Printers are broadly classified under Laser and InkJet. Lasers are expensive, but faster and the quality is good enough only for document printing. Inkjets are cheaper but slower though the quality is good for photo printouts. Consequently, Lasers are currently more apt for business use and InkJets for personal use and photo printing.
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The technologies used in printing include Inkjet, Laser, Dot Matrix and Thermal. InkJets are the most popular for home use and are generally less expensive. Laser is faster and renders a higher image quality. Dot Matrix and Thermal are usually designed for specific business and small business uses.
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Different scanners use different interfaces (basically wire jacks and connections) to connect to other devices, such as your computer. Some interfaces are able to transmit data faster than others - but the most important factor is making sure the interface of the scanner matches that of the device you want to use it with.
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A Desktop's form factor describes the physical size and shape of the system. In general, towers and larger form factors offer more space for add-ons and cost less than smaller counterparts.
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The size and format of paper (media) that the printer is designed to print with. Most machines will print on A4 (210 x 297mm) individual sheets at a time. Receipt or payroll printers will use a roll of paper which will print continually on a area with predefined page breaks. Other more specialized machines also can print on envelopers, folders or ledgers.
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The networking type represents the networking standards that the system will use to transfer information to and from other computers. Most systems can be modified with additional external or internal devices to include more standards.
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