Photocopying seems like an extremely simple task when you think about what you are doing; taking one thing and make one or more copies of it. It can, in fact, be difficult to know how to operate one properly, choosing the right paper and preparing the machine to the right settings. Providing you know what the right buttons are to use, the process can be made much simpler!
So, how do you make great photocopies?
1. Prepare the Originals
Once you have made the decision to copy something, you should do everything in your power to make sure the original copy is in good condition. Originals that are well looked after always make the best copies, so it’s a good idea to keep your original in tip top shape.
Where possible, you should try and print the originals on heavyweight paper from an inkjet or laser printer, to help maintain a fresh, high quality appearance.
If the original is folded or creased, try and remove these straight away. The copies won’t be as clear if you try and copy a folded or creased original. Any stapes or tape should also be removed as smooth paper feeds through the copy machine much better.
2. Clean the Machine
Before you start copying, take the time to wipe down the glass, removing any foreign objects or dirt that may have an impact on your copies. Glass cleaner should be used to clean the glass, before being dried with a lint free cloth.
To help keep the machine clean for the future, try and avoid touching the glass with your finger tips. You should also take care when using sticky notes as the sticky residue can attract dirt that may damage the machine or harm the original you are trying to copy.
3. Use Quality Copy Paper
You should firstly determine what weight of paper you would like to use. Standard weight is economical and works well with high-speed copiers. Mid weight paper can be used in copiers and inkjet or laser printers, is slightly heavier and is good for double-sided copies. Heavy weight paper has a smooth finish, but can cause copy machines to run slower. By printing the original on heavy weight paper, you can go a long way to improving the copy clarity.
4. Prepare the Copier
Here is a list of the steps you should take to prepare the machine:
- Press the start button to turn the machine on
- Stack your copy sheets on top of each other. Align them using two hands and check that there are no folded edges or sheets out of line.
- Place the blank sheets in the paper tray ready for copying.
- Choose the copy feature on the machine
- Adjust the contrast if you want to make text and images stand out from the background. This will make the copies clearer and easier to read.
- Select the lightness or darkness. Colour to black and white or photos will need to be lightened. Light text, colours or pencil drawings will need to be darkened to show up better.
- Run a test copy first. Where it asks you to select quantity select ‘1’ first. This way you can examine the result to check if you are happy with the quality.
If you aren’t happy with your test copy, you should take the time to adjust the settings in the machine to get the copy how you like it. One you are happy with the copy, you can input the quantity that you need. If something goes wrong with your copying, press the big red stop button to stop the copying and preserve your paper.
If you are having problems with your copy machine, you would like to have it serviced or you are thinking about getting a new photocopy machine, Nationwide Copiers is one of the leading choices for photocopier sales and servicing. Take the time to contact them if you need copy advice or assistance.