Multifunction device

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Multifunctional device with copier, printer, scanner and fax function

A multifunctional device (also called all-in-one device , MuFuG , Mufu , multifunction printer , MFD or MFP (for multi-function printer )) combines the functions of several devices that are otherwise separately purchased in one housing. The price is usually lower than if all components with the same quality and functionality are purchased individually. In 2017, around 28 million Germans had access to a multifunctional device in their own household, which would be around a third of the population.

Types of multifunction devices

This term is mostly used for devices that replace a printer , a scanner , a copier and sometimes a fax and then sometimes also an (analog) telephone with a single multifunctional device. Some of these devices use an internal inkjet printer , while others use a laser printer . There are black and white and color devices in both areas.

There are a number of other multifunctional devices that run under different names, such as the smartphone .

Advantages over single devices

  • cheaper purchase price
  • less space required
  • short commutes as everything is concentrated in one device
  • Consolidation of all functions in one device
  • Devices can usually also work without being connected to a PC, for example to make copies
  • uniform operating concept
  • Use of a single power source, a device connection and assignment of a network socket
  • lower energy consumption
  • Configuration only required for one device

Disadvantages compared to single devices

  • Functional and qualitative compromises compared to specialized individual devices (for example, inexpensive SOHO multifunction devices usually only have simple CIS scanners with a very shallow depth of field )
  • Size and weight are generally larger than that of the individual devices
  • Errors can affect all functions of the device
  • The entire device must always be replaced if you want to replace a partial device.

Individual evidence

  1. Printers and scanners - owned in the household in Germany 2017. Accessed on 23 September 2018.
  2. Print, scan, copy, fax - product finder printer . Website of the Stiftung Warentest . Retrieved April 26, 2012.