Printer Supplies for Your Small Business

Are you a new business owner getting ready to open your first brick-and-mortar store?

Are you the owner of an established business but moving locations?

Make sure you have everything in place for a successful opening! It can be stressful and you’ll probably leave at least one or two things off your list. Trying to manage everything alone can be frustrating, but what if you had another company helping you?

MCS is a family-owned business and we know what it’s like to start from the ground up. When MCS was founded over 20 years ago, we relied on support from the Ann Arbor business community to get our business up and running.

Now, we’re paying it forward and helping businesses like yours. We have everything you need to get started or to get that new location going so your business can thrive.

When you work with a local printer supply company in Ann Arbor, you get all the benefits of shopping local, like:

• Shopping local helps boost the economy of your community, and often provides you with better options for customer service, quick shipping and delivery, and better-quality product.
• When you work with a local company, you’ll talk to a real, live human being rather than an automated responder.

Learn more on our website!

MCS – The Solution to All Your Business Needs

Helping Southeast Michigan businesses save time and money with their printing needs has been MCS' top priority for more than twenty years.

Our mission at MCS is to provide the very best value in printer supplies and service, custom labels, bar code and data collection products, paper, and more to the Ann Arbor business community and beyond. Your custom labels and hard to find supplies can even be stocked at our warehouse for on-demand delivery!

Contact MCS here and let's start your culture of kindness experience today! You'll be glad you did, and we can't wait to help you.

Is an Inkjet or Laser Printer Best for You?

Are you buying a new printer for your business? 

Are you stuck at a crossroads trying to decide between an inkjet printer and laser printer?

Are you worried you don’t even know the main differences between printer toner and printer ink?

You’re not alone! One of the top searches on Google in the printing industry is “what’s the difference between an inkjet and laser printer”. Consumers have been asking this question for years!

What’s the Better Choice for Your Ann Arbor Business?

To make the best-informed decision, identify what the main use of your printer will be. If you’re buying a printer for your home office that won’t be used every day, an inkjet printer may be the better choice. If you’re buying for your office where you’ll need to print in high volume and print in color, a color laser printer might be the better choice.

Read the full article about ink vs. toner on our website!

Buy Printer Toner for Your Ann Arbor Business from Michigan Computer Supplies!

Do you wish you could simply order a toner cartridge and have it delivered that same day instead of having to run to the store or waiting up to a week to experience crisp prints again?

Michigan Computer Supplies offers FREE same or next day delivery on most OEM and compatible printer toner cartridges.  We stock a wide variety of toner cartridges that can be hard to find locally.  Our customers are pleased with our competitive pricing too!

MCS carries name brand toner like HP, Lexmark, and Brother to name a few.  Most OEM cartridges are guaranteed by their manufacturers for only 30 days from the date of purchase.

Our local compatible toner comes with a guarantee through the life of each cartridge and customers enjoy FREE cleanings and routine maintenance as well.  This means you will never have to struggle with nor pay for the installation of fusers, maintenance kits, transfer belts, or other consumable components in your machine. Find out more about the benefits of compatible toner cartridges.

Are you ready for crisp, clear prints? Contact us today! We’re happy to help!

The Benefits of Toner Cartridge Recycling and E-Waste Recycling

E-waste is the mist rapidly growing segment of the municipal solid waste stream. Recycling e-waste benefits the environment by:

• Conserving natural resources
• Disposing of toxic chemicals properly
• Protecting and supporting your community by reducing the amount of e-waste that’s incinerated and placed in landfills, which can negatively impact air and water quality.

If you are an MCS customer, we can help your company go green and save you money through our products and services, including FREE e-waste disposal. For those businesses that don’t already partner with us, we’re happy to pick up cartridges and other e-waste for $100.  Being kind to the environment is part of our Culture of Kindness. We are all in this together.

Learning more is as easy as calling us at 734-213-5400 or sending us an email. See how we can help with toner cartridges for your Ann Arbor business today!

Common Mistakes When Buying Printer Ink Cartridges

Do you know if you’re buying the right type of printer cartridges for your machine?

Are you wasting valuable time doing research when you could be spending more time running your business and completing sales?

We can help!

Mistakes when buying cartridges can cost you both time and money. If you’re running a small business, not being able to get printer ink when you need it can disrupt your workflow.

Visit our website to learn more about common mistakes you could be making when buying printer ink!

Our local compatible toner customers enjoy FREE cleanings and routine maintenance as well. This means you will never have to struggle with nor pay for the installation of fusers, maintenance kits, transfer belts, or other consumable components in your machine. Find out more about the benefits of compatible toner cartridges.

Contact us today! We’re happy to help!

Focused on Saving Money on Printer Toner?

If you’re running a small business, your focus might be on saving as much money as possible. If that’s your number one priority, don’t hesitate to choose a printer that can accommodate all of your needs including toner.

When looking to save money, consider only changing toner cartridges when it’s absolutely necessary. Also consider trying compatible toner. Over time, these strategies can help you save money. Make sure you invest in a high quality printer or copier since the better printers will make the cost of any color or black toner much less in the long run.

Find out how color vs. monochromatic printing can affect your bottom line on our website!

"Can you believe that 6 out of every 10 seniors use the internet?"

When you hear the words “senior citizen” and “technology” what do you envision?

Someone with white hair pounding on a keyboard with a puzzled look on his or her face?

Surprisingly, senior citizens are becoming more tech savvy, especially with tablets and smart phones, sometimes more so than middle-aged people!   In fact, six out of every ten seniors use the internet.  

Aaron Smith wrote an article based on a study by Pew Internet and American Life Project.  The study identifies two main groups of seniors divided by education and socio-economic levels.  For instance, 90% of seniors with an annual household income of at least $75,000 go online.  Comparatively, only 39% of seniors who earn less than $30,000 annually go online.  When it comes to education, 87% of seniors with a college degree go online, with only 40% of seniors with a high school diploma or less are active online.

Barriers

The study found that internet use typically diminishes after age 75.  They propose a few barriers that could be the cause. 

1. Physical limitations – poor eyesight, arthritic hands, or a chronic disease.
2. Learning discomfort – 77% of seniors admit to needing someone to walk them through how to use new technology.
3. Skeptical attitudes – many seniors aren’t convinced that they’re missing any information or socializing if they remain offline.  

It’s interesting that seniors aren’t as intimidated by tablets or e-readers, like a Kindle.  An estimated 27% of seniors own a tablet, an e-book reader, or both.  It may because there are very few buttons, making them less likely to make a mistake.  For anyone who has a laptop or a desktop computer, it can be frustrating when you can’t get it to work.  That’s why we offer the friendliest computer repair in Ann Arbor. 

Social Aspects

Many seniors admit to embracing technology to increase their communication with their children, grandchildren, or great-grandchildren.  What teenager doesn’t text these days?  More than half of Americans have a smart phone, and only 18% of them are older adults.  This statistic has risen slightly from 11% in 2011. 

Seniors are still more likely to socialize offline than younger people.  81% of seniors who use social networking sites claim they socialize with others in person or via the telephone almost every day.  Interestingly enough, the seniors who use social networking sites are much more likely to socialize off-line compared to the seniors who are not online at all.  Only 63% of off-line seniors claim to socialize with others on a regular basis. 

A Helping Hand

If you have a senior in your life, whether it’s your boss, family member, or friend, try to offer them help if they are trying a new technology.  Encourage them to learn more through lifelong learning classes offered by many community colleges.  These classes are designed to help adults and seniors get up to speed with computers, phones, tablets, and cameras.  We’re also here as a resource if you have questions about your computer or printer.  We have some of the friendliest staff in town to help you with your computer repair in Ann Arbor and the surrounding areas. 

Contact us today (734) 213-5400 – we can help you with all of your computer and printer needs!  

“Our customers have been extremely loyal to us through the years and we are extremely loyal to them. All of our employees contribute to this by doing their best with incredibly positive attitudes. Life is so precious. Thankfully, our business is not a life threatening one; however, we treat every customer's needs as if it were. We are grateful to have rewarding jobs and customers who are a pleasure to work with.”

Chris Brooks, President

Michigan Computer Supplies: "One of the friendliest places for computer repair Ann Arbor has to offer!"

How to make friends with your I.T. guy or gal!

Have you had to call your company’s I.T. help-line before?

Does the genius who answers the phone ever seem annoyed with you or your problem?

Computers are necessary to almost everything we do, especially at work.  When our computers are on the fritz we tend to get stressed or frustrated.  Then we take it out on the I.T. staff, or so-called “Computer Geeks.”  It’s really helpful to keep these “Geeks” on your side, because they’re generally the experts at solving problems for you!

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when communicating with I.T. staff:

1. Try to remain calm.  If you say mean or negative things to the I.T. guy or gal, they may not be as quick to help you.
2. Make sure your power is working.  If your computer and monitor come on, but you can’t type or move the cursor around, you may just need to replace the batteries in your wireless mouse and keyboard.
3. Try to be specific when describing the problem.  If you say “My computer’s not working,” that doesn’t really help them know what the issue is.  A few better examples might be: “My computer won’t turn on.” “My screen goes black ten minutes after I restart.” or “It’s making an odd noise and it smells hot.” 
4. If you receive an error message, write it down and share it with your technician.
5. Make note of when the problem started.  Does it occur every time you open a specific program?  Try to indicate when it happens and how often.   
6. If you’ve been having issues with your computer or printer, try to contact I.T. soon and don’t wait until you’re in a time crunch.  
7. Remember to say “Thank You” and show your appreciation.  Many I.T. workers feel blamed for problems that are out of their control.

Did you know that Michigan Computer Supplies is one of the friendliest places for computer repair Ann Arbor has available? 

We’re so lucky to have Drew Bedsole on our team.  Drew is highly skilled at repairing computer problems and custom computer builds to meet your business needs. 

Whether you have a computer or printer issue, we can help you troubleshoot and decide the best course of action.  Don’t hesitate to call us today, because we’re the friendliest place for computer repair Ann Arbor has to offer. 
734-213-5400

Pets and Technology- An Accident Waiting to Happen! Michigan Computer Supplies Offers Tips to Pet Proof Your Technology!

Have you caught your dog chewing on your power cords?

Does your cat think your printer’s pull out tray is a diving board?

Our pets love attention, but sometimes when we’re too involved with our technology, accidents happen!

At Michigan Computer Supplies, we care about our customers and strive to give you the best service to keep your technology in tip-top shape!  We offer you the following tips to pet proof your technology:

Cords

• Consider switching to a wireless keyboard and mouse to cut down on some of the cords.
• Use a tube-like cord cover to contain all cords, or secure them to a table leg with Velcro ties. 
• Purchase a spray, available at most pet stores, that makes cords smell and taste unappealing if chewed.

 Tablets and phones

• Use a high quality case to prevent the screen from being cracked if a pet knocks your tablet or phone onto the floor.   
• If your dog drools excessively, you may want to consider a water proof case as well.  

Monitors

• Try not to place your monitor on the edge of a desk or shelf.  If the cord is tugged on, or chewed it could easily pull the monitor onto the floor. 

Liquids

• Don’t leave drinks near your technology.  A pet could swat at the cup, or bump into it and spill the contents. This could short out your system or cause an electrical fire.

Cleaning

• If your pet sheds a lot, chances are their hair is inside of your computer’s case, clogging up the fan.  This could cause your computer to overheat and malfunction.  Follow your owner’s manual to carefully remove the cover and vacuum up the hair and dust.  Try to do this at least once every six months. 
• Compressed air and a small brush can remove hair that has collected in between keys of your keyboard. 
• You may also want to brush your pet often to remove loose hair and discard. 
• Add a silicone keyboard cover to keep out pet hair, dirt, crumbs etc. 

Prevention

• The company Pet Safe, sells “ScatMats” that use tone and static correction options that keep pets from jumping onto counters, couches etc. 
• Some cats are also bothered by plastic wrap or double sided tape.  You could place these items on the corner of desks and countertops to discourage them from jumping up.   
• If you have a dedicated home office, you could install a pet gate to try to prevent pets from getting access to your work space and technology.  Although, it’s just possible that your pets may whine because they miss you. 

Most importantly, don’t forget to unplug from your technology, to give your pet some attention now and then.  Your pet’s happiness and unconditional love will have a more positive affect on you than your e-mail or Facebook updates! 

Please gives us a call if you have any questions on how to maintain your computers and printers.  If your pet caused an unfortunate accident with your equipment, Kyle and Drew are skilled at Ann Arbor computer repair and Ann Arbor printer repair.  They can probably fix you right up!

http://michigancomputersupplies.com/   734-213-5400

That pain in the neck may be more than just stress! Michigan Computer Supplies presents ergonomics!

Do your wrists, neck, shoulders, or back hurt after a few hours at your desk? 

We all know that stress affects our bodies…but it’s just possible that our surroundings could be the cause of our pain.  

When your workplace furniture and equipment does not fit you properly, you may adopt awkward positions that could lead to musculoskeletal disorders.  A common disorder that affects those who work with computers, keyboards, and cash registers is carpal tunnel syndrome. 

The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) offers a plethora of tips and precautions to add to your comfort and safety at work.   Below is a brief sample and a link to learn more!

• The height of your chair and work surface should put your body in a neutral posture.  Your elbows should be about the same height as your keyboard.  You should also be able to keep your shoulders relaxed and your wrists should not bend up, down or to either side.

• If you have an older desk with a pencil drawer, you may have to remove this drawer to be able to raise your chair high enough.  

• Your work surface should not be more than two inches thick. 

• Your monitor should be directly in front of you and at least 20 inches away.  The top line of the screen should be at or below your eye level. 

• Place your monitor perpendicular to windows to prevent glare.  Clean your monitor frequently because a layer of dust can contribute to glare.  If you have strong lighting overhead, you may need to tilt your screen slightly down to decrease the glare. 

Click here for a comprehensive checklist from OSHA that will help you determine if you need to adjust your workspace for comfort and efficiency.  

https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/computerworkstations/checklist.html     

 

We also encourage you to browse our catalog for items such as wrist guards, glare screens, wrist pads and more to make your work more comfortable.  

https://catalog.michigancomputersupply.com/Search/ProductView.aspx?partid=171265&iscustom=0