When you hear the word “hardware,” quite often the impulse is to think of a multi-function printing device. It may seem like the dealer world revolves around the big boxes and their strong margins and recurring revenue potential, but we mustn’t neglect the other hardware offerings that can really accentuate your product catalog.
As part of our State of the Industry report on non-MFP hardware, we’ve asked the manufacturer community to share some of the less-heralded nuggets that can enable dealers to go wider with existing clients. Similarly, they can act as a conversation starter for a prospect that isn’t currently in need of an MFP upgrade. Whether the product leads or follows, it’s important that your account reps are constantly on the lookout for placement opportunities beyond the box. There certainly isn’t a lack of options that can aid your quest to become that coveted single-source provider.
Avision
With scan speeds up to 150 ppm/300 ipm and a daily duty cycle of 120,000 pages, the high-performance Xerox W150 Scanner is designed for busy environments that need consistent speed, image quality and reliability. It offers a 500-page motorized input tray, built-in imprinter and support for document sizes up to 12×240” that make it ideal for digitizing everything from ID cards to large-format documents. Its parallel scanning technology allows multiple W150 devices to scan concurrently to a single PC, fundamentally changing the economics of ultra-high-speed production capture.
Operators can choose between a traditional USB and network-based scanning via Gigabit Ethernet. It has TWAIN Direct and Visioneer VAST Network technology “under the hood,” so it can support thin scanning workflows and remote device management without installing local drivers or software.
Documents going to the cloud and OCR applications require precise image quality controls. The W150 achieves this through dual CCD sensors and LED light bars that provide consistent light across the page. Xerox designed the W150 to handle even extreme applications, and it’s equipped with two lamps that maximize illumination and help eliminate shadows from wrinkled or folded documents. Built-in Visioneer Acuity Intelligent Image Processing provides more than 25 features.
The scanner also comes equipped with the Visioneer Intelligent Software Platform, which includes OneTouch for easy job-based scanning, Capture SE for advanced batch capture and data extraction, and Organizer AI for automatic document classification and tagging. All three applications work seamlessly to streamline workflows and reduce manual processing time. Additionally, ABBYY FineReader PDF brings powerful OCR, PDF editing and file conversion tools to the bundle, enabling full-text search and compliance-ready output.
Epson
The SureColor S9170 64-inch printer is designed for businesses that produce large-format graphics in-house, as well as small to medium sign shops, print franchises and e-commerce printers. It touts a modern design; a new, sleek form factor; and advanced Epson technology that delivers consistent, high-quality output and a high level of productivity.
The SureColor S9170 leverages an advanced UltraChrome GS3 11-color ink set—including red, orange, an all-new green and opaque white ink—to achieve an expansive color gamut. It can faithfully reproduce virtually any color, delivering up to 99.5% PMS Formula Guide Solid Coated (2022 Edition) Full. The opaque white ink can be used on clear or dark substrates to add versatility and enhance color, creating vibrant images on just about any media. A fast-drying ink set allows for same-day lamination and the ability to mix and match ink packs, providing businesses and print shops the opportunity to install either 800mL or 1,500mL of any color to best suit workflow needs.
Part of what makes the SureColor S9170 stand out is the first-ever user-replaceable PrecisionCore Micro TFP printhead in its class, which features an integrated temperature sensor control. This helps deliver reliable image quality and consistent color so print shops can produce high-impact signage that meets customer expectations. The sleek, modern footprint includes a flat top that can easily be used as a temporary workstation. It takes up less space and easily fits in with any office aesthetic.
The solvent printer includes integrated maintenance features, such as automatic daily printhead maintenance, to keep production running smoothly for fast, high-quality output with maximum efficiency. It seamlessly integrates with powerful management tools, including Epson Edge Print Pro RIP software and Epson Cloud Solution PORT for production monitoring and fleet management.
HP
HP has expanded its document scanning portfolio with the HP ScanJet Pro 4200 s1 and the HP ScanJet Enterprise Flow 9000 Series. Built for everything from front-desk tasks to high-volume back-office workflows, both scanners deliver fast speeds, intelligent automation and enterprise-grade security.
The HP ScanJet Pro 4200 s1 is a compact A4 scanner ideal for everyday office use; it can scan documents, ID cards and passports with no carrier sheet needed. A 50-sheet ADF, one-pass duplex scanning and speeds up to 40 ppm/80 ipm help streamline busy workflows, while HP Scan Pro software adds automation, searchable file creation and MRZ data extraction.
The HP ScanJet Enterprise Flow 9000 Series handles wide-format scanning up to A3 size with speeds up to 80 ppm/160 ipm. A 100-sheet ADF, low-speed mode for delicate documents and support for media up to 420 gsm make it a powerhouse for enterprise environments. Available in USB and network models, it features HP Scan Premium software and advanced security features such as HP Secure Boot.
Katun Corp.
In today’s imaging industry, consistent performance, reliability and sustainability are essential, especially as more organizations seek high quality, cost-effective toner solutions. Katun, a global leader in OEM-equivalent toner products and provider of Arivia MFPs, has more than 46 years of experience delivering environmentally conscious printing solutions for MFPs.
As printing needs evolve in hybrid work environments and sustainability becomes a growing priority, the company is seeing increased demand for its OEM-alternative toner. Designed to match the performance of original cartridges, Katun toner supports circular economy goals by minimizing landfill waste and reducing the use of virgin plastics, particularly through remanufactured and eco-friendly solutions.
Katun’s three-phase process—development, qualification and quality assurance—ensures that every toner product meets the highest standards. Initial development includes rigorous testing of toner, chips and cartridges across multiple OEM machines. The qualification phase involves millions of printed pages, simulating real-world conditions to fine-tune performance and durability. Final quality checks include first-ship validation, supplier certifications and ongoing product monitoring. Testing is conducted at Katun’s new, state-of-the-art Innovation Hub in Taichung, Taiwan, where toner formulations are refined to deliver consistent, reliable results.
Konica Minolta
Konica Minolta’s AccurioPress C14010S and C12010S digital presses are designed to streamline operations and boost company productivity through automation. The introduction of white toner as a fifth color option allows businesses to explore new creative avenues, such as eye-catching effects, further expanding offerings and enabling businesses to tap into new revenue streams. Delivering print speeds of up to 140 ppm and 120 ppm, respectively, these presses combine speed with precision.
Multiple tools help operators work more efficiently; reduce manual adjustments for unattended, uninterrupted printing; and deliver flawless print results faster. Advanced smart technology includes the Intelligent Quality Optimizer Unit (IQ-601) and Intelligent Media Sensors, which work together to ensure consistent, high-quality output with minimal user intervention. These sensors automatically adjust image positioning and detect paper type, weight and size, eliminating alignment errors and optimizing settings instantly.
All AccurioPress devices include Auto Quality Adjustment (AQA), designed to maintain and optimize print quality automatically. AQA can provide detailed diagnostics and automatic image correction depending on the configuration. When paired with the IQ-601, it can reduce service calls and assist with diagnostics by identifying potential issues and recommending parts for troubleshooting.
Additional remote diagnostics and image correction are possible for devices that are connected via Konica Minolta’s bizhub vCare Pro-Suite. bizhub vCare takes a remote-first approach to proactive service, providing extensive data and monitoring product health, status and service needs. The technology integrates into dealers’ ERPs and eliminates the need to contact anyone for support, saving time and money on service calls.
Kyocera
As the print industry evolves, the demand for a cost-effective, high-quality alternative to toner and offset printing is growing. Kyocera’s answer for that comes in the form of the TASKalfa Pro 15000c, a robust solution to today’s in-plants, digital print providers and commercial printers. Pairing it with one of the Kyocera’s in-line finishing solutions, such as the Plockmatic BF-450e/435e booklet maker, provides what the company sees as an even more complete product that stands out in the market.
The TASKalfa Pro 15000c has led the North American cut sheet inkjet market for the past four years. The company’s flagship printing device is built on decades of inkjet printing experience, offering an affordable entry point into “Inkjet for All.”
The Plockmatic BF-450e/435e booklet maker is a compact, easy-to-use finishing system that connects seamlessly in-line with the TASKalfa Pro 15000c, enabling users to bring finishing operations in-house to help cut costs, reduce turnaround times and increase control over production. It processes a wide range of printed sheets to produce professional-grade applications, including school curriculum booklets, lesson plans, reports, manuals, brochures and marketing materials.
With capabilities such as edge stapling, folding, spine forming and trimming, the system delivers high-quality, stapled booklets with a polished, professional finish. For even greater flexibility, the optional rotate, crease, trim (RCT) unit enables the production of full-bleed, saddle-stitched booklets, which are ideal for high-impact visual communications.
Ricoh
In June of this year, Ricoh unveiled a new imaging platform for the light-production printing segment with the launch of the RICOH Pro C5400S and RICOH Pro C5410S sheetfed digital printers (RICOH Pro C5400S Series). Designed for high-quality, professional-grade output in a compact and versatile format, the RICOH Pro C5400S Series builds on the strengths of its predecessor models—the RICOH Pro C5300S and Pro C5310S — by offering faster warm-up times as low as 26 seconds, up to 80 ppm, improved scanning speeds and enhanced usability through a responsive capacitive touch 10.1” Smart Operation Panel.
A unique feature of the RICOH Pro C5400S Series is its industry-first staple-less binding option, which uses water and pressure to bind up to 16 sheets of paper without metal staples. This reduces waste and enhances recyclability while also improving document handling in safety-conscious settings where sharp objects are a concern such as schools, nursing homes and care facilities, and food service locations.
The RICOH Pro C5400S Series supports a wide range of media types, including coated, specialty and synthetic stocks up to 360 gsm, making it ideal for marketing agencies, in-plant operations and commercial printers looking to expand their service offerings. Its design features 25% post-consumer recycled plastics (an increase of five times compared to its predecessor models) and 21% electric furnace steel, reducing environmental impact without sacrificing durability.
Sharp
The All-in-One Direct View LED (dvLED) Series from Sharp is an innovative leap forward in large-format display technology. Available in 138” and 165” screen sizes, these all-in-one displays are engineered for integration into corporate boardrooms, conference spaces and educational environments.
Sharp designed the displays for visual impact, and they deliver seamless, high-contrast imagery with superior brightness, which helps ensure bold presentations in any lighting condition. Unlike traditional LED walls, these displays are truly plug-and-play, eliminating the complexity of multi-component installations. They also provide:
Fast, streamlined setup: The All-in-One dvLED Series can be fully installed in less than two hours with no need for specialized training. This dramatically reduces deployment time and cost, empowering organizations to get up and running quickly with minimal disruption.
Modern connectivity for versatile collaboration: They’re equipped with multiple HDMI and USB-C ports for flexible AV input, built-in Wi-Fi for wireless casting and media playback, integrated System on Chip (SoC) running Android 13 for app support and robust media performance, and compatibility with major AV control platforms, including NaViSet Administrator and Crestron Connected.
User-friendly, enterprise-ready experiences: The displays offer seamless navigation and dependable performance, and they deliver clarity, functionality and simplicity for modern environments.
Toshiba
Toshiba America Business Solutions is looking to elevate barcode labeling for industrial purposes with the recent introduction of its new thermal printers. The company’s high-performance BX410T Series presents manufacturing, logistics and retail professionals with an efficient, secure and flexible labeling hub.
The printers couple field-proven hardware with a dual-core processor running both real-time and Linux operating systems to power the company’s latest A-BRID ecosystem, which merges its multifunction printer technology with label printers to blend IT applications and best practices.
These A-BRID-powered printers deliver:
Traceability: Organizations can track packages precisely and confidently.
Flexibility: Cloud connectivity and customizability help businesses tailor their printing. For example, cloning functionality simplifies device deployment at scale while significant security elements and network functions provide further organizational flexibility and peace of mind.
More control: Companies have access to secure operation and management of printer fleets at any time and from any location. Toshiba’s Elevate Sky MFPConnect and SOTI Connect enterprise software enable IoT device management, so manufacturing, logistics and retail personnel can centrally support their printer fleet, manage counters and logs and deploy firmware automatically.
Smoother workflows: The printers control all aspects of label production for a smarter, more efficient setup. This includes printing perfectly aligned PDF labels directly from enterprise resource planning applications without installing a print driver. Additionally, the printers’ web interface bypasses organizations’ need for separate software.
Seamless integration: Connectivity with automatic printer language recognition and easy data conversion makes industrial labeling a breeze.
Superior user experience: Premium functionality, including label near-end detection, proprietary Ribbon Save technology (standard within the company’s industrial printer line) and a 4.3-inch full-color LCD, help streamline daily industrial operations.
Xerox
Xerox works under a mantra that in today’s competitive print landscape, standing out means offering more than just high-quality output; it entails delivering impact, innovation and value with every page. To respond to that shift in the marketplace, the company began offering its Xerox Iridesse Production Press. Designed for commercial printers and in-plant providers, Iridesse combines image quality, media handling and embellishment capabilities in a single digital press.
At its core, the Iridesse prints vibrant CMYK with true 1200×1200 dpi x 10-bit resolution, but what sets it apart is support for up to two specialty dry inks in a single pass. From gold and silver metallics to white, clear and fluorescent pink, Iridesse enables eye-catching effects and premium finishes without the need for additional offline processes.
A standout feature of the platform is its automatic gamut extension, which can dynamically blend fluorescent pink with CMYK to push colors beyond the traditional gamut, yielding brighter oranges, richer purples and punchier reds. No manual intervention is needed, allowing designers to easily achieve vivid results.
Iridesse also supports a wide media range, from lightweight stocks to heavyweight synthetics, with advanced automation features that maintain consistent color and registration for high-impact direct mail, luxury packaging, photobooks or marketing collateral.
