Copier Control Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can I purchase PaperCut MF directly from PaperCut Software?

Q. Can I download PaperCut MF directly from PaperCut Software?

Q. What is the difference between PaperCut MF and other editions of PaperCut?

Q. Which multi-functional copier and printer models are supported?

Q. How much does it cost?

Q. Which user payment methods are supported and suitable for a school enviroment?

Q. Which user payment methods are supported and suitable for a unversity environment?

Q. What are the main benefits of using copier terminal over the copier's in-built options?

Q. Where can the hardware / terminals be purchased?

Q. What is the timeframe on the embedded solutions?

Q. Do you intended to support other copier terminals in the future?

Q. Are the copier options available in languages other than English?

Q. Do I need to issue cards to all my users?

Q. Can I install and setup the hardware myself?

Q. How do I become a reseller?

Q. I have more questions.

General information about PaperCut is available in the Knowledge Base at:

http://www.papercut.com/kb/


Copier Control

Can I purchase PaperCut MF directly from PaperCut Software?

PaperCut MF is a supported solution, and is available for purchase from resellers who have the ability to offer local support and service. PaperCut MF resellers have been selected to ensure they can offer a high standard of service and support in their respective regions. To find a PaperCut MF reseller in your region, see the How To Buy page.

Can I download PaperCut MF directly from PaperCut Software?

Because PaperCut MF is specifically designed to integrate with multi-functional copiers and printers, value loaders and other devices, special hardware or installation services are sometimes required. For this reason, PaperCut MF is only available from an authorized, experienced reseller.

To get a quick overview of the print control features of PaperCut MF, or to explore the interface and other available features, you can download PaperCut NG from www.papercut.com for a free trial.

What is the difference between PaperCut MF and other editions of PaperCut?

PaperCut MF was specifically designed to extend the capabilities of other editions of PaperCut to monitor and control multi-functional copiers and printers, and integrate with payment services. These are features only available in PaperCut MF.

Which multi-functional copier and printer models are supported?

With the variety of tracking methods available, almost all models are supported. We support a number of 3rd party hardware terminals and the terminal manufacturers do their best to ensure compatibility with leading models.

How much does it cost?

Pricing is available from your local reseller. Prices are not published on the website as cost will vary depending on the model and make of your multi-functional copier or printer, your location, and the size of your network. Your reseller can assist with pricing for your site and particular requirements.

Which user payment methods are supported and suitable for a school enviroment?

Top-up / pre-paid cards are a simple, convenient way for schools to issue credit or extra quotas to users. The concept is very similar to using coupons or vouchers. No special hardware is required (other than a printer!), and students will find them easy to understand and use.

Credit card payments may be suitable if external access is provided for parents to make payments.

Integration with cashless systems is also available.

Which user payment methods are supported and suitable for a university environment?

Top-up / pre-paid cards are a simple, convenient way for schools to issue credit or extra quotas to users. The concept is very similar to using coupons or vouchers. No special hardware is required (other than a printer!), and students will find them easy to understand and use.

Users can make their own credit card payments using PaperCut's integration with 3rd party payment services.

Integration with cashless systems is also available.

What are the main benefits of using copier terminals over the copier's in-built options?

The main benfits of the integrated PaperCut solution are:

  • Single set of accounts and account balances
  • Consolidated reporting
  • Centralized management of data, costs and access rules
  • Users access and use the copier using the same account selection process as they do for printers
  • Enhanced functionality and reporting across all copy and print devices from a single package
  • Enables a site to control all its devices not just one specific brand from a single package
  • The solution can remain even if the device is replaced

Please visit the Copier / MFD Integration Tour page to see this in action.

Where can the hardware / terminals be purchased?

From, or organized by, your local reseller.

What is the timeframe on the embedded solutions?

This is a little open ended at the moment. We've found that the current generation of embedded environments are still a little immature and do not support all the functions required. It is likely that we'll release support for some devices before others. We will announce on the website as soon as new devices are supported. Please email us if you require more specific information.

Do you intended to support other copier terminals in the future?

Following investigation into a number of terminal suppliers, we found that the currently supported terminals provide a rich set of features (matching PaperCut's required functionality) at a competitive price. They meet our goal of providing a vendor neutral solution that will work with almost all copiers and MFD brands without needing additional additional software or annual licencing fees, which a number of manufacturers request. Working with hardware is a little different from software in that lead times are longer and a good relationship needs to exist between the software and hardware teams. We may consider other hardware types and devices in the future but our main focus is on the currently supported terminals and the development of embedded solutions.

Are the copier options available in languages other than English?

Yes, we've already started translation into a number of languages. We have a few technical hurdles to overcome before we can fully support Asian languages on some devices, but PaperCut itself is already translated into many different languages.

Do I need to issue cards to all my users?

No. PaperCut is able to authenticate users using a number of different methods including:

Keypad Entry
The system requests the user to enter their unique ID and optional secret pin.
Card Swipe
The system will accept a number read from a card. The range of terminals support a number of different card types from magnetic stripe to barcode to proximity (HID and MIFARE) cards.

Organizations with existing issued employee/student cards should consider the card option, while others may find ID numbers the most convenient. The ID or card numbers are stored in the PaperCut database and are entered manually or via a text file import out of another system or list.

Can I install and setup the hardware myself?

Unfortunately for most of the copiers currently available the answer is no. Your local reseller can assist with installation.

How do I become a reseller?

A reseller application form is available here. For further information please contact us.

I have more questions.

Your local reseller can provide further information. You may also find the general PaperCut FAQ and Knowledge Base useful.