Our office equipment has the ability to copy (of course), print (really?), and scan (Hmmm… tell me more). With the latter function of our “multi-function” machines (MFP or MFD) however, it relies on the operating system of the computers connected to it to remain safely configured for the function to continue to operate properly.
Now, what do we mean by that? Well, when we set up a new MFD, we make sure the functions that you’re wanting are up and running. However, Microsoft (most predominantly used for our machines) tends to provide patches and updates to their Windows based operating systems, and those upgrades are potentially fatal to the scan function. I could venture to “Geekville” here, but suffice it to say, there are times when you could experience a sudden cease of function when you go to scan to a folder on your PC or Server, and after research, find out your computer just performed an update.
We typically suspect that a Windows update has gone out because we get a sudden rise in scanning issues. They are sometimes easy fixes, but sometimes we have to send a tech out to perform an upgrade to the firmware (internal software) of the equipment to fix this issue.
One of the most affected issues we have with machines is after a customer upgrade to Windows 8. If you had your equipment for any length of time, when you upgrade to Windows 8, even one computer that you expect to scan, you will almost certainly need a service call to your equipment. So, if you’re making plans to upgrade your computers or server to Windows 8 or Server 2012, call us ahead of time so we can get a firmware update installed on your equipment.
A note here as well, when it comes to adding a Mac computer to your arsenal. This will affect the print function mostly, and it will require the addition of a piece of Postscript software to your machine. There is a cost to this, so, again, plan ahead and give your salesperson, or our office, a call if you add a Mac computer.
As always though, don’t hesitate to call our office when you have an issue.