The multi-functional bizhub C550 color document imaging system introduced by Konica Minolta features a network printer, copier and network scanner functionality. Combining a radical design with new technology, this MFP can print or copy in color at 45ppm or in black & white at 55ppm.

The striking design enables the copier to be placed over a power/ network hub outlet in the center of an office without showing any cables; manifesting perfectly the concept of a networked document imaging system being at the heart of the business enterprise.
Beyond aesthetics, the bizhub C550 is designed to help users operate the product easily, with a clear display with LEDs indicating paper levels, job status and job processing. The device comes with an 8-inch full color display with a touch screen that can be rotated and tilted to meet viewing requirements.

The innovative Induction Fusing technology allows for image fusing at lower temperature than conventional fusing, thereby reducing the warm up time to just about 30 seconds.

From a security perspective, the bizhub C550 has an optional biometric finger vein authentication scanner, which allows users to use the system without remembering user names and passwords, while at the same time, making it as secure as possible. The device also comes with features such as sorting, stapling, saddle stitching and 2- & 4-hole punching capabilities.

Leading office equipment maker Ricoh Corp has released the Ricoh Aficio MP 1600/MP 2000 Series of digital imaging systems that provide copy, print, scan and fax features in one unit.
Besides the pre-configured MP 1600spf and MP 2000spf that offer standard digital copying, printing, scanning and faxing, the company’s MP 1600L/MP 2000L Series provides copying, PCL6 printing and TWAIN scanning capabilities. This series is ideally suited for small businesses that require an economical package.
The MP 1600/MP 2000 has output speeds of 16ppm for the MP 1600 and 21ppm for the MP 2000. They have a maximum paper capacity of up to 1,350 sheets on the MP 1600 and 1,600 sheets on the MP 2000. Optional Automatic Data Feeder (ADF) can be added to both machines, enabling easy processing of double-sided documents.
Several optional features such as advanced scanning to convert documents to TIFF or PDF that can be encrypted and securely shared are also available.
The above products are likely to be available in the price range of $2300 to $3475.

Canon has announced the roll out of the imageCLASS MF4690 MFP for small offices that offers advanced send features enabling users to scan-to -e-mail, -file, -fax, or -USB memory port in the user's choice of JPEG, TIFF, PDF or high-compression PDF formats. The MFP also comes with built-in networking features and duplexing capabilities.
The imageCLASS MF4690 monochrome laser MFP prints and copies at speeds up to 21 pages-per-minute (ppm) for letter-sized output at up to 1200 x 600 dots-per-inch (dpi) print resolution. The device can also scan in 24-bit color or grayscale at an interpolated resolution of up to 9600 dpi from the platen glass or the ADF. The MFP also offers facsimile features with eight one-touch speed dial numbers, 100 coded speed dial numbers, 512-page memory capacity, PC Faxing, and two-sided duplex output.
With a 35-page ADF, the device can do one-to-two sided copying, printing, and faxing. It comes with a 250-sheet front-loading paper cassette. It can copy up to 8.5 inches x 14 inches (legal) from the ADF or letter-sized using the platen glass. Another important feature is that it combines the toner and drum in one easy-to-replace unit.

Epson has introduced the fast, quiet and easy to use AcuLaser C3800N series of laser printers, which provides added security with the capability to print directly from a USB memory stick. Ideally suited for A4 color printing, the AcuLaser C3800N can print at speeds ranging from up to 25ppm (mono) and 20ppm (colour). For clear control, the printer also has a large backlit LCD.
The printer has a capacity of 700 to 1250 sheets of paper and can handle print jobs of any size with the Epson MITech memory management. Its enhanced security features allows one to print even password protected PDF documents, while this compact and stylish printers is also one of the quietest in its category.

Targeting the estimated $44 billion small to mid-size business segment, Xerox Corp. has introduced a suite of seven new products, comprising three color printers, two color multifunction devices and two fax machines at prices starting at $499 and speeds from 5 pages to 42 pages per minute. The company is specifically targeting the SMB segment including medical clinics, law offices and independent real estate agents.
The newest products include:
• The Xerox Phaser 6360 has speeds of up to 42ppm in color and black and white and supports Xerox's CentreWare Web desktop management software. Pricing starts at $1,399.

• The Xerox Phaser 8560 color printer, based on the company’s patented solid ink technology, is cartridge free, thereby reducing wastage. It prints up to 30ppm with a first-page-out time as fast as 5seconds. The Phaser 8560 starts at $799. It is also available as a multifunction device - the Xerox Phaser 8560MFP, which adds copying, scanning and faxing, starting at $1,499.
• The Xerox Phaser 6115MFP is a $799 desktop MFP prints up to 5ppm color and 20ppm monochrome and offers 2400 dpi print quality.

• The Xerox Phaser 6180 color laser printer starts at $499 and runs at speeds up to 20 color ppm and 26ppm in black and white.