Large Format Copiers

Large format copiers are essential in many industries where it's common to deal with large or irregular documents that need to be copied or scanned. Traditional copiers work fine with standard paper sizes like letter and legal formats but, once a document reaches a size much bigger than 8 1/2 by 14 you're getting into the realm of the large format copier.

Typically designed as tabletop high machine with a top feed mechanism, these copiers allow the user to easily feed large documents past the printing and scanning heads to be saved to the attached computer and subsequently reprinted in as many copies as are needed. This intermediate step of saving to computer makes the software that operates the copier and which allows editing the document before reprinting especially important.

This specialty software ensures that color reproduction is accurate (a problem endemic with large format copiers), allows splicing together multiple scans of unusually large original documents, helps maximize paper usage, and allows saving popular settings if you're going to be scanning documents in several different wide formats.

The stand on which the copier sits is also removable which allows mixing and matching the copier with the stand, monitor, and computer on which it depends. One computer setup can also be linked to several copiers and/or scanners so a separate computer is not needed for every copier. However, not every stand accommodates every type of copier so be sure to check the model names and numbers of the particular copier you're shopping for to ensure compatibility.

Large format copiers are used extensively by banks and brokerages, architects, construction contractors, petroleum and chemical companies, and many governments. They're especially useful in cases where accurate color is needed - a place where typical blueprint printers and scanners can't serve as an adequate replacement.

Whatever your need you'll find several large format copiers from companies like Ricoh, HP, Xerox, and ColorTrac that will meet your needs. A little comparison shopping will make sure you find the best copier for your application at the best possible price.