How to Buy a Printing Calculator

Tips for buying a printing calculator

1. A printing calculator is basically a calculator that has a built-in printer. Most are general calculators in terms of the functions that they can perform. They may or may not have a few additional functions to offer, like printing percentage values, profit graphs and so on.
2. Printing calculators are significantly larger than standard calculators and the model may or may not be fully portable. Some units are designed so that they can be carried in briefcases for ease of portability. Smaller models are usually portable, while heavy-duty larger models may or may not be so. Power sources can range from between two and four ‘AA’ sized batteries for the smaller models to direct A/C current power input for the heavy-duty models. Always check on the rated power consumption of the unit. Ensure that it has a ‘standby’ mode that allows the calculator to save power. If the calculator is battery operated, do check on the total battery life available.
3. Printing calculators usually have a toggle switch that allows you to either simply view a result on the display, or to view the result as well as print it out. You need not want a printout for each and every calculation that you make. Make sure the display reads in one single line and is not broken up into two lines.
4. Some models will allow you to print in two colors, black and red. Additions and a lot of the other functions are usually printed in black while subtractions are printed in red. The advantage of these models is that they allow you to view complex calculations in a user-friendly manner. You must decide whether you need a full black-and-white model or a color model. Do remember that the black-and-white models will be more economical in terms of printing costs.
5. Check on the price of the paper rolls, the refills and the ink roller to correctly estimate the operating cost of the calculator. Always check if the rollers and paper rolls are of a standard size that will fit most models of printing calculators or of a specific size that is restricted to one particular model or company. Go for a printing calculator that is more standardized in its accessories since it will be more economical and convenient for you in the long run.

Caution

All calculator models do not offer the same standardized functions. In case you are looking for a specific function that the calculator must perform like displaying profit percentages, always check that the model you select has that function built into its features.

Where to buy a printing calculator

Printing calculators are available at office supplies stores and with manufacturers of electronics goods. Try these links for some good options--

Casio is a leading manufacturer of computer products and electronics.

Staples.com has good deals on a wide range of printing calculators.

Sharp is a leading manufacturer of electronic products and has a good range of printing calculators.