Ricoh manufactures a broad line of Aficio multifunction office machines, and the 2027 has been one of the more popular models. The 2027 is the updated version of the Aficio 1027, and is basically identical to the Aficio 2022, with the only difference being copying speed; the 2022 is a 22 copy-per-minute machine, whereas the 2027 is a (you guessed it) 27 copy-per-minute machine.
The 2027 S/P is just like the 2027, with the printing and scanning options already installed. It comes standard with two adjustable paper trays which can accommodate paper sizes ranging from 8.5" x 5.5" (half letter size) all the way up to 11" x 17" (ledger size). Each tray can hold 500 sheets. The bypass tray can be used for atypical paper sizes, both smaller and larger than the normal range, as well as for thicker or heavier paper.
The 2027 S/P retailed for $8,465.00 in 2004, but if you can find a used or refurbished one, you may be able to buy it for next to nothing. The basic machine is able to copy, print, or scan, but you may have to purchase add-ons such as an automatic document feeder, paper tray unit (two additional paper trays similar to the two trays that come standard), large capacity tray (which can hold up to 2,000 letter-sized pieces of paper), fax option, or one of the two available finishers, both of which can staple and sort.
As with most modern Ricoh copiers, the 2027 uses an ultra-thin hot roller in its fusing unit, which allows the machine to warm up completely from a cold start in only 15 seconds. If the machine is powered on but idle, warm up time is only 10 seconds. This quick start technology is one of Ricoh's biggest selling points, especially for busy office environments. Many businesses are used to older copiers, which can take anywhere from three to five minutes to warm up when turned on.
The 2027 is extremely user friendly. Almost any operation can be done to the user's specifications. Copies can be reduced or enlarged from 25% all the way up to 400%, and commonly used magnifications can be set as one-button functions. You (the user) can specify "text" or "photo" mode, and the machine will adjust itself for optimum copy quality either way. There are many other options you can use to maximize copy quality. If you choose the "generation" option, the machine knows that the original you want to copy is not as perfect as it could be (for example, if it is a copy of a copy of a copy), and it will do its best to eliminate any black specks or dirt spots appearing on the original from being reproduced on the copy.
If utilized to its full potential, the Aficio 2027 SP can be a great tool to increase the productivity of any office environment. Fully accessorized, it can handle printing, copying, and faxing, and even output each type of job to a different tray to avoid confusion.
The Aficio 2027 is one of the easiest Ricoh copiers to maintain because the photoconductor unit (PCU) comes as one customer-installable piece, which means that if the user changes it regularly at intervals of 60,000 copies (recommended) they can avoid many of the typical service problems that plague some of the larger copiers, and reduce machine downtime so that the business can stay productive rather than come to a screeching halt.
Most dealerships will try to sell you a comprehensive service contract with any multifunction copier. Though the contract may seem high-priced, this is not a gimmick. It usually (depending on the dealer) includes all parts and labor, as well as consumable supplies (toner and PCUs - sometimes staples as well) which can get very expensive if purchased separately.
The Aficio 2027 S/P is a customizable low-volume multifunctional system which is not only user-friendly, but also relatively easy to maintain. It can minimize downtime and help to maximize your company's efficiency.