/printer, and if it's only occasionally that you need to do A3 copies, your local library/business centre will have an A3 output facility.

Also, think about cartridge costs - these will soon cost you more than the initial cost of your printer/scanner!

I use a canon mp620 in the office, which gets some serious use - it has separate colour cartridges, and now it is a few years old, (and doesn't owe me anything), I use compatible cartridges not the canon originals. Cost was the reason for this - full set of cannon cartridges is over £50, the compatables about £30.

[Glutton4...]

Thanks, Hazel. I need A3 for artwork reproductions, and it must be top quality, which is why I was considering a used, warranted pro jobbie.

Personally, I don't think £50 is excessive for a set of cartridges, providing they last a reasonable length of time. I've found that, in the long run, refills and compatibles just aren't worth the money, or the hassle, and I now stick with genuine items.

I'm guessing, by the lack of response on here, that there are no well-known horror stories with any particular brand or model.

[Hazel at the Hill]

Thanks, Hazel. I need A3 for artwork reproductions, and it must be top quality, which is why I was considering a used, warranted pro jobbie.

My big sis plays with pencils too - she goes to a printer (man) for him to reproduce the full size work before she takes it to be framed, as he will always produce better copies than she could (she's on the south coast so that's not much good to you).

Personally, I don't think £50 is excessive for a set of cartridges, providing they last a reasonable length of time.

I've found that, in the long run, refills and compatibles just aren't worth the money, or the hassle, and I now stick with genuine items.

We whack through cartridges here so compatibles make sense for us, although would agree with you about using the 'real' ones but if we used the printer less and there was a risk of cheaper ink sitting around clogging up the print head.