MFP Copier Blog

Lead for 90 Plus Copiers

Art Post · 11/7/248:51 PM

see attached zip file

Evaluating the Total Cost of Ownership for Plotters in SMB Businesses: HP vs. KIP

Art Post · 11/7/249:30 AM

When investing in plotters for small business use, evaluating the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) is crucial for making an informed decision that ensures long-term value. TCO goes beyond the initial purchase price and includes expenses associated with maintenance, consumables, downtime, energy consumption, and depreciation. In the world of wide-format printing, brands like HP and KIP stand out, particularly in small-to-medium business settings. Let’s dive into the factors that influence TCO and see how HP and KIP plotters measure up.

1. Initial Purchase Price and Leasing Options

The upfront cost of acquiring a plotter can vary significantly based on features, speed, and print quality. HP and KIP both offer models with a range of capabilities suited for small businesses.

HP Plotters: Known for their versatility, HP plotters, particularly the DesignJet series, cater to businesses seeking high-quality prints with fine detail. Their prices often range from a few thousand dollars for basic models to over $10,000 for advanced options. HP also offers leasing programs that spread costs over time, which can be appealing for budget-conscious businesses.
KIP Plotters: KIP models, like the KIP C700 series, are designed for high-volume, toner-based printing. They tend to have a higher upfront cost but are known for durability and speed, often better suited for environments with heavy print demands. Leasing is also available for KIP devices, providing flexible payment options that can make them more accessible.

2. Consumable Costs: Ink vs. Toner

One of the most significant contributors to TCO in wide-format printing is the cost of consumables. HP and KIP take different approaches, with HP utilizing inkjet technology and KIP using toner-based systems.

HP Ink Costs: HP plotters generally require ink cartridges, which can be expensive over time. Although inkjet technology excels in color vibrancy and fine detail, ink costs can add up quickly, especially if printing in high volume.
KIP Toner Costs: KIP’s toner-based plotters are typically more cost-effective per page than inkjet options. Toner cartridges generally yield more pages than ink and are less prone to issues like clogging, which can interrupt print jobs. For businesses printing mostly black-and-white documents or with heavy daily use, KIP’s toner approach can be a more economical choice.

3. Maintenance and Service Requirements

Maintenance is another essential part of TCO, as plotters are complex machines that require regular servicing to avoid costly downtime. HP and KIP differ in their maintenance needs due to their respective print technologies.

HP Maintenance: Inkjet plotters require periodic cleaning of print heads to maintain print quality. For businesses with moderate print volumes, HP plotters can perform well with minimal downtime. HP also offers service contracts that cover routine maintenance, which can simplify cost planning and help avoid unexpected repair expenses.
KIP Maintenance: KIP’s toner-based devices are generally more robust and require less frequent servicing. They are engineered for high-demand environments, so small businesses with significant printing needs may find KIP plotters to be a better long-term investment. Additionally, KIP’s service contracts tend to cover both preventative maintenance and major repairs, making them ideal for reducing unexpected costs.

4. Energy Consumption

Energy efficiency is often overlooked in TCO evaluations, yet it directly impacts operational expenses. Both HP and KIP have introduced energy-saving features, but there are some differences to consider.

HP Energy Efficiency: HP plotters are designed with energy-saving features that automatically power down when not in use. For small businesses with intermittent print needs, this can significantly reduce electricity costs over time.
KIP Energy Consumption: KIP plotters, while often more powerful, tend to use more energy due to their high-output design. However, newer models in the KIP lineup come with energy-efficient settings that reduce power consumption during idle times. For small businesses with high daily output, the slightly higher energy usage may be justified by the productivity gains.

5. Depreciation and Resale Value

Depreciation affects TCO, as a plotter’s resale value can offset some of the initial investment. HP and KIP devices retain value differently based on market demand and durability.

HP Resale Value: HP DesignJet plotters generally hold their value well, particularly models geared toward high-quality color output. The resale market for HP is strong, so businesses can often recover a fair amount of their initial investment when upgrading.
KIP Resale Value: KIP devices are more specialized and often cater to niche markets, meaning resale opportunities might be more limited. However, their durability and reputation in high-demand environments help retain value. KIP plotters often appeal to buyers needing robust machines, so they hold resale value better in heavy-use industries.

6. Calculating TCO Based on Use Case

Ultimately, calculating TCO requires factoring in a business’s specific printing needs. Here’s a simplified example for each:

Calculated TCO Based on Use Case

When calculating TCO for small businesses with specific print needs, understanding costs per square foot is essential. Let’s assume a monthly print volume of 1,500 square feet in black and 1,500 square feet in color for both HP and KIP plotters.

HP Plotter Example: With HP’s average cost per square foot at $0.10 for black and $0.22 for color, monthly costs for consumables would be $150 for black and $330 for color, totaling $480. Over a year, consumable costs alone reach $5,760, not including maintenance or energy, making HP a solid choice for businesses needing vibrant color and fine detail.
KIP Plotter Example: KIP plotters offer much lower costs per square foot, at $0.007 for black and $0.028 for color. This means monthly costs for 1,500 square feet each of black and color printing would be $10.50 for black and $42 for color, totaling $52.50 monthly. Annually, this amounts to just $630, a notable savings compared to HP. For businesses with high black-and-white volume needs, KIP provides a cost-effective solution.

This breakdown highlights how TCO can vary significantly depending on print technology and business requirements, making it important for small businesses to align their choice with both budget and output needs.

Summary

Evaluating TCO for plotters means looking beyond the purchase price to understand the full range of ongoing costs. HP and KIP offer solid options tailored to different printing environments, each with advantages depending on print volume, quality requirements, and cost management. For small businesses, making the right choice means assessing your specific needs to find a plotter that balances quality, efficiency, and total ownership costs.

Feel free to reach out to me if you need help apost@p4photel. Also visit our other Jersey Plotter blogs here. You can also visit my Linkedin page to know more about me and the service I offer.

Memoirs of a Copier Sales Person

Little Story About a Salesman Named Jed

Art Post · 11/7/249:30 AM

It’s late, and I’m going through this quickly, so please bear with me. I had an existing account that was shared with a Direct Branch. The Direct Branch held the majority of the placements, while we had three units in a satellite office. One of those placements was a 135-page-per-minute production system.

I had maintained a good relationship with the manager for eight years and had been in touch with him about the lease's end.

My contact mentioned that Direct would also be quoting a new production system, as they had a color unit at the same location. I knew my chances of retaining the account were slim, but I put my best foot forward, submitting a highly competitive proposal five months before the term ended (as did my competitor).

After hearing nothing for quite some time, I followed up with my contact. He told me that Jed in IT was now making all the decisions. He hadn’t heard anything either and suggested I reach out to Jed. He gave me his contact information, and off I went.

I left my first message, noting that we’d submitted a quote and needed to follow up on the end-of-term obligations for the existing system and get an idea of where we stood with the new lease. A week passed, and nothing—so I called again, leaving a similar message. Again, no response. This continued, with the same message each time, but no callbacks. All in all, I left at least seven messages for Jed. I got nothing! Typical, I thought.

About a month later, I had a dream that I’d lost the deal. Lo and behold, the next day, I received notification from our service dispatch that “my guy” had called about removing the system. I thought, “That SOB has my number and couldn’t call me directly?” Then I realized he probably didn’t want to speak to me directly because I’d ask, “What happened?”

The next day—WTF—I get a call from Jed, the IT guy. He’s asking me for a copy of the cost-per-page lease and wants to see if we can remove the equipment. I replied that I’d be more than happy to comply, but he’d need to call the leasing company and arrange it with them. I then asked, “Why did you go with the other company?” He said it was a pricing decision. I could live with that. Then I asked, “But why didn’t you return any of my calls?” His answer: “I’m not obligated to call anyone back.” I lost it! I said, “We’re an existing vendor, and we wanted to inform you of your end-of-lease obligations, and you’re telling me you’re not obligated to return calls?” He continued, saying he doesn’t check his phone because they’re all sales calls, but he does check emails. I thought, “You rotten $#%!” I called this facility many times and couldn’t even reach a person to pick up the damn phone, let alone obtain or request an email address.

In hindsight, I probably should have asked my guy for Jed’s email address. But who knew this person felt they weren’t obligated to call back an existing vendor?

The moral of the story? They entered into a new contract, and since they didn’t call me, their cost-per-page lease rolled over for another year—with some 2.5 million pages attached! I’d love to be a fly on the wall for that conversation when they realize they’re now paying for two production systems for at least a year! But who knows—maybe they’ll keep it forever, as their ineptness will likely prevent them from notifying the leasing company when the renewal comes due again!

-=Good Selling=-

Leads

Lead for Color Wide Format MFP

Art Post · 11/6/248:59 PM

see attached

Leads

Lead for Fleet of Copiers

Art Post · 11/6/248:56 PM

see attached files

Leads

Lead for ManagedIT Services

Art Post · 11/6/248:52 PM

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Leads

Lead for IT Services (unlimited hours of support to maintain a healthy IT environment)

Art Post · 11/6/248:49 PM

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Dx Notes

Digital Transformation (DX) Notes for the Week

Art Post · 11/6/248:37 PM

First week of November 2024

Embrace Tomorrow Today

Birthday Polek & Polek

If Today Is Your Birthday with Chris Polek "Will Rogers"

Art Post · 11/5/249:30 AM

Hacked

Today's Hacked!

Art Post · 11/4/249:29 PM

11/4/2024

Recent Hacking Incidents and Cybersecurity Concerns

How Sky ECC encryption hack snared MSC Gayane cocaine 'coordinator' -

The U.S. accuses Goran Gogic, a Montenegrin national, of being the logistics coordinator in a large cocaine smuggling operation.
Operation involved encrypted communications via Sky ECC, which authorities successfully hacked.
MSC Gayane was one of the key vessels used to transport drugs, with massive quantities hidden in shipping containers.
Hack represents a significant blow to international drug cartels relying on encrypted communication tools.

Inside the Massive Crime Industry That's Hacking Billion-Dollar Companies

Hackers target billion-dollar companies, often leveraging malware hidden in pirated software.
Once infiltrated, they deploy complex hacking techniques to steal sensitive data and financial information.
Hhacking operations are increasingly sophisticated, requiring global cooperation to counteract.
Infostealer malware is a common tool in this industry, emphasizing the risks of using unauthorized software.

Sophos exposes deep hacking networks in China - Asia Tech Review

Cybersecurity firm Sophos has identified extensive hacking networks operating within China.
Investigation revealed connections between hackers, academic institutions, and government entities.
These networks are reportedly involved in various cyber-espionage activities targeting international entities.
Sophos’ findings highlight the importance of vigilance against state-supported hacking.

Why your vote can't be "hacked," with Cait Conley of CISA (Lock and Code S05E23) - Malwarebytes

Cait Conley from CISA explains how the U.S. ensures election security to prevent hacking.
Voting systems are designed with multiple safeguards to prevent unauthorized access.
Conley debunks myths about vote-counting machine vulnerabilities.
CISA’s role is critical in building public trust in election integrity through transparency.

Wiz Khalifa's X account apparently hacked to promote sham memecoin

Wiz Khalifa's X (formerly Twitter) account was reportedly hacked on November 3, leading to posts promoting a fraudulent memecoin.
The posts aimed to deceive Khalifa’s 35.7 million followers into investing in the sham coin.
This incident highlights the ongoing issue of high-profile account hacks for promoting scams.
Followers are urged to remain vigilant about suspicious posts from verified accounts.

Experts warn some ChatGPT models can be hacked to launch deepfake scams

Cybersecurity experts reveal that some ChatGPT models may be susceptible to hacking for deepfake scams.
Attackers could manipulate the AI to generate misleading or harmful content.
These vulnerabilities present a significant risk for social engineering and misinformation.
TechRadar advises caution and verification when engaging with AI-generated content.

Kerala IAS officer allegedly creates WhatsApp group for Hindus, later claims phone hacked

Kerala IAS officer K Gopalakrishnan reportedly formed a WhatsApp group for Hindu officers but later claimed his phone was hacked.
The officer is the director of industries and commerce in Kerala.
This controversy has attracted attention, with the police now involved in an investigation.
The incident raises concerns about privacy and the potential misuse of personal devices.

Nearly 500K people affected by Columbus city hack

Columbus, Ohio, suffered a ransomware attack affecting around 500,000 people.
Sensitive data of city residents may have been compromised in the breach.
City officials are working to address the impact and improve cybersecurity measures.
Those affected are encouraged to monitor their accounts for any suspicious activity.

-=Stay Safe=-

Leads

Lead for 100 Plus Copiers

Art Post · 11/4/249:00 PM

See attached file

Leads

Lead for ManagedIT Services

Art Post · 11/4/248:56 PM

see attached file

Leads

Lead for 85 Copiers

Art Post · 11/4/248:52 PM

see attached files

MSP & MSSP & IT Industry Notes

MSP & MSSP & IT Industry Notes for 11/3/2024

Art Post · 11/4/249:30 AM

Arcoa Group

Why partnering with ARCOA makes sense
Electronics Recycling is an important and profitable part of the IT asset lifecycle, but it can be overwhelming with all you already do, varying state regulations, and the limited resources at hand. That’s where ARCOA comes in. When you partner with ARCOA, you get all the benefits of a big company without any of the capital investment. We’ve been doing this since 1989 and have the expertise, certifications, and nationwide resources to get the most for all your clients’ retired IT assets. Plus, positioning your clients as environmental stewards not only elevates their appeal to consumers, it meets government requirements and avoids fines.

What partnering with ARCOA looks like
Our role is to make it easy for you to bring more value to your clients. We work with you to help stretch your clients’ IT budget by reducing the total cost of ownership of their electronics. We’re experts at identifying and implementing the solutions your clients need for the end-of-use re-marketing, recovery, and recycling of their technology assets. The sooner you involve ARCOA, the sooner you and your client.

Cognizant Partners With Alnylam To Scale IT Operations And Accelerate Capabilities

Cognizant will manage Alnylam’s IT infrastructure, including cloud, security, applications, and analytics, aiming to streamline global operations and drive innovation.
leverages Cognizant’s managed services to reduce operational demands through automation, fostering greater efficiency and transparency.
brings industry expertise to aid Alnylam in its mission to advance RNA-based therapeutics, improving patient outcomes and scaling operations more effectively.
aligns with Cognizant’s broader push in AI and data analytics, essential in supporting Alnylam’s goals to accelerate its tech capabilities and advance novel medicines into the market.

Crexendo's Codefest Draws Record Participation with AI at the Core of Innovation

Event saw the highest-ever entries, with 16 projects focused on AI for cloud communication
New tools enhanced contact centers through automation and personalization
Germany’s CCT and the U.S.'s Netlink Voice won for enhancing the NetSapiens platform.
Top projects will launch on the NetSapiens Marketplace to expand offerings for partners

WidePoint's Subsidiary IT Authorities Awarded More than $1.7 Million in Cisco and ...

IT Authorities, subsidiary of WidePoint, has been awarded contracts exceeding $1.7 million, including significant Cisco deals.
Contracts will enable IT Authorities to expand its managed IT services and cybersecurity offerings.
New contracts reinforce IT Authorities' role as a trusted provider for critical IT solutions.
Funding used to integrate advanced Cisco technology, benefiting clients with improved performance and security.

Keypoint Intelligence Announces German Sacristan's Keynote at FuturePrint TECH Event

German Sacristan from Keypoint Intelligence will present a keynote at the FuturePrint TECH Event
Keynote will address key trends and challenges in print and digital transformation.
Sacristan will explore cutting-edge advancements in print technology and their implications for the future
Attendees have the chance to connect with industry professionals and thought leaders.

Latest AIIM OnAir podcast featuring TWAIN Working Group

podcast features in-depth discussions with TWAIN Working Group on current industry trends in imaging and document processing.
Highlights the role of TWAIN standards in improving interoperability and efficiency in document scanning.
Explores how the TWAIN Working Group is adapting to emerging technologies and AI integration.
Discusses new initiatives to simplify scanning processes and enhance user experience.
TWAIN Working Group shares insights on the future direction of document management and imaging standards.

Japanese Chip Packaging Giant Kyocera Launches $100 Million Startup Funds -

Kyocera’s two funds, KVF-I and KVIF-I, target startups in the U.S., EMEA, Japan, and Asia
Investments focus on environmental tech, IT, healthcare, mobility, and AI
Funding ranges from $200,000 to $2 million in early-stage rounds, with Kyocera taking less than 20% equity
Fund supports Kyocera’s strategy to grow by investing in transformative technologies

Pulse Technology Hosts Sharp USA Officials at Schaumburg Facility

Pulse Technology welcomed officials from Sharp USA to its Schaumburg facility.
Visit reinforced the strong partnership between Pulse Technology and Sharp USA.
Pulse Technology showcased latest solutions and technologies to Sharp’s representatives.
Teams engaged in discussions focused on future collaborations and growth opportunities.

New era of Secure Print with Microsoft

Microsoft introduces advanced secure printing features, prioritizing data protection.
Leveraging Microsoft's cloud platform, the new secure print options streamline print management and access.
Strong user authentication measures ensure only authorized individuals can release and access print jobs
Secure print solutions aim to improve workflow efficiency and reduce potential security risks in document handling.

Lock in on Cyber Security with ARCOA

IT Asset Disposition (ITAD): Manages the secure disposition of end-of-life IT equipment
Data Destruction: Ensures sensitive data is completely erased from devices before disposal
Asset Remarketing: Resells refurbished IT assets to maximize value recovery
Recycling Services: Provides environmentally responsible recycling of electronics

Featured speaker, Brian Stout with iVALT - TWAIN Direct Developers Day

Brian Stout from iVALT will be a highlighted speaker at the TWAIN Direct Developers Day event.
Stout brings extensive knowledge in digital imaging and document management technology.
Presentation will cover advancements in TWAIN Direct, streamlining communication between devices and applications.
Attendees can expect insights into the latest innovations and practical applications of TWAIN technology.
iVALT’s involvement underscores its dedication to advancing secure, efficient digital imaging solutions.

How Blockchain Technology Is Improving Black Friday Shopping Security

Blockchain’s decentralized structure provides secure, tamper-proof transaction records, protecting shoppers’ data.
Verifying each transaction across a network, blockchain helps reduce fraudulent activities in online shopping.
Blockchain enables greater transparency in the supply chain, allowing shoppers to verify product authenticity.
Retailers can use blockchain for secure, efficient loyalty rewards, ensuring accurate tracking and redemption.
Added layer of security provided by blockchain increases shoppers' trust during high-traffic events like Black Friday.

AHEAD Achieves Zscaler MSSP Authorization, Launches Managed Access Services

Received Zscaler’s MSSP authorization, enhancing its cybersecurity offerings.
Introduces Managed Access Services to provide clients with secure, streamlined network access.
Partnership with Zscaler strengthens AHEAD's ability to protect clients from evolving cyber threats.
Services incorporate Zero Trust principles, ensuring secure access across distributed environments.

Vaco Announces Key Leadership Appointments to Drive Strategic Growth

Vaco make significant leadership appointments aimed at enhancing its growth strategy.
New leaders are expected to drive initiatives that promote strategic growth across the organization.
Appointees bring extensive industry experience, positioning Vaco to capitalize on emerging market opportunities.
Michael Splittorf has been named President of Managed Services
Steve Kass has been promoted to Chief Operating Office

West Virginia Managed IT Services Provider Now Offering IAM Solutions

Launching Identity and Access Management solutions to enhance cybersecurity.
Aimed at improving security for local businesses facing rising threats.
Helping organizations manage user identities and access rights effectively.

Square 9 Earns 2025 Buyer’s Choice Award From TrustRadius

Received the 2025 Buyer’s Choice Award from TrustRadius for its outstanding software offerings.
Award reflects Square 9's dedication to delivering high-quality document management solutions that meet customer needs.
TrustRadius awards are based on real customer reviews, emphasizing Square 9’s strong reputation among users.
Recognition positions Square 9 as a leader in the document management sector, showcasing its innovative approach.

Kaseya Continues Driving MSP Profitability and Efficiency with Launch of Kaseya 365 User ..

Solution offers a suite of tools designed for streamlined management of IT services.
Kaseya 365 integrates various IT management functions into a single platform, allowing for seamless oversight of multiple services.
solution includes powerful automation tools to streamline repetitive tasks, reducing manual effort and increasing efficiency.
- centralized dashboard that provides real-time insights and analytics, making it easier to monitor performance and manage resources.
- platform designed with user experience in mind, ensuring that it is intuitive and easy to navigate for all team members.
- Advanced security protocols and features to protect user data and maintain compliance with industry standards.

Memoirs of a Copier Sales Person

Selling Copiers & MFP's "Running With the Big Dogs" II

Art Post · 11/4/249:30 AM

What's the Golden Rule when selling office equipment? Know your competition or least what they are quoting.

Ever notice every time you walk your dog that he or she stops at every tree, telephone pole and fire hydrant, ever wonder what they're doing?

They're checking out the competition. Who's who, whose doing what, who was here and where ya been! Amazing that dogs can find all of that out in a few whiffs .

As sales people need to know the competition as well, what they're up to, what's their current maintenance pricing, leasing rates (did you know you can figure out the lease rate by backing out the payment), special promo's, or just how they are positioning themselves with the client. I just had a quote given to me a few days ago and there was some good value statements from a competitor that I'll change it up a bit and use for my quotes and proposals. Thus being able to read the quotes and proposals from the competition you may be able to tweak your proposal and borrow from others!

Here's some threads I've uploaded to the P4PHotel Message Boards, click the links and you'll be brought to the page.

FileCompetitive Copier Proposals & Bids