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A digital printing device that scans an original document and reproduces it, allowing the output of one or many copies of the original. A digital copier can be described as a scanner and a printer contained within the same device. A digital copier scans the document only once, recording the data as a digital record, which is stored in the memory of the device. From this digital record, the document can be output as many times as required. The content of the print output does not change until the digital file is edited or a different item is placed in the scanning portion of the device. This differs from a conventional copier in which the original document must be rescanned for every copy that is produced. Outputting many copies can be a slow process. Usually the only way to manipulate the original image when using a conventional copier is through magnification or reduction. Continuous tone images, (photographs), do not copy well. Since the scanned image in a digital copier is saved as digital data, it can be edited in any manner that is required before it is output. The file can also be saved for future printings that are exactly the same as the first printing. Digital copiers use the electrophotographic process and dry toner technology for output. A digital copier has fewer moving parts and will last much longer than a typical conventional copier. There are both black and white and color models available and most distributors offer copiers for sale or lease. Most digital copiers are known as multifunctional units, which are scanners, copiers, and printers rolled into one. Many models even include fax capabilities or offer it as an option.
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