www.tmcsquared.com themartins@tmcsquared.com 
        
 630-942-8622 
                                                                 

TMC Squared Newsletter       May 2010

printer
 
Printer Tips 
Like all technology, printers have really changed over the years.
The good news is that printers have dropped dramatically in price. You can get a decent all in one printer, that can also scan copy and fax for less than $100. The bad news is that the quality of the hardware is not what it was 5 years ago. Today, printers are built to sell ink.  The hardware is not made to last more than 3 or 4 years.  If a printer breaks, it is often not worth fixing.
 
Laser Jet vs. Ink Jet
Laser jet printers and their ink cartridges are generally more expensive, BUT the ink cartridges last much longer.  If you are a high volume printer, like many of our attorneys or accountants, Laserjet is the way to go.  In the long run, you will save money.  Ink jet printers are usually sufficient for home use.
 
Features
Things to consider when purchasing a printer:
  • Do you scan or copy a lot of multiple page documents?  You should look for a printer with an automatic document feeder .
  • Do you print a lot of envelopes? You should look for a printer that has 2 different paper feed trays, one that can be easily used for envelopes.
  • How much room do you have and where are you going to put the printer?  Printers vary a great deal in size.
  • Do you have a desktop that you are going to plug into the printer or do you intend to use it wirelessly through out the home from your laptop? You will need to buy a wireless printer.  Wireless printers have improved greatly over the last 18 months. 
 
We can help you select the printer that is right for you. 
 
 Questions? Contact us:
themartins@Tmcsquared.com
 630 942 8622
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   graduate computer  
Need help selecting the right computer for your
 college bound student?
 
 
 

Here are some important things to keep in mind when investing in a computer for your college-bound loved one.

  • Pay close attention to  what the school or program recommends. The computers and software they suggest will be the technology that they are most prepared to support when your student needs tech support.
  • Do not wait until the end of August to make your computer purchase.  You want  time to shop around and take advantage of online bargains.  You also want time for your college student to try out the new computer and work out any bugs.  Computers make excellent graduation gifts. Now is a very good time to start looking.
  • Laptop, not desktop. Dorm rooms are too small for desktops and their monitors.  Very few people take  desktops to school anymore.
  • Pay the extra $200-$300 and get the extended warranty. I promise you, at the end of 4 years (probably sooner) you will thank me. College students are very hard on their computers. 
  • Many colleges offer free or hugely discounted software.  Many also require a specific virus protection in order to be on their network.  Before buying any software, check with the school bookstore to see what they require and offer. You can also go to the College of Dupage bookstore with a student ID (yes for any school) and get an education discount on things like Microsoft Office and Adobe Photoshop.

 

 We are happy to give you more specific advice based on your individual needs...

Contact us

 630 942 8622

TheMartins@Tmcsquared.com 

 Pet of the Month
 
As promised, we are featuring some of our favorite pets of some of our favorite clients each month. Don't be shy! Send us your pet's picture.
 
brooksbeagle
Hanna
Hanna belongs to Maria Brooks. Hanna also belongs to Maria's son, Matt, who many of us know as the guitar player in Ten and Counting.  Look for them at the Taste of Glen Ellyn.  Knowing the Brooks family has definitely helped our cool factor.