What is Multifunction Peripheral?

A Multifunction Peripheral is a device that can combine the functionalities of multiple different peripherals into a single unit. However, the integration of multiple peripheral functionalities into one permits the users to do cost reduction, workflow streamlining, and reduce storage space and can perform vital tasks with the help of a single peripheral unit and support printing, scanning, faxing, and so on.

In this article, we will learn all about the concept of multifunction peripherals and their definition, the difference between MFP and a traditional printer, primary technology, key terms, practical examples, pros and cons, and real-life applications.

Multifunction Peripherals or MFPs are devices or units that combine the functionalities of separate peripheral devices (printer, scanner, fax, copier) into a single unit and are henceforth often termed multi-functional (MFD) devices or all-in-one printers. Multifunction peripherals are controlled by making use of software and applications to manage and control the MFP’s various functions.

MFPs support advanced digital imaging and processing techniques such as image enhancement(noise reduction, color correction), optical character recognition(image to editable text files), optimization, and compression(file size reduction without any quality degradation) to provide enhanced productivity, high quality and versatile functionality for both personal and professionals.

MFPs are built to support streamlined document processing and management designed and improve the efficiency of workflow by keeping all the essential and required utilities and functions under a single roof.

• Duplex Printing: MFPs support Double or duplex printing reduce the printing cost significantly and save paper as well.
• Automatic Document Feeder or ADF: MFPs support Automatic Document Feeder and do automatic feeding of multiple pages into the scanner for scanning and copying in an effective and efficient manner that automatically feeds multiple pages into the scanner.
• Networking: MFPs also support device access by multiple users from different locations simultaneously as through built-in network connectivity and interfaces.
• Mobile Printing: Some MFPs do support mobile printing( printing using a smartphone and tablet).

• MFPs (with scanning, and printing) can be used for basic and document processing needs for small organizations and offices.
• MFPs can be used by large and multinational organizations for document storage, and workflow management (streamlined document processing).
• MFPs (with scanning and copying) can be used to digitize school students’ project works and to create and keep digital copies of the same.
• MFPs(with wireless connectivity and mobile printing) can be used by individual and home users for photo and document printing from their smartphones or tablets.

Let’s assume a medium-sized and multinational company ABC Corporation’s MFPs implementation and usage, ABC Corporation purchased and incorporated MFPs for each department and did an official upgrade by replacing individual printers, faxes, scanners, and so on.

Employees can do multiple tasks using a single device and automatic document feeding with streamlined document processing indeed increased productivity and reduced time management as was with different machines and a significant impact was observed for the company with immediate improvement in efficiency and cost savings.

• Time-saving and Cost-effective: MFPs are very useful cost-effective and time-saving as we can perform multiple tasks with a single device along with streamlined and network connectivity and increases productivity as well.
• Convenience: MFPs are very easily controlled and used by application software on a single machine and can handle various document processing tasks and needs.
• Environmental Impact: MFPs play a significant role in safeguarding the natural environment and can reduce the wastage of paper and consumption of energy as compared to multiple standalone devices.

• Single Point of Failure: However, MFPs can cause disruption and inconvenience whenever any malfunctions, happen and may affect the same and sometimes also can impact the productivity as well.
• Technical issues: As MFPs support multiple peripherals into a single unit and work simultaneously software glitches or paper jamming may arise and similar technical issues cause discontinuity and delay in services and other activities.
• Initial cost: MFPs’ initial purchase costs are very costly and expensive and require some extra expenses with training-related arrangements and adjustments also for a seamless and better experience.

Multifunction Peripherals (MFPs) can provide a simple and convenient experience as with multiple document processing support and processing. MFPs support advanced image processing compression and optimization techniques and can be beneficial for carrying out tasks such as high quality and enhanced image scanning, making quick digital record keeping and copying, and many more.

Can MFPs be easily set up and used?

MFPs are built for ease and convenience for individual and professional purposes and are compatible with most of the OS and devices and ensure the seamless and effective work flow into different environments. Sometimes manufacturers also provide installation guide with detailed instructions for ease and convenience.

How to connect the MFP to any computer?

MFPs can be used with the computer and other devices by using the USB and Ethernet cables for network, printing, and support wireless connections as well.

How to maintain an MFP?

MFP maintenance are very essential for it’s smooth functioning and longevity. We need to do MFPs regular maintenance by performing software update, cleaning and ink or toner cartridge replacement.