Richard is attempting to select a photo printer so he can produce high-quality prints of his digital photographs. Printer A costs $190 and toner consumption is estimated to cost $.30 per print. Printer B costs $285 and toner consumption is estimated at $.20 per print. Richard expects to use the printer for one year, at which time he'll probably upgrade to a better one. Which of the following statements is true about the comparison of the two printers?
A) If Richard averages less than 79 prints per month over the next year, Printer A will be cheaper for him.
B) On average, Richard's photos will cost $.50 each no matter which printer he selects.
C) If Richard selects the low-cost printer at a volume of 1000 prints, and actually prints 1200 pictures over . the next year, his total cost will be $485.
D) If Richard expects to print 1200 pictures over the next year, printer A will be cheaper to own.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

To find the break-even point, calculate the total cost for each printer and compare them. Printer A's total cost is $190 + ($0.30 * number of prints), and Printer B's total cost is $285 + ($0.20 * number of prints). Solving for the number of prints where costs are equal gives 950 prints per year, or about 79 prints per month. If Richard averages less than 79 prints per month, Printer A will be cheaper.

Richard Is Attempting to Select a Photo Printer So He