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Ricoh USA Inc. has launched a new lineup of color A3 multifunction peripheral (MFP) devices with an automatic single-pass document feeder (SPDF) that can accommodate many different media types. The Ricoh IM C3510SD, the Ricoh IM C4510SD, and the Ricoh IM 6010SD all feature the integrated straight-path scanner designed to bring together user’s print and scan needs on one device, making the experience even more straightforward.
Why the Integrated SPDF?
On traditional MFPs, more delicate or unique-sized media (such as ID cards) must be scanned on a platen, making it a time-consuming task that has the potential for misaligned output. Ricoh’s incorporation of a production-class straight path SPDF has attempted to subvert this issue by using PFU Paper Transport Technology to ensure that fragile or unique media types can go through the feeder. The device’s ability to detect irregularities and make skew adjustments—as can be done on a traditional single function scanner—helps to guarantee a high-quality output, which is something users will expect from the outset.
Ricoh has positioned this new feature as a time-saving function, aiming to appeal to the customer base that would usually opt for a higher-volume device that can handle mixed batches. “The Ricoh SD Series isn’t just an evolution—it’s a revolution in document management for the digital workplace with innovative scanning technology that redefines what business can expect from an MFP,” said Scott Dabice, Vice President of Commercial Strategy and Operations for Ricoh North America. “In today’s hybrid work environment, organizations need scanning solutions that are not only fast and reliable, but also adaptable.”
MFPs That Deliver More
In our recent hybrid working world, users demand speed, quality, and adaptability. The SD Series delivers with high-quality 1,200 x 1,200 dpi output; flexible finishing and paper tray options; as well as compatibility with cloud-based print management tools like RICOH CloudStream, Smart Integration, and Streamline NX. It’s a platform that grows with a business, supporting professional output and personalized workflows. With more data moving outside office walls, security is non-negotiable. The SD Series comes standard with Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 encryption, enhanced admin control, and Ricoh’s Always Current Technology for automatic security updates. Ricoh’s legacy of sustainability is deeply embedded in the SD Series, bringing features that help organizations achieve sustainability goals and saving costs from the use of 47% post-consumer recycled plastics and 100% recycled PET toner bottles to energy-saving features like toner that fuses at lower temperatures and an Advanced Sleep Mode that cuts energy use between jobs.
Keypoint Intelligence Opinion
By leveraging PFU’s expertise, Ricoh becomes the first to bring high-end scanning capabilities to the A3 MFP space. This is a rare moment where true hardware innovation breaks through and Ricoh’s launch highlights a brave move into a new area. By incorporating the SPDF into the traditional MFP, Ricoh hopes businesses can consolidate printing and scanning needs into one device that can handle multiple workflows in their digital transformation initiative. By removing reliance solely on the platen for MFP scanning, delicate/unique media can also be incorporated into the workflow without the need for a single function scanner on every occasion.
It will be interesting to see the reception to these devices from businesses: Will they be happy to incorporate their workflows into one device, particularly if something goes wrong and they lose productivity? If there is a demand for this type of device, other OEMs may follow suit and begin to develop their own integrated imaging technology for their MFP offering.
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