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MULTIFUNCTION PERIPHERALS OFFER ADVANTAGES

As I see it, peripherals that perform more than one function really have only one main disadvantage over their single minded counterparts. If a multifunction unit breaks down, you're suddenly going to find yourself without a lot of peripherals, and all at the same time. While it's true that's a very big disadvantage, I still think the pros make these devices worth consideration. Performance could be another disadvantage. I say it could be because performance varies from model to model. For example, it used to be that the printer component would be of less quality or speed, than a stand-alone printer. However, many multifunction units are as good or can even outperform dedicated units. So it's best to check and compare the specifications before you buy.

The two obvious multifunction advantages are price and space. A multifunction's cost is usually a lot less than having to buy separate peripherals. And given that everything is in one unit, these models usually take up a lot less space on your desk.

Lexmark has just introduced its first multifunction color printer but a first glance the Z82 might be mistaken for a copier. Instead of modeling the Z82 to resemble its primary function as a color inkjet printer, Lexmark made it look like a flat bed scanner. Complete with a front panel sporting control buttons and a display, the Z82 connects to your Windows based PC via the USB or parallel interface standards.

Providing printing, scanner, copying and fax abilities, the color inkjet printer provides 1200 by 1200 dots-per-inch resolution with dual head printer cartridges for four or six color printing. The flat bed scanner accommodates 24 bit color and 300 by 600 resolution. Software includes drivers, OCR and faxing programs to round out the package.

One of the nicest features is that you can use the copying abilities without the need for the computer to be turned on. Simply place the document on the glass panel and select from a range of copying options that include reduction and enlargement from 25 to 400 percent. $179. Requires Windows.

www.lexmark.com

Intel has come up with a novel multifunction camera for Windows PCs. Most video cameras that connect to the computer must remain connected. But Intel's Pocket PC Camera detaches from its USB connection to become a stand-alone digital camera for taking snap shots and recording short 30 frames-per-second movie sequences. About the size of a deck of cards, the Pocket PC Camera has 8 megabytes of memory and takes 640 by 480 24 bit images suitable for on screen viewing and posting on web sites. You hear an electronic click when snapping your pictures and an old movie camera whir when taking movies. An LCD display shows the different modes, pictures taken and other pertinent information. The camera comes with a detachable stand, driver and several application programs that let you download and edit your im ages, a video phone application and necessary connection cables. $149. Requires Windows.

www.intel.com