Summary

Chapter 7: Fundamental Printers and Scanners 35SummaryThis chapter discussed various types of printers and scanners. You learned that there aremany different types and sizes of printers and scanners, each with different capabilities,speeds, and uses. You also learned that both printers and scanners can be connected directlyto computers, as well as shared across a network. This chapter also introduced the differenttypes of cables and interfaces available to connect a printer or scanner. Other facts aboutprinters and scanners covered in this chapter include the following:■■■■■■■■■■Some printers and scanners have low output and are adequate for home use, whereasother printers and scanners have high output and are designed for commercial use.Printers may have different speeds and quality of print.Older printers and scanners use parallel cables and ports. Newer printers and scannerstypically use USB or FireWire cables and connectors.Larger printers and scanners may also have a NIC port to connect to a network.Newer printers and scanners are plug-and-play. The computer automatically installs thenecessary drivers.If the computer does not automatically install the device drivers, you have to supply thedrivers on a CD or download them from the manufacturer’s website.Most optimization is done through software drivers and utilities.After you have set up the printer or scanner, you can share the device with other userson the network. This arrangement is cost-efficient because there is no need for everyuser to have a printer or scanner.A good preventive maintenance program will extend the life of printers and scannersand keep them performing well.Troubleshooting printer and laptop problems requires the technician to identify, repair,and document the problem. Troubleshooting steps include gathering data from customer,verifying the obvious issues, trying quick solutions first, gathering data from thecomputer, evaluating the problem, implementing the solution, and closing with the customer.Summary of ExercisesThis is a summary of the Labs, Worksheets, Remote Technician exercises, ClassDiscussions, Virtual Desktop activities, and Virtual Laptop activities associated with thischapter.LabsThe following labs cover material from this chapter. Refer to the labs in IT Essentials: PCHardware and Software Labs and Study Guide, Third Edition:Lab 7.4.2: Install All-in-One Device and Software