FLC Supported Printers

The IT department is no longer supporting the use of desktop or USB printers and will not spend significant time troubleshooting these devices. These devices can still be purchased and are still subject to purchasing rules. Mainly, that IT must approve any technology purchase of over $100. If you wish to purchase a personal desktop or USB connected printer, then email your request or any questions to AskIT@fortlewis.edu. These printers are considered personal devices and you would use it like you would a home printer, without support from Fort Lewis IT.

All new network printers will be added to the Managed Print Program. The cost of the new hardware is completely covered by IT and at no charge to the department.

What is the Managed Print Program?

In November 2015, Fort Lewis College entered into a 5 year contract with ImageNet Consulting  to provide Managed Print Services. ImageNet Consulting charges the College per print and for that per print charge we are guaranteed:

  • All Ink cartridges are covered. The printers are being monitored by ImageNet Consulting and there will no longer be a need to order or stock supplies. You will receive ink/toner prior to it going empty.
  • Any service or repair costs as well as parts are covered. If the printer is a lemon or cannot be repaired, Image Net will replace it without charge.
  • Plain Letter and Legal paper is covered
  • Use of software to track printing, which will eventually automatically feed into the IT billing system.

Other benefits to the program:

  • Guarantees that you have a working printer and you do not have to pay for any repairs or maintenance. Peace of mind is worth something.
  • No more ordering Toner or ink. Nor will you have the issue of overstocking supplies only to have the printer die or have them expire.
  • Detailed Reports for Departmental decision makers can be provided to help analyze your department's usage.
  • Lowers departmental printing costs.We know paying as you go sounds more expensive, but ImageNet purchases toner and ink at a national level, therefore they are getting per unit costs that we could never get. In analyzing all of the lab printers, we have seen a nearly 25% savings per year on supplies and repairs since joining the program.

What are the costs?

For network printers, the new managed printer will be supplied at no cost to the department. We have standard printers, multi-function printers (Copy/Scan/Fax), and there are LaserJet options for each as well.

The per printing costs can vary based on the device. Most of our printers have a rate of $0.01 per black and white page and $0.07 per color page. The standard LaserJet printer has a rate of $0.03 per black and white page and $0.08 per color page. Then the software program charges $0.01 per sheet of paper used.

If a department needs a device outside of these four choices, then we will have to discuss the use case and determine the appropriate device. Departments can upgrade or change device types as needs change.

IT also stocks standard hardware for convenient purchase through budget transfer. We stock things like memory, monitors, speakers, and docking stations. Check out these items at the IT Store.