This International Standard specifies a method for measuring the real output speed or “productivity” of copying machines. This International Standard is applicable to plain paper copying machines equipped with automatic document feeder or handling capability. This International Standard can be used for such machines run in either simplex or duplex copying modes. It is specifically intended for use with non-digital copiers, generally referred to as light-lens or analog devices. This International Standard allows comparison of the throughput copy rates for a machine operated in its various available duplexing modes.

Most copying machines produce duplex copies at a different rate than their nominal speed¹ when automatically feeding originals, and sorting and/or finishing the copies.

Duplex copy modes (1:2,2:1,2:2) are often used. In those modes, a reduction of effective copying speed is frequently clearly noticed.

The degree to which a reduction in productivity is experienced depends significantly on the type of document handler used on a machine. A document handler which presents originals to a copier platen in collated order for a single copy of each page to be made in sucession (precollating) can be provide a very different productivity from one which presents originals for copying of the full number of desired pages before the next original page in sequence is advanced to the platen for copying (postcollating). In addition, the effective productivity of a machine can be influenced by job related parameters, the most dominant of which are the number of originals in a set to be copied, and the run length, or number of copied sets to be produced. Existing standards, as well as common contemporary practices for measuring and reporting copying machine productivity do not adequately take into account these important machine and job related factors.

This International Standard provides a common method for measuring the real output speed or “productivity” when the above mentioned duplexing modes are used, and it allows manufacturers and buyers of copying machines to describe and compare the “productivity” of various copying machines equipped with such features.

¹ Nominal copying speed as used herein refers to copies per minute produced in a continuous copying mode with an original stationary on the machine platen. Measurement of nominal copying shall be according to ISO/IEC 11159-2, parameter 5.1 Copying speed.