Information Technology at Purdue

Desktop Computing Services and Multifunction Printing Devices:

This document is intended to clarify how DCS will support any printing device having functions other than standard printing. This is to include copy, fax, staple, and other functions not standard on a network laser printer.

Our support model provides that we connect the customer to a printer via a print server (we are currently using an HP Print Appliance). This server does not deal with extended features satisfactorily and in general the only functions we can ensure are the ability to print, duplex, and sort. Consequently, using our current support model we do not have a way to make a multifunction device work on a large scale. These devices require static IP address and client software loaded on all desktops intended to use the device.

The most common configuration we have been approached to support is a copier, printer, and fax device. Our technicians are not trained in copier support nor are they contracted to do so. With that in mind, DCS cannot provide a support for this type of device. All hardware and software support for the multifunction device remains with the vendor and subsequent problems should be addressed directly with the vendor.

What services can we provide to our customers? We can arrange to have the needed network connection activated and configured as per vendor specifications. We can support and troubleshoot the network connection. We will continue to support the desktop with the understanding that in the event that there is a problem with the added software we will return the desktop to a known good state. Any problems with the desktops should continue to be called into the Customer Service Center at 44000 or email itap@purdue.edu.