Memory (RAM, the same memory used in computers) is essential for supporting digital copier features such as scan once/print many, automatic page numbering, faxing, and printing. Additional memory can be added to boost productivity and enable more memory-intensive features. Insufficient memory will result in slower output and an inability to print or copy new documents.

In some cases, a fairly small cache of memory is dedicated for each function — copying, printing, and faxing. In other configurations, a single larger cache is shared between functions. Find out how memory is allocated before you decide on how much to buy.

Make sure your chosen machine accepts generic memory like SIMMs. Most do, but some holdouts still use proprietary memory systems — avoid them. If your copier accepts industry-standard memory, you will be able to easily purchase more memory if the need arises.

Copier memory

By holding a scanned image of each original page in memory, digital copiers are able to produce as many sets of documents as required without feeding the originals through again. The number of pages that can be duplicated with this "scan once/print many" feature depends on the size of the originals and the amount of detail. With less memory, the copier may be unable to complete larger copy jobs in one run.

Often, you can not take advantage of advanced image editing features without purchasing extra memory. Copiers come with anywhere from 4 MB to 256 MB and higher of RAM. If you intend to use any image editing features, or frequently produce complex documents with over 20 pages, make sure you get at least 16 MB of copier memory.

Fax memory

1 MB of fax memory holds about 60 – 80 pages, which should be enough for most offices. Unless you plan to hold many international faxes in memory to send during off-peak hours, you probably won't need to upgrade your fax memory.

Printer memory

Printer memory determines the overall efficiency and speed of the printer. As with the copier, more detailed documents will require more memory to process. In addition, memory-hungry printer languages such as PostScript can require memory for faster printing.

The standard 2 MB to 8 MB of memory many printers are equipped with is typically not enough for effective printing. Additional memory or hard drives are almost always available as an option.

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