Printers are integral to every office, but their functionality can be significantly enhanced with the right accessories. From increasing paper capacity to simplifying tasks like double-sided printing, the right tools can streamline your workflow and improve productivity. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 must-have printer accessories that can make your office printing experience faster, easier, and more efficient.
- High-Capacity Paper Trays:
- Why You Need It: If your office handles high-volume print jobs, running out of paper frequently can be disruptive. A high-capacity paper tray allows your printer to hold more sheets, reducing the need for constant refills and increasing workflow efficiency.
- Example: The HP LaserJet 500-sheet Feeder Tray is compatible with most LaserJet printers and adds significant paper capacity, making it ideal for large office environments.
- Automatic Document Feeder (ADF):
- Why You Need It: If your office needs to scan or copy multi-page documents frequently, an automatic document feeder (ADF) can save a lot of time. Instead of manually feeding each page, the ADF handles it for you, streamlining scanning and copying tasks.
- Example: The Canon DR-C225 Document Scanner with ADF allows you to scan stacks of documents in one go, saving time and effort.
- Duplexer for Double-Sided Printing:
- Why You Need It: Printing on both sides of the paper not only saves paper but also makes documents look more professional. Many printers now come with built-in duplexers, but if yours doesn’t, consider adding one.
- Example: The Brother Duplex Print Unit is an add-on that automatically turns the paper over for double-sided printing.
- External Hard Drive for Print Storage:
- Why You Need It: Storing print jobs can take up a lot of space, especially for large format or graphic-intensive files. An external hard drive dedicated to your printer allows you to store files and access them quickly for reprints without slowing down your computer or network.
- Example: The Seagate Portable 1TB External Hard Drive is an affordable and efficient storage solution for managing large print jobs.
- Wireless Print Server:
- Why You Need It: A wireless print server allows you to turn any standard printer into a wireless one. This is perfect for offices where multiple users need to access the printer without the hassle of tangled cables or a central location.
- Example: The TP-Link TL-WPS510U Wireless Print Server is compatible with most printers and enables wireless printing for multiple users.
- Print Management Software:
- Why You Need It: Print management software helps track usage, set printing quotas, and reduce waste. It can also provide detailed reports on print usage across the office, helping to identify areas where you can save money.
- Example: PaperCut MF is a popular print management software that allows for tracking and controlling printing within large offices.
- Surge Protector:
- Why You Need It: Power surges can damage printers and other office equipment. A surge protector safeguards your printer and ensures it operates efficiently without the risk of electrical damage.
- Example: The APC SurgeArrest P11VT3 is designed for office environments and offers protection against voltage spikes and power surges.
- Printer Stand:
- Why You Need It: If your office space is limited, a printer stand can help organize and save space. Many stands come with additional storage for paper, ink cartridges, and other accessories, keeping everything neatly in one place.
- Example: The Safco Under-Desk Printer Stand is a compact option that fits under most desks and provides extra storage space for printer supplies.
- Printer Dust Cover:
- Why You Need It: Dust accumulation can damage printers over time, causing mechanical failures and print quality issues. A dust cover protects your printer when it’s not in use, extending its lifespan and ensuring it stays in good working condition.
- Example: The Fellowes Printer Dust Cover is designed to fit a range of printer sizes and keeps dust and debris at bay.
- Printer Maintenance Kits:
- Why You Need It: Printer maintenance kits come with essential cleaning supplies and replacement parts like rollers and belts. Regular maintenance using these kits can prevent breakdowns and ensure that your printer operates smoothly.
- Example: The HP LaserJet Maintenance Kit includes replacement fusers and rollers for common printer models, ensuring optimal performance.
Conclusion:
Enhancing your office printer with these accessories can greatly improve efficiency, reduce downtime, and extend the life of your equipment. Whether it’s something simple like a dust cover or an advanced tool like print management software, investing in the right accessories will streamline your operations and help your business run more smoothly.