Document Feeders: DSDP vs. RADP

“Document Processor” is the modern word for a “Document Feeder.” Dual scan document processor (DSDP) and reversing automatic document processor (RADP) share similarities, but there are a few distinct advantages of one over the other.

Both DSDP and RADP Feeders allow you to place your originals on the Document Feeder and both feed your documents into the copier, but the differences between them are described below.

Dual Scan Document Processor (DSDP)

As the name implies, this type of document processor uses two scanners built into the feeding system:

1. The 1st scanner is embedded into the document feeder and scans your documents as they are fed into the copier.
2. The 2nd scanner is embedded in the copier (to the left of the glass)

Advantages of DSDP include:

• No Reversal of Originals: Two sided originals are scanned simultaneously without the feeder having to reverse the originals
• Faster Copying of Two Sided Documents: Since there is no reverse action, 2-sided documents are copied and printed faster with DSDP since there is no need to reverse the documents to scan.
• Fewer Misfeeds: Since your originals do not reverse, there’s less chance of misfeeds
• Preservation of Originals: Fewer misfeeds mean less chance of damage to originals
• Accepts wide variety of paper from 16 lb. to 32 lb.
• Faster scanning
• Up to 270 page capacity

Disadvantages of DSDP

• Cost: Since it has (2) Scanners and more feed tires and parts, it cost slightly more than the RADP, although in a lease the cost difference is negligible compared to the what to the benefits it delivers

Reversing Automatic Document Processor (RADP)

This type of document process has only 1 scanner. The single scanner is embedded in the copier to the left of the glass requiring 2-sided originals to be reversed through the same scanner.

Disadvantages of RADP

• Misfeeds: Since your originals have to Reverse to copy/print on the 2^nd side, misfeeding of your originals is greater than the DSDP
• Damage: More wear and tear on your originals because of Increased misfeeds
• Limited thickness of originals: 20lb. to 28lb. stock
• Slower copy/printing as your originals have to reverse
• Longer job completion time

Advantage:

• Cost: An RADP is slightly less expensive than a DSDP

Need it?

Even though both Document Processors/Document Feeders basically provide similar functions as far as feeding your originals into the copier, I recommend the DSDP over the RADP for the reasons outlined above.

When leasing the equipment, the difference in price is negligible compared to the advantages gained with the dual scan document processor (DSDP).

“It is better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it.”