Multi Function Centre - Good or Bad?

the_gasman_2

I am setting up as a sole trader and have limited space to put office equipment. It will probably end up in corners all over the house! I need a fax machine, answer machine, photo copier and wondered whether to get a MFC to save space. I am using my mobile number for calls and want to use our home landline to receive faxes only and to leave messages, however I do not want the general public to know that it's also our home landline number. I am presuming that by using a different ring tone so that no-one picks it up when a fax is coming I will get away without needing a second line etc.

My friend is folding her business and has a Brother Fax 1840C/1940CN, which does the above I think and I could get it cheap!

Are they expensive to run?

Thanks

lifeisgood

BT have a "call sign" feature, you get an additional number with a separate ringtone, so your customers will not know your home number. (Remember to dial 141 before phoning customers, though, or they will be able to access your main number).

I use the call sign number with a standard BT fax/answering machine, which doubles as a photocopier for single sheets. My printer is an HP psc which is also a flatbed copier and scanner.

the_gasman_2

We have just changed from BT to Virgin Media package for broadband and free calls. I think we still pay BT line rental (not sure OH sorted). If I was to use call sign feature what charges are applicable? Do ya pay 2-line rentals each month?

lifeisgood

No, you pay the normal line rental for your package plus £1.75. It is one of the "value features" like call divert, call waiting etc.
It costs £3.50 per month for 2-4 of these extras.

The link to the bt site is too long to post here. I'm new to MSE and haven't learnt how to post a long link yet.

the_gasman_2

Thank you that sounds like the way to go...

I'll phone BT and ask them about it direct, it's usually easier than searching the net.

:T

Babylonian_2

If you have broadband try VOIP - I signed up with https://www.voipfone.co.uk - a geographical biz number is costing me £1.99 (vat inc) a month. The line is really clear.

There is a useful article on their site which explains how it works http://www.voipfone.co.uk/How_to_Get_A_Telephone_Number_For_Your_Business.php

If you decide to go with Voipfone please pm me for a referral (not sure if that is allowed - apologies mods if not)

On the multifunction side I got a canon pixma 8300 today - the Which Best Buy - it's fab - scans, faxes, prints and copies.