What follows is my view. Not everyone would agree.
I do not think you will be able to get everything you want in one
product unless certain compromises are acceptable for your use.
There are a large number of products that are all-in-one with fax,
scanner, printer and copier (a combination of the scan and print)
functions. Some of these are based on ink-jet printing technology while
others use xerography ("laser") for printing. Of these, the
xerography-based give the highest quality print-outs and copies.
However, ink-jet models can give very good results. Laser-based
solutions bring higher purchase prices; however, if you take the cost of
supplies into account, such machines might be cheaper to operate in your
usage environment and so justify the higher initial cost.
My main concern with your described needs is the 3-D copying. And how
large a book would you want to copy? Large-bed machines are more
expensive.
True 3D copiers are not available in all-in-ones. And they are quite
expensive; their prices start at about $30,000, zip through $25000 USD
and race far beyond.
It is possible that the scanner in an all-in-one will suffice. The only
way to tell is to try one. e.g. For insurance future proof-of-loss
purposes, a camera would be better whether a digital or a film camera (+
scanner).
3d scanners:
http://vr.isdale.com/3DScanners/3DScannerCompanies.html
For archive-quality ink, you will have to pay particular attention to
the specifications. Certain Epson printers have available DuraBrite ink
cartridges, specifically. For such use, also be sure to use the correct
low-acid paper for printing.
There are a wide variety of models to check. To optimize the printing,
scanner, copier function you might have to get the fax function as a
separate fax/modem card. (If you are on cable or ADSL or other broadband
internet connection, the modem part can be ignored but there are no
just-fax cards.)
Just as a starting point, have a look at the HP, Canon and Epson web
pages.
http://h10010.www1.hp.com/wwpc/us/en/ho/WF02a/18972-238444-410635.html
http://consumer.usa.canon.com/ir/controller?act=ProductCatIndexAct&fcategoryid=105
http://www.epson.com/cgi-bin/Store/ProductCategory.jsp?BV_UseBVCookie=yes&oid=-8182
To answer your question more explicitly, for low volume use, I would get
a HP Photosmart (unit with scanner, primer, copier plus card reader).
For fax, a fax/modem card. It would provide very good quality and cost
effective in my view. Note: this is not a large-bed unit so copying of
large book pages cannot be done in one pass.
Good luck.
Tom
MSMVP-DTS
:I have a Dell Inspirion 8300 and am computer "challenged".
: I need to get : ink-jet printer using Dura Brite inks, scanner ( that
can
: scan 3-D jewelry and also pages out of large books), copier, fax (
direct to
: computer.....I), a media slot for the Sony CYbershot photo card....
: If you could have anything you wanted, which unit or combination of
units
: would you get. Then, what unit or combo of units would you get if you
had a
: budget of about$500-600?? maximum???
: ( Someone suggested the Epson CX6400, but will the be able to fax,
also... -
: using my computer?? ).
: I am so confused and really need some help...I appreciate all of your
help
: ..and look forward to hearing from..somebody....
: --
: Thank you ,,,,, Rickie Beth
