Copier Lingo: Raster Image Processor

Raster Image Processor (RIP)
Used to attach a copier to a computer network, a RIP converts color files into printing instructions for the copier. Also known as a color server or a print controller.

Multifunction Printers (MFP)

Digital copiers use modules to combine the functions of copiers, network printers, scanners, fax machines, and even e-mail devices into a single piece of equipment. Multifunction Printers (MFP) are available for businesses of all sizes -- from home offices to large enterprises. The cost, output quality, and other included features vary greatly from model to model, but generally they all perform the same functions -- Print, Scan, Fax, and Photocopy. You'll find that copiers for the commercial/enterprise markets utilize laser printing technology while in the personal/small business area, ink-jet printer technology is more widely used. While they may cost less ink-jet printers don't typically deliver the performance and color saturation demanded by larger businesses. That's rapidly changing though. Enterprise copiers using ink-jet technology have recently been introduced and are gaining some acceptance.

Copier Lingo: Color Server

Color Server
Used to attach a color copier to a computer network, a color server converts color files into printing instructions for the copier. Also known as a raster image processor (RIP) or a print controller.