photocopying machine
A photocopying machine, often simply called a copier, is an essential piece of office equipment that revolutionized document reproduction. This sophisticated device uses xerography technology to create exact duplicates of documents and images on paper. The process begins when the original document is placed on a glass platen or fed through an automatic document feeder. The machine then uses a bright light to scan the original, creating a digital image that is transferred onto a photosensitive drum. This drum, electrostatically charged, attracts toner particles that correspond to the image pattern. The toner is then transferred onto blank paper and fused using heat and pressure, creating a permanent copy. Modern photocopiers offer various features including double-sided copying, color reproduction, document sorting, stapling, and the ability to reduce or enlarge images. Many contemporary models are multifunction devices that combine printing, scanning, and faxing capabilities. These machines can handle various paper sizes, from small A5 sheets to large A3 formats, and can produce multiple copies at high speeds, typically ranging from 20 to 100 pages per minute, depending on the model specifications.