Summary

Chapter 14: Advanced Printers and Scanners 17memory a printer has, the more efficiently it works. The added memory helps with taskssuch as job buffering, page creation, improved photo printing, and graphics.Print job buffering is when a print job is captured into the internal printer memory.Buffering allows the computer to continue with other work instead of waiting for the printerto finish. Buffering is a common feature in laser printers and plotters, as well as inadvanced inkjet and dot matrix printers.Printers usually arrive from the factory with enough memory to handle jobs that involvetext. However, print jobs involving graphics, and especially photographs, run more efficientlyif the printer memory is adequate to store the entire job before it starts. If you receiveerrors that indicate the printer is “out of memory” or that there has been a “memory overload,”you might need more memory.Installing Printer MemoryThe first step in installing additional printer memory is to read the printer manual to determinethe following:■■Memory type: Physical type of memory, speed, and capacity; some are standard typesof memory, whereas others require special or proprietary memory.Memory population and availability: Number of memory upgrade slots in use, andhow many are available; this can require opening a compartment to check RAM.Printer manufacturers have set procedures for upgrading memory, including the followingtasks:■■■■Removing covers to access the memory areaInstalling or removing memoryInitializing the printer to recognize the new memoryInstalling updated drivers if neededAdditional Printer UpgradesSome additional printer upgrades include the following:■■■■■Duplex printing to enable dual-sided printingExtra trays to hold more paperSpecialized tray types for different mediaNetwork cards to access a wired or wireless networkFirmware upgrades to add functionality or to fix bugsFollow the instructions included with the printer when you install or upgrade components.Contact the manufacturer or an authorized service technician for additional information if