Multifunctional

A multifuctional, all-in-one, or MFP (Multi Function Product or Printer) is an office machine that includes :

• Printer
• Scanner
• Copier[?]
• (often) fax

It can work both as a computer peripheral (using a computer port, like USB, FireWire, WiFi... ) and autonomously (with the computer turned off; for example, to copy, fax and so on).

Multifunctionals without built-in fax capacity can often be upgraded to include it by attaching a modem, perhaps via an interface (i.e. USB).

Most MFPs are inkjet-based and thus allow colour printing and copying, but a small number of relatively expensive ones use a laser print engine for high-quality, low cost-per-page output.

Early models (in the 1990s) developed a poor reputation for compatibility and reliability, which is only gradually disappearing. Most current MPFs cost around the same as a good quality inkjet printer and a scanner, but cannot offer the same print quality, compatibility, and flexibility, and incurr a higher cost of ownership (as a failure in any of the individual sub-systems requires that the entire unit be replaced). They do, however, take up less room than the equivalent separate components, can be used autonomously ( with the computer turned off) and are popular for that reason.