In the digital age, it was believed that the widespread availability of computers and software technology would see a decline in printing. However, in 2019, the paper is still a vital part of daily business practices, and a high-quality printer continues to be considered an office necessity. With that said, although many businesses are still investing in their printing technology, many are still unaware of the options available to them when it comes to using it.
So, to help you boost your printing prowess, let’s take a look at a few ways that you can get the most out of your printer.
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The Printing Partnership
While it may seem as if all printing accessories and cartridges are created equal, you would likely be surprised by how much of a difference your choice of ink makes. When purchasing printer cartridges online, make sure that you’re taking your printer’s model and maker into consideration. If you’re wondering why this matters, it all comes down to the manufacturer.
Naturally, when an ink cartridge manufacturer develops products for its printers, it is going to develop them in line with what is most optimal for their existing products. Therefore, when Brother releases a new printer, you are inevitably going to get the best performance from using Brother printer cartridges that have been specifically tailored to their printers. Although generic cartridges may come at a lower price point, you really do get what you pay for, and will likely end up spending more in the long run.
So, now that we’re done with our ink insights, what else can be done to boost your printing productivity?
Cleaning is Caring, But Be Wary
How many times have you thought about the cleanliness of your printing setup? If you’re like most people, that question is going to be met with a long, drawn-out pause. We rarely think about the impact that dust and debris can have on our electronic devices, but there are a lot of benefits that come with being a clean freak with your hardware. There are many kits and products to clean your printer.
As a solid starting point, try to ensure that your printer is covered when not in use. This will prevent dust, dirt, and other particles from entering the machine and accumulating on print rollers.
When cleaning your printer, make sure to avoid using compressed air or ammonia. Compressed air can make the problem of a dirty printer worse by pushing dirt and particles further into the machine. Ammonia, on the other hand, is known to damage some forms of plastic. Over a long period of time, both of these cleaning methods can degrade your machine and lead to poor performance. Instead, opt for ammonia-free cleaning products, and use a soft rag or towel to wipe away surface dust.
Click here for more printer cleaning tips and tricks!
Pick Your Paper
With most of the printing discussion revolving around the inks and printers themselves, people often neglect the material they’re printing on. Paper choices will have an enormous impact on the finished product of your prints. So, if you’re looking to spice up your printouts, make sure you pick the best paper for the job.
Things to consider when choosing a paper include:
- The brighter white paper is the go-to choice for pictures, as the imagery doesn’t have the color of your paper to contend with.
- Mid-weight paper is more durable and thick than the standard stock, and will, therefore, be perfect for double-sided printing.
- Poster paper will always be a fantastic go-to choice for posters and anything else that requires vivid, eye-catching colors.
These may seem like simple distinctions, but they can be the difference between high and low-quality printing. Each utility will have a different ideal paper type, so make sure to do your research.
Optimizing your printer setup is not a big task, but it’s one that comes with a lot of benefits. Whether you’re a photographer looking to show off your artistry or a marketing manager hoping to wow clients with their proposals, hopefully, these tips are helpful. Good luck!