The general perception might be that HP is by far the leader in the printer segment. However, brands like Canon also have a sizeable presence and keep introducing new printers to stay relevant and bring in better user experience. The latest set of printers to be introduced by Canon are termed third-generation printers.
There are broadly five models being launched now in the Indian market and there are different variants in each case. iR-ADV C355i-A4 Colour; iR-ADV C3500 series (3 variants); iR-ADV 4500 series (4 variants)-A3 Mono; iR-ADV C5500i Series (4 variants)-A3 Colour, and ‘iR C3020’-A3 Colour.
The latest generation printers come with larger displays; touchscreens that are 10.1 inches in size, which facilitate better communications to the printer. The touchscreens offer features like what one finds on smart devices like swiping across the screen and pinching to get things moving.
The login and access to the printers are also made more secure and user specific. These aim at helping business organizations control access and usage of the devices within their premises. There is also a ‘Force Hold Printing’, where the user can review and edit the print settings before the document is printed.
The acronym iR -ADV used in the model names of these Canon printers expands to ‘image RUNNER ADVANCE’. These devices have been built with advanced technologies to improve the overall functioning of the printers and offer better user experience.
There are two more interesting features the Canon printers of the third-generation variety are provided with. One is the Content Delivery System (CDS), which permit updates to firmware, through remote operations. Termed ‘e-maintenance’, this feature allows all printers in an enterprise to be simultaneously upgraded. What’s more, this can be programmed to be done during off-hours so that work does not suffer.
Extending this concept further, there is the in-built Remote Operator Software Kit available on the new generation Canon printers which enable the technical experts from Canon’s end to resolve many common issues remotely. This eliminates the need to depute a technician or an engineer to physically attend to the machines. Saving the time and cost are additional benefits.
The wireless LAN printing capability, obviously, is also part of the features on these third-generation printers from Canon.
Canon believes it can boost its business in the country through the introduction of this new range of its latest printers and build on the already strong position they enjoy.