Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

What is the Print Center?

For more than 30 years, the Print Center has been part of PCC’s auxiliary services. What began as the Graphics Services department has grown with technology into the full-service print shop we are today.

We proudly serve the entire PCC district, including administration, faculty, staff, and students, as well as our surrounding community.

Our services include:

  • Printing and finishing for a wide variety of projects
  • Publishing literary magazines and creating promotional materials
  • Managing and fulfilling printer/copier leases and purchases
  • Supplying paper and printer products for departments and groups across the district
Who can use the Print Center services?

Our services are available to PCC faculty, staff, administration, and students—as well as customers from the surrounding community. Whether you need support for school-related projects or personal printing.

What are the Print Center hours?

The Print Center operates Monday – Friday 7am – 4pm. We are closed on weekends, observed holidays, and during campus wide closures.

Summer and Winter break hours will be posted as decided.

What is the turn-around on orders?

Turnaround Times Our production timelines depend on the number of orders in the queue and current workload. Times may be shorter or longer depending on demand. Please call us before placing your order to confirm current availability.

Typical turnaround times:

  • Everyday printing: 3–5 business days
  • Large quantity, wide-format, or complex orders: 5–10 business days
  • Projects requiring special-order materials or outside completion: 15–20 business days

Important notes:

  • Turnaround times do not include the time needed to transfer projects between campuses.
  • For projects with urgent deadlines, please call to check if we can accommodate a quicker turnaround.

Contact us: 977-722-4670

What is considered everyday printing?

Everyday printing covers simple, straightforward jobs such as:

  • Black-and-white or color prints
  • Basic finishing (stapling, drilling, or cutting)

These projects are typically under 1,000 impressions.

  • Impressions = the number of original pages in your document × the number of copies needed.
Is there a Print Center location on all campuses? Where are you located?

There is only one Print Center location. We are located at Sylvania Campus, CC building room 116 (entrance is on the outside of the building).

Who do I contact for Print Center questions?

Who to Contact

  • General Print Questions
    📞 Call: 971-722-4670
    📧 Email: printcen@pcc.edu
  • Bookstore Materials
    📧 Email: printcen@pcc.edu (For questions or to request a new file number for materials)
  • Printer Support
    For technical issues with printers, printer supplies, or Panther Print machines:
    📞 Contact Ed Phillips: 503-929-5537
  • Copier ID Requests
    For Copier ID issues, updates, creation, or removal:
    📞 Contact Tommy Bailey 🌐 Visit the Copier ID page to submit the appropriate form
  • Ordering, Removing, or Moving a Printer
    Panther Print Program | Print Center at PCC

Important Note Some requests may need to be submitted by your IAA or department Dean to ensure the correct account is assigned to your profile.

Is there a minimum order?

The Print Center has a $5 minimum order requirement. This helps cover overhead and labor costs.

For small print jobs, we recommend using your office printer whenever possible. It’s often more cost-effective for your department.

How much will my project cost? Can I request an Estimate?

Our new system gives you access to real-time estimates and costs for your print projects.

How it works:

  1. Preview estimates before ordering
    • Set up your print order through the Web Desk.
    • Save it as a Quote to review costs.
  2. Place your order
    • When you’re ready, load your saved estimate and submit it as an order.
  3. Special requests
    • If your project requires settings or materials not available in the system, email us with a detailed description.
    • Our team will create a custom estimate for you.
      📧 Contact: printcen@pcc.edu
Does the Print Center offer design services?

The Print Center does not currently provide graphic design services or have a designer on staff.

For assistance with design needs, please contact Marketing and Communications at PCC. They can help with creating and preparing your materials.

Can the Print Center complete my project while I wait?

Turnaround depends on our current workload and the type of project you need. Because we are often managing large or multiple jobs, we are generally unable to pause production to complete orders while you wait.

For quick, simple document prints, it is usually faster and more cost-effective to use a self-service machine.

The Print Center is part of the college, does “Fair Use” apply to your services?

The Print Center is funded by the projects we produce, including many from outside the college. Because of this, we operate as a for-profit venue and cannot claim Fair Use—even for educational purposes.

This means we are unable to duplicate works unless:

  • The material is in the public domain, or
  • You provide written permission or a license from the author/publisher.

For questions about copyright, please visit the PCC Copyright Committee website or email: copyright@pcc.edu.

I have a single license for a workbook/textbook, can I print copies from it?

Licensing rules for workbooks and textbooks, especially digital licenses, can vary. First and foremost, it’s important to follow the conditions outlined in your user agreement. The user agreement overrides the conditions below.

  • Personal-use licenses: If your license is for personal use, we may be able to print one copy for your own use. Multiple copies are not permitted. You will need to provide proof of purchase, showing your license for the content.
  • Instructor licenses: Instructor licenses are typically more restrictive. They may include rules about:
    • How many copies can be made
    • The time period the license covers
    • How materials can be shared or altered

What you need to do: Please review your user agreement and provide us with a copy of the license details. This ensures we can follow the correct conditions before printing.

Does the Print Center offer shredding services?

We do not. FMS may offer these services, please contact Facilities Management.

Does the Print Center offer scanning services?

Capacity:

  • We are unable to handle large-scale scanning projects.
  • Small projects of about 20–30 sheets can be accommodated.
  • Maximum size: 11 × 17 inches.

Costs:

  • $7.50 setup fee per project
  • $0.50 per side (color)
  • $0.05 per side (black & white)

Turnaround:

  • Scanning projects cannot be completed while you wait.

Alternatives:

  • Self-service machines are available across campus.
  • These machines can scan directly to USB or email, often faster for quick needs.
Does the Print Center have an on-site self-service area with an accessible computer?

The Print Center does not provide public access computers for self-service.

However, every PCC campus has locations with public access computers available for use. To access these machines, you will need a Copier ID.

Copier IDs and shared networked devices | Print Center at PCC

What is a Copier ID and how can I request one?

To use PCC’s networked Xerox devices, you will need a Copier ID linked to your department’s accounts.

  • Individual assignment: Each Copier ID is assigned to one person for PCC-specific printing.
  • Accountability: Copy codes report billing directly to your department’s account manager.
  • Security: Do not share your Copier ID. Sharing may result in your account being audited for print abuse.

Requesting a Copier ID Because Copier IDs are tied to the accounts, your department’s IAA or Dean must submit the request to ensure the correct account is assigned.

To look up a Copier ID, please contact Tommy Bailey

I have a copy of a book with no binding that I want to be bound, can you bind my book?

We can provide coil binding and perfect binding for most books that do not already have a binding.

  • Some customers choose to have the spine cut off their existing book so that coil binding can be added.
  • If a book is too large to bind as a single volume, we will ask you to select a split point so the book can be bound in two or more parts.
I have some posters or small papers that I want to have laminated or cut, can you do that?

Size limits:

  • We can laminate materials up to 24 inches wide.
  • Our cutting machine can safely trim down to 2 inches.

Material restrictions:

  • Our laminator uses heat to seal sheets.
  • We cannot laminate heat-sensitive materials.
  • We do not recommend laminating irreplaceable items, as damage cannot be undone.

Quality note:

  • While we take care to avoid wrinkles or damage, we cannot replace or compensate for items that are harmed during the process.
When is the new free academic calendar going to be available?

The academic calendar starts in June; the calendars are usually released in May.

Ordering

How can I place an order?

On our Order Desk System. Set up your profile – allow 24-48 hours for account activation.
Then place your order through the New Order process, Template process, or through the Online Store.

How do I order?

You can access the Order Desk by signing in with your PCC Directory login.
Once your account is activated, you’ll have access to:

  • Print Orders
  • Business Card and Name Tag Templates
  • Store items
    Such as Panther Print Papers, custom paper orders, academic calendars, and PCC swag

How to place an order:

  1. Sign in with your PCC Directory login.
  2. Choose the project type you need.
  3. Walk through the order form from top to bottom for the smoothest experience.
What information do I need before placing my order?

Before placing an order, please have the following details ready:

  • Number of originals: How many pages are in your document.
  • Number of finished copies: How many complete sets you need.
  • Paper type: The kind of paper you’d like your project printed on.
  • Color options:
    • Print in grayscale or color.
    • If mixed, specify which pages should be in color and which in grayscale.
  • Finishing needs: Any extras such as stapling, drilling, or cutting.

The Order Desk System will guide you through and suggest the best settings for your specific project.

Can I email my print orders?

Unfortunately, no, we cannot accept print orders through email.

Please submit your orders using the Order Desk System from our Website.

Do I need to submit an order for every project, even re-orders?

An order must be submitted for us to process your project, track its progress, and bill once it is completed.

Order Desk Features:

  • Access your printing history through your profile
  • Submit re-orders of past projects when needed

Important Note on Pricing: Re-order prices may differ from those shown in your job history. Prices are updated each fiscal year and reflect current market costs for materials.

Is there a way I can submit multiple documents with one order?

Our new order system can accept multiple documents in a single order.

If you do not want your documents combined into one packet, please submit them as separate orders. Order system now allows you to create multiple orders easily, allowing you to skip some steps.

Is there a way I can submit one document to be resized for multiple finished products on one order?

Simple projects: Yes, you can submit related projects together—for example, a 24×36 poster and the same file scaled down to quarter-sheet fliers (4.25×5.5). Please note that a processing fee will apply.

Complex projects: If your projects have different requirements or need significant adjustments, they must be submitted as separate orders.

Sizing limitations:

  • The Print Center will not distort files to fit sizes that are not proportional.
  • If a large print does not scale correctly to a smaller size, you may see uneven borders or need additional trimming.
I have physical copies of a project I want done; can I place an order when I drop it off?

Preferred method: Please complete an online order first, then drop off your physical copy.

If online ordering isn’t possible: We can assist you with submitting the order at the main office.

Important: Be sure to have your Cost Center or account information ready when placing your order.

Can I request a special paper or option that is not on the order form?

Whether we can use a specific product depends on the request. Some materials:

  • Cannot be run on our machines
  • Are more costly than standard options
  • May be difficult to source reliably from vendors

Please contact us first to discuss your options before placing an order. This ensures we can confirm availability and recommend the best solution for your project.

I did not receive a confirmation email for my order, did it send?

Confirmation emails: Our system automatically sends emails for quotes and project confirmations.

  • If you don’t see the email, check your spam/junk folder.
  • If it’s not there, sign in to the Order Desk and verify that your contact information is correct in your profile.

Order history: You can review all submitted orders by visiting the “My Orders” section in the Order Desk.

Document Set Up

Is there a preferred file type I should submit?

We prefer print-ready PDF files for the best results.

Other formats are accepted, but PDFs ensure the most accurate output.

Please review our walkthrough for  Creating Print-Ready Documents to make sure your files are prepared correctly.

We prefer print-ready PDF files, but we do accept many other formats. Please review our walkthrough for

Why do you prefer PDF files?

Why We Recommend PDF Files

  • Higher quality: PDF files retain sharper print quality.
  • Stable formatting: PDFs usually keep the layout consistent, even when opened on different computers.

Other file types (Word, Excel, Publisher, PowerPoint, Google Docs):

  • Formatting may shift when sent to another computer.
  • Differences in user settings, fonts, or assets can cause content to move or change.

Best practice:

  • Always convert your file to a PDF before submitting.
  • If you have a set of PowerPoint slides, please print/save them as a PDF in the format you want before placing your order.
  • Review the PDF carefully to ensure nothing shifted during conversion, especially if margins are tight in Microsoft or Google programs.
I have an InDesign or Illustrator document; can I send that?

InDesign and Illustrator do not embed fonts or linked assets directly into the file. Instead, they reference those items from your computer.

If we do not have access to the linked files or fonts, we cannot open or print your document without risking damage to the layout.

To avoid this issue, please either:

  • Export your file as a PDF (preferred), or
  • Package your file and send us the entire folder containing all assets and fonts.

For step-by-step instructions, please review our walkthrough for Creating Print-Ready Documents.

Can I use programs like Canva to make my files?

Yes, we can print Canva files, but please make sure your document is a print layout, set to American paper sizes.

  • Canva is excellent at creating digital content. Digital content does not always translate well to printed materials.
  • Canva is an international company, and many of their templates default to international paper sizes.
  • These sizes are not proportional to the American paper sizes we carry.
  • If your document is not adjusted, prints may have uneven borders, require trimming, or cost more.

Before submitting, edit your document’s page size to match one of the standard American sizes we stock.

Canva Walkthrough

Do you have recommended page margins?

Standard prints (smaller than 11″ × 17″) Use margins of at least 0.25″ to 0.5″ around the page.

Posters (larger than 11″ × 17″) Increase margins to 1″ to 2″, depending on the size of your print.

How do I set up my document to have bleeds?

Bleed: Set a bleed of at least 0.125″ around the entire page.

  • This extra area will be trimmed off to create a borderless finished product.

Margins: Keep all text and images within the recommended margins (see margin guidelines above).

  • This ensures important content stays clear of the cutting area.

For a visual example, please see our Pocket Guide, which shows how bleeds and margins work together.

Do I have to do something special when saving for a document with a bleed?

Yes. When saving your document as a PDF, please make sure to:

  • Include bleeds as they are set up in your document.
  • Add crop marks so the trimming area is clearly defined.

For step-by-step instructions, please review our walkthrough for Creating Print-Ready Documents.

What is the standard size for <insert project here>?

There are no universal “standard sizes” for items like fliers—what one person calls a flier may be very different to another.

To help guide your project, please review our sizing guide for common options and ideas.

What is the recommended paper for <insert project here>?

Text Weight Paper

  • Lighter paper, ideal for most everyday printing needs.
  • Common uses: books, fliers, handouts, and general documents.

Cover Weight Paper

  • Thicker, sturdier paper designed for durability.
  • Best for items that will be handled frequently or need to last.
  • Common uses: business cards, postcards, bookmarks, and covers.
I have multiple documents, but I want them printed together for one packet. Do you want all documents separately or is there a way to put them together?

For the smoothest processing, please combine all your files into a single print-ready PDF before submitting your order.

  • Using Adobe Acrobat: If you have access to Adobe Acrobat, you can easily combine multiple files into one PDF.
  • Need help? If you’re unsure how to combine files in Acrobat or another application, please review our walkthrough on Combining Files and Creating Print-Ready Documents.
Should I insert blank pages to my document as placeholders for the backs of covers, dividers, or section breaks?

Single-Sided and Double-Sided Printing

Our machines can customize your document so that:

  • Some pages are single-sided while others are double-sided
  • Some pages are printed in color while others are in grayscale

Important notes:

  • We do not require a blank page on the back of the front cover.
  • To make your packet read smoothly, we recommend adding blank pages at the end of chapters if needed.
  • If you choose to remove blanks and still want certain pages single-sided, please provide us with a list of the exact PDF page numbers that should be single-sided.

Pickup & Delivery

Where do I go to pick up my order(s)?

Order Delivery Locations

  • Main campuses (Sylvania, Southeast, Cascade, Rock Creek): Orders will be delivered to the campus bookstore.
  • All other centers and locations: Orders will be sent through intercampus mail and delivered to the designated mail delivery locations.
Can I request my projects be delivered to my department?

We can send projects through intercampus mail.

  • Please note: delivery is not guaranteed directly to your department.
  • Allow additional time for these requests to be processed and delivered.
Can I have my project mailed to me?

We can send certain projects using UPS.

  • The shipping cost will be billed with your project.
  • If your department does not approve the shipping charges, the cost must be paid out of pocket.
Do you have an afterhours pickup location?

We do not have an afterhours pickup location.

There used to be Print Pickup rooms on every campus, what happened to those?

We do not currently use those locations for project deliveries. At this time, they are designated primarily for supplies storage.

What does “Will Call” mean?

Your project will be held at our Sylvania Campus office (CC 116).

  • Projects are stored securely at this location.
  • You may pick up your order directly from our office during business hours.

Paying for Your Project

Can I use my student print account funds at the Print Center?

At this time, we do not have the ability to charge student print accounts for projects.

Can you look up the Account number I need to bill my project to?

We do not have the ability to look up which accounts you are permitted to use for print projects.

Please speak with your department’s IAA or Dean to confirm which account you should use. Once you have that information, let us know and we will program your printing account to provide access.

When will my project be billed to the account provided?

Project Billing Process

Monthly billing cycle: Our accounts specialist pulls data once a month for all projects marked complete during that date range.

  • If your project is not marked complete within that timeframe, it will be billed in the next cycle.

P-Card or out-of-pocket payments: These are processed as soon as the project is completed.

  • A payment link and invoice will be sent to the email address provided on your order.
We are trying to keep track of our account spending; can you provide us with costs for each order?

Order Costs: To view the costs for your orders, go to “My Orders” in the Web Desk.

Department Managers / IAAs: If you’d like to track all orders by account number, please contact us.

  • We can set up your profile as an Admin/Contact for the account(s).
  • This allows you to review orders or even require approval for projects submitted through that account.
As an external institution/company. Are you able to invoice us for the project?

Invoice & Payment Information

We can provide an invoice for your project. To set this up, please provide:

  • Institution/Company name
  • Billing address
  • Billing contact name
  • Email address (invoices are sent by email; we do not mail paper invoices)

Payment details:

  • Most invoices are Net 30.
  • A payment link will be included in the email with your invoice.
  • If you prefer to pay by check, please contact us to discuss the process.

Bookstore Materials

What is the bookstore materials process?

Bookstore Printing Process

A detailed walkthrough of the bookstore process can be viewed here: Bookstore Process

Steps to submit your materials:

  1. Request a file number
    • Contact the Print Center by email to request a file number for your packet.
      Printcen@pcc.edu
    • Your packet’s document does not need to be print-ready at this stage.
  2. Submit your adoption request
    • Send your adoption request to the bookstore.
  3. Submit your print-ready document
    • Upload your final document to the Print Center using the Bookstore Materials project type in the Web Desk.
What are the deadlines?

Bookstore Deadlines (Deadlines are subject to change—these are general timelines)

  • Fall Term
    • Adoption Request to Bookstore: May
    • Print-Ready Document to Print Center: Week of July 4th
  • Winter Term
    • Adoption Request: 1st Week of October
    • Document to Print Center: Week of October 31st
  • Spring Term
    • Adoption Request: 2nd Week of January
    • Document to Print Center: First Week of February
  • Summer Term
    • Adoption Request: 1st Week of April
    • Document to Print Center: First Week of May

Note: If you are reusing a packet from a previous term, you only need to submit an adoption request to the bookstore for each term you plan to continue using that packet.

Can I submit my adoption requests later in the term?

We recommend trying to meet the deadlines provided. These timelines are set to allow for:

  • Processing of textbook orders with publishers
  • Machine setup at the Print Center
  • Accurate reporting of costs for students receiving federal grants/aid and scholarships

Tips for getting started:

  • You do not need to wait until the term when the packet will be used.
    • Request your file number early—even a couple of terms ahead—to get a head start.
  • A final list of CRNs is not required right away.
    • Begin the process, then add or remove classes as needed.
  • It is always easier for us to cancel an order than to request one later in the term.
I have edits or a new edition of a packet, can I just update the document and keep the file?

The bookstore keeps the leftover copies in stock for file numbers with active adoptions. They will continue to sell all existing copies before requesting new prints.

If you have any edits or new editions of a packet, you will need to request a new file number.

I have a packet that has content from other publications (images and pages), can I offer it through the bookstore?

The Print Center is not permitted to duplicate copyrighted content without a copy of a written release for that material—even if the publication is out of print.

Because the Print Center and Bookstore are for‑profit entities, we cannot claim fair use for any materials we produce.

We recommend using materials that are:

  • Created by you
  • Open Educational Resources (OER)
I have an ISBN for a book that I want the bookstore to carry, how do I order for my classes?

Using ISBNs for Bookstore Adoptions

  • If you have an ISBN for a book or materials packet:
    • It is most likely already in the bookstore database, or
    • It may need to be ordered from the publisher by the bookstore.

In either case, simply place your adoption request through the bookstore.

What are the best options for a low-cost packet for the students?

Tips to Keep Packet Costs Low

  • Break up multi-term classes Assemble smaller packets for each term. Students may not take every class, so this avoids unnecessary costs.
  • Limit color printing Black ink prints cost about $0.09 per impression, compared to $0.40–$0.50 per impression in color.
  • Reduce add-ons Extras such as tabs, index inserts, and acrylic covers add costs that do not decrease with larger quantities.
  • Choose economical binding Book padding and perfect binding are the most affordable bindery options.
Do I have to go through this process every term, or can I use the same packet for multiple terms?

Reusing Packets

If your materials packet does not change or need edits, you do not need to repeat the packet setup process each term.

👉 Simply set your existing packet as the adoption for all classes that will be using the content, for as long as the materials remain unchanged.

Please note: You will still need to submit your adoptions for each term in which the content will be used.

What should I do if my department has a packet that multiple instructors use?

Universal Packets & File Numbers

One file number per group: A single individual should request one file number for the entire group to use when printing the packet.

Why universal packets matter:

  • Using the same packet across multiple classes helps reduce costs and minimize waste.
  • If one class creates a custom cover for a packet with the same inner pages used by other classes, that packet becomes unique to that class only.
  • Unused copies of the custom packet cannot be sold to students in other classes, and the bookstore will need to order additional copies of the universal packet.
  • If the class with the custom packet is cancelled, those materials will most likely be considered waste.

Best practices:

  • Avoid custom covers and extra pages that could easily be provided as handouts in class.
  • Work with fellow instructors to create universal packets that serve multiple classes.
Does an adoption need to be set up for all CRNs or just one class?

Adoptions for Multiple Classes

If a group of classes will be using the same materials, you can arrange an adoption for all CRNs under that class number to use the same packet.

If you only arrange adoption for one CRN, the bookstore will order copies based solely on that CRN’s enrollment.

  • Other CRNs that do not request the materials will not have enough copies to cover their students.

To ensure all students have access, please adopt the packet for all classes using the materials.

Why shouldn’t I request the student copies when I submit my document to the Print Center?

Instructor Copies Policy

Request only what you need: Instructor copies should be limited to the number required, as the project order will be billed to your department’s budget.

Student copies: You are not permitted to request student copies on behalf of the bookstore, since you do not have access to their budget.

  • Once your adoptions are submitted, the bookstore will order student copies based on:
    • Enrollment for the CRNs on file
    • Current stock levels
    • Whether the packet is marked “Required” or “Optional”

Over-ordering: If you request more instructor copies than needed, the excess will be billed to your department. The bookstore will not transfer funds to cover those copies.

No instructor copies needed: If you do not require instructor copies, simply write “submitting document only, no print needed” in the notes section of the order form.

Why should I offer a printed version of my packet through the bookstore?

Printed Packets for Equity & Accessibility

Offering a printed version of your packet helps create a more equitable experience for students.

  • Not all students learn in the same way.
  • Some have difficulty focusing or absorbing information through an e‑reader or computer screen.
  • Others may not have regular access to a device capable of reading the book.

To support all learners, we recommend giving students the option to purchase a printed version of your packet by offering it as Optional through the bookstore.

I have an OER, why can’t the students just print directly from the Print Center or from a lab?

Student Printing & OER Materials

While the Print Center can print Open Educational Resources (OER), it is generally not recommended for several reasons:

Limited lab printing: Student printing in labs is restricted to small quantities—often less than a single chapter. The Print Center does not have access to student printing accounts.

Higher costs: Students are often unfamiliar with the costs of printing directly with us.

  • A single book usually does not qualify for the quantity discounts available through the bookstore.
  • Many requests involve setups that are not economical (e.g., all color printing).

Financial aid restrictions: Students cannot use financial aid funding or bookstore accounts through the Print Center. We do not have access to these funds.

Longer timelines: Turnaround is typically 5–10 business days, while the bookstore often keeps a few copies on hand for immediate student access.

Additional communication needs: If students come directly to us, we often need to contact them for project details. This can be difficult with class schedules and our limited hours.

Please remember: We are a small team of five serving the entire district and surrounding community. For most students, the bookstore is the faster, more cost-effective option.

Key Terms & Responsibilities

File Number

  • Assigned by the Print Center to each material packet.
  • Provided to the bookstore when submitting adoption requests.
  • Not the same as an ISBN.

Adoption Request

  • Submitted to the bookstore for materials.
  • Must include all CRNs using the packet.
  • Required every term.
  • The Print Center does not have access to this database and cannot submit requests for you.

ISBN

  • Generated by the bookstore using the file number.
  • Functions as a call number/item number in their inventory and point-of-sale system.
  • The Print Center only uses the file number portion.

🖨️ Duties by Role

Role Responsibilities
Print Center Assign file numbers, archive documents & print setups, print student copies requested by the bookstore
Bookstore Receive adoption requests, assess enrollment by CRNs, track inventory, order student copies as needed
Instructor/Dept Request file number (if needed), submit adoption requests by deadline, submit print-ready PDF to Print Center, request instructor copies via Project Order Form
🎓 Student Copies
  • Ordered by the bookstore from the Print Center.
  • Sold to students through the bookstore.
  • Students can use financial aid/FAFSA accounts for purchase.
  • Instructors/departments are not permitted to request student copies on behalf of the bookstore.

Panther Print & Equipment Requests

How do I order a printer for my department?

Fill out and submit the “Lease or Purchase a Printer” form on our website.

How do I add, remove, or change a printer from my department?

Fill out and submit the “A.R.C. (Add, Remove, Change) Printer” form on our website.

Can I opt out of the Panther Print Program?

Mandatory Program Participation

Unfortunately, participation in this program is mandatory. The PCC Cabinet and Board of Directors have identified it as a significant cost-saving initiative for the college. These savings are intended to help prevent future employee layoffs and tuition increases.

Note: While the program is expected to save the college a substantial amount overall, some individual departments may not immediately see cost reductions. Departments can help mitigate their costs by implementing some of these energy-saving tips for printing.

How does this program save us money?

The Panther Print Program was created to give PCC greater transparency and control over printing processes and costs.

Program Benefits:

  • Saves time and money by automating supply ordering
  • Improves printing security
  • Increases sustainability
  • Uses a single vendor, allowing PCC to:
    • Predict costs for printing, service, and supplies
    • Free up valuable IT resources to focus on PCC’s strategic goals

Cost Savings for Departments:

  • Everyday printing and small projects done through your department printer or a self-service printer can save 10–50% per impression.
  • For larger orders, we recommend using the Print Center whenever possible.
What benefits are included in the program?

When you pay for copies and prints, the following benefits are covered:

  • Quick service if your device breaks, regardless of make or model
  • All 8.5×11″ white and pastel copy paper
  • All toner and device parts
  • Delivery of all device supplies (toner, replacement parts, and paper)
  • Recycling program for used toner cartridges and device supplies
  • Lower self-service prices per impression
How do I order paper?

Included with Panther Print/Fleet

To order paper that is covered under the Panther Print Program:

  1. Go to the Order Desk
  2. Select New Order > Store
  3. Choose Category: Print Center, Panther Print

Custom or Specialty Papers

For papers not included in the Panther Print Program (e.g., custom or specialty papers):

  1. Go to the Order Desk
  2. Select New Order > Store
  3. Choose Category: Print Center, Paper
What types of paper are included in the program?

The Panther Print Program covers:

  • Letter size (8.5″ × 11″)
  • 20# bond paper
  • White and pastel-colored papers only
What should I do with my used toner/ink cartridges?

Always recycle empty toner, ink cartridges, and waste bins.

For ease of access:

  • Store empty cartridges in a safe location.
  • Request pickup by contacting Ed Phillips at: ed.phillips2@pcc.edu

Drop-off locations:

  • Sylvania Campus: Drop box located just outside the Print Center
  • Other Centers: Recycling boxes available at the front desk
Where are the public access printers located?

 

Campus/Center Location/Room Color Capable
Sylvania CC 110 ✅ Yes
SS 201 ❌ No
CT 219 ❌ No
Cascade PSEB 133 ❌ No
Terrell Hall (2nd Floor Hallway) ✅ Yes
TEB 102 (Copy Room) ✅ Yes
Jackson Hall (behind 210) ❌ No
Jackson Hall 209 ❌ No
Rock Creek Bldg 2, Room 219 ✅ Yes
Southeast Mt Scott 100 (Copy Room) ✅ Yes
Student Commons (116 Hallway) ❌ No
CLIMB Center Room 112 ✅ Yes
OMIC Staff Room/Copy Room ✅ Yes
Swan Island Trades Center Room 106 ✅ Yes
Willow Creek Opportunity Ctr 2nd Floor, Room 227 ✅ Yes
How much time does a new printer order take?

Turnaround times for fulfilling a printer request can vary, as several factors may affect the process:

  • Printer capabilities – Matching the right device to your department’s needs
  • Price negotiations – Lease or purchase agreements may take time to finalize
  • Availability – Ensuring printers that meet your requirements are in stock or accessible

Because of these variables, turnaround times are not always predictable.

Basic Printer Troubleshooting

Who should I call for help with a machine?

For the quickest printer assistance, call Ed Phillips: 503-929-5537

The printer is not printing.

Printer Troubleshooting Checklist

Before calling for service, try these quick steps:

  1. Power cycle the printer
    • Power it off and back on (allow time for a full shutdown).
  2. Check supplies
    • Verify the printer has enough paper, toner, and a waste cartridge.
  3. Look for paper jams
    • Most machines will display an error if a jam is detected.
  4. Check the print queue
    • For shared printers, check the queue on the printer itself, not just your computer.
    • Often, a single document can block the entire queue.
  5. Note error messages
    • If the machine displays an error code or message, write it down.
    • Call Ed Phillips at 503‑929‑5537 and provide the details.
The printer keeps jamming.

Tips to Avoid Paper Jams

Most paper jams happen due to user error. Here are some best practices to help prevent them:

Use certified paper

  • Only use paper types approved for your printer.
  • Do not use inkjet stock in a laser printer.
  • Avoid printing transparency film on a laser printer—these can melt inside the machine and require technical repair.

Use the correct tray

  • Heavier paper and labels should be loaded into the bypass tray.
  • Be mindful of the limits on how heavy a paper the printer can safely handle.

Load paper neatly

  • Place paper in the tray evenly.
  • Adjust the guides so they rest against the paper—snug, but not too tight.

Select the correct paper settings

  • Ensure the paper size and weight selected in the tray settings match the paper being used.
  • Printers will attempt to run whatever they are programmed for; incorrect settings can cause jams or misfeeds.
The printer is not accepting my copy code.

If your CopyID is not working, here are some potential causes to check:

Correct code

  • Double-check that you are using the correct code.
  • You should have received an email with the code that was assigned.

Inactive code

  • If you have not used your code for more than a term, it may have been deactivated.
  • A new code request will need to be submitted by your IAA or department dean.

Department changes

  • If you recently moved departments, your old code may have been deactivated to prevent charges from going to the wrong account.
  • A new code or reassignment must be requested by your IAA or dean in your new department.

Shared codes

  • If you are using a code shared by a colleague who is no longer with the college or department, that code was likely deactivated.
  • Sharing codes is against policy—please do not share your CopyID.

A CopyID is linked to your department’s Cost Center account. Your department IAA or dean must submit requests to ensure the correct Account is assigned to your ID.

To look up a CopyID, please contact Tommy Bailey