A staple of the office for decades, business copiers have come a long way since Xerox introduced the first fully automated plain-paper photocopier in 1959. Today's models have more in common with computers than they do with that first Xerox 914: modern business copiers combine copying, laser printing, faxing, scanning, and more into one network copier machine.

The copier industry generates $24 billion in revenue by selling over 1.5 million new copiers each year. This huge market drives manufacturers to constantly improve their offerings and leads to a highly competitive market among the vendors who install and service copiers.

Analog vs. digital

One of the main questions to ask when comparing multiple copier providers is whether you should buy a digital copier or analog machine. No longer: the answer now is a resounding "digital."

It makes little sense to buy analog these days — most manufacturers have stopped introducing new analog models, and there is little price difference between analog and digital copiers with similar features.

The advantages of digital machines are many:

• They combine the functions of copiers, network printers, and fax machines
• Fewer moving parts means less mechanical breakdowns
• Less noise makes for a quieter business environment
• They are better reproducing fine lines and photographs

Some people like the simplicity of analog copiers — they can be simpler to operate, with just one button to press to make a copy. However with even minimal training, your staff will quickly get used to operating a digital machine.

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