Toshiba e-STUDIO 388CS
38ppm A4 Colour Multifunction Printer
Toshiba e-STUDIO 388CS rental, servicing and repair from Camelott®, with UK-wide support. Keep your 38ppm A4 colour machine working or choose from hundreds of quality used machines available to rent. Its standard 100-sheet single-pass scanner may still suit your paperwork; compare the newer 409CS if your requirements have changed.
Earlier A4 model: compare the newer Toshiba e-STUDIO 409CS. See what changed. Image: 338CS family illustration; the 388CS feeder and supplied configuration may differ.
The Toshiba e-STUDIO 388CS combines 38ppm A4 colour printing, copying, scanning and fax with a 100-sheet single-pass document feeder. Both sides of an original are captured without reversing it. Camelott® handles rental, servicing and repair enquiries across the UK, subject to equipment condition, suitable stock, parts and coverage. *Duplex scan ratings at 300dpi are up to 47ipm colour and 94ipm mono. For a new purchase or lease, compare the newer 409CS; any older-model purchase or lease remains subject to actual stock and terms.
Camelott® 360° view
A4 Colour with Useful Scanning Already Built In
The 388CS can still suit a team that needs A4 colour output and regularly handles double-sided originals. Its standard 100-sheet feeder captures both sides in one pass, so scanning is already a meaningful strength of the older model.
At 38ppm, it can handle correspondence, invoices and reports without an A3 chassis. The trade-offs are the 250-sheet main drawer, 150-sheet output tray and 105gsm automatic-duplex ceiling. Repeated long runs and assembled packs may need a different configuration.
For existing equipment, compare condition, maintenance and repair costs with the requirements it still covers. A newer machine may offer better-suited security, controls and capacity, but single-pass scanning alone is not a new feature compared with this model.
A newer multifunction alternative
388CS and 409CS: Where an Upgrade Can Help
| Feature | 388CS | Newer 409CS | Practical difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| A4 printing | 38ppm | 40ppm | Only about 8 seconds less theoretical engine time over 100 pages. |
| Original feeder | 100-sheet single-pass | 100-sheet single-pass | The older machine already captures both sides in one pass. |
| Duplex scan, colour / mono | 47 / 94ipm at 300dpi | 80 / 98ipm at 300 × 600dpi | Different published settings: test actual originals rather than claiming a precise speed multiplier. |
| Touchscreen | 4.3 inches | 7 inches | More screen area for users and configured workflows. |
| Main drawer / output | 250 / 150 sheets | 250 / 200 sheets | Base input stays the same; more output room on the newer model. |
| Maximum input | 1,451 sheets with options | 2,001 sheets with options | Specific compatible accessories are required. |
| Storage and security | HDD-based platform; confirm installed drive | 128GB ISD and TPM platform | Check encryption, authentication and secure erasure; not a standard 256GB secure-SSD claim. |
| Automatic duplex paper | 60–105gsm; A4/custom | 60–105gsm; A4/custom | The duplex stock limit does not increase. |
Assess the complete platform
The newer TPM provides dedicated protection for cryptographic keys. Combine it with users, firmware, network permissions, encryption and end-of-use erasure. Existing HDD storage does not mean the older machine has no security.
Separate speed from security
Flash storage removes a mechanical drive’s moving parts and can improve storage access. It is not inherently more secure than an encrypted HDD, and it does not raise rated print speed. Confirm the newer model’s installed ISD and functions.
Start with unworn components
New feed and transport components can help compared with an ageing, heavily used machine. Paper, loading and maintenance still affect jams and reliability; a fixed reduction is not guaranteed.
Check present and future requirements
A current platform may offer newer features and a longer remaining driver or firmware support horizon, but no fixed period is promised. Verify your operating systems, email authentication, scan destinations and licences.
Compare the Toshiba e-STUDIO 409CS. It is a newer current-range alternative; no manufacturer-announced replacement date or fixed support period is assumed.
Click the part you want to understand
Explore the e-STUDIO 388CS Part by Part
Select an area to see the specification, what it means in practice, and when it will—or will not—make a meaningful difference.
1. Single-pass scanning
100 Originals, with Both Sides Captured in One Pass
The 388CS already has a standard dual-scan feeder. A 94ipm headline is the mono duplex rating, not the colour speed.
Why this is useful
Accounts records, signed forms and double-sided case files can be captured without reversing each original. A larger feeder also reduces splitting longer batches.
What to weigh up
Completed-file time includes processing, network transfer and any separately specified searchable-file workflow. Check fragile originals and paper limits. The family illustration does not show the exact 388CS feeder.
2. Controls and storage
A Tilting 4.3-Inch Touchscreen on an HDD-Based Platform
The colour touchscreen and keypad support everyday copying, scan destinations and fax tasks.
Why this is useful
Named destinations and agreed settings can make regular tasks easier for staff. A useful maintained setup may matter more than replacing equipment just to obtain a larger screen.
What to weigh up
Confirm installed storage, encryption, private-print behaviour and secure disposal. Do not treat the 338CS’s optional-HDD specification as the 388CS configuration. The newer 409CS has a larger 7-inch panel and TPM platform.
3. Print and copy engine
38ppm A4 Colour for Shared Office Jobs
The 388CS combines print, copy, scan and fax in an A4 desktop system.
Why this is useful
A theoretical 100-page engine run takes about 2 minutes 38 seconds. This can suit correspondence and reports where A3 is unnecessary.
What to weigh up
Application processing, network, the first page, paper and duplex settings affect the real job. Sleep recovery is not cold-start warm-up. A newer 40ppm engine saves only about 8 seconds of theoretical engine time over 100 pages.
4. Manual feed and media
Keep Occasional Special Stock Separate
The base manual feed takes one sheet. An optional Duo-drawer adds a 100-sheet multipurpose supply alongside its cassette.
Why this is useful
An approved envelope or occasional special sheet can be fed without replacing the ordinary paper in the main drawer. Specify extra feeding only when it solves repeated work.
What to weigh up
The 100-sheet supply is optional. Check the exact stock, coating and settings. Feed support up to 176gsm is separate from the lower automatic-duplex limit.
5. Paper supply
250-Sheet Main Drawer, with Optional Expansion
The base drawer holds 250 sheets, plus a one-sheet manual feed. Maximum input requires the correct optional feeding combination.
Why this is useful
Extra supplies can keep letterhead or another supported paper ready and reduce loading interruptions. A smaller base configuration may be sufficient for lighter A4 use.
What to weigh up
A full ream will not fit in the standard drawer. The January 2020 brochure includes the manual slot in its 1,451-sheet maximum; an older UK sheet quotes 1,450. Confirm installed accessories and working space.
6. Output and finishing
150-Sheet Output for Loose-Page Collection
The 388CS collects loose pages. No inline automatic stapler, booklet maker or hole punch is listed for this platform.
Why this is useful
For occasional reports, hand-stapling or punching may be proportionate. Keep collection frequent enough that a long run does not fill the output tray.
What to weigh up
Repeated finished packs can justify a machine accepting the required attachments. A booklet layout does not physically fold or staple sheets. The newer model’s optional convenience stapler also needs staff to handle the output.
Photocopier terminology, explained by Bean
Confused by Photocopier Jargon?
Bean explains the terms without the technical waffle. Here is what the specifications mean for your working day.
- PPM — Pages Per Minute
- The engine’s rated page output. The 388CS prints A4 at up to 38ppm colour or mono. Processing, first-page response, stock and duplex settings affect the complete job.
- IPM — Images Per Minute
- Counts scanned sides: one double-sided original is two images. The 388CS duplex ratings are 47ipm colour and 94ipm mono at 300dpi. Upload and file processing add time.
- GSM — Grams Per Square Metre
- Paper weight per square metre. Approved feed stock reaches 176gsm, but automatic duplex is limited to 60–105gsm. Original-feeder stock has separate limits.
- MFP — Multifunction Printer
- Combines several office functions. The 388CS includes printing, copying, scanning and fax. Consider the tasks different staff may need at the same time.
- ADF — Automatic Document Feeder
- Feeds a stack of originals through the scanner. The 388CS holds 100 sheets. ADF capacity alone does not describe double-sided capture speed.
- DSDF — Dual Scan Document Feeder
- Captures both sides in one pass without reversing the original. The 388CS already includes this design; it is useful for signed records, invoices and case files.
- RADF — Reversing Automatic Document Feeder
- Scans one side and turns the original to capture the other. The 388CS uses a single-pass dual-scan feeder instead. Compare real scan rates and supported original types.
- DADF — Duplexing Automatic Document Feeder
- A feeder for double-sided originals. Check whether it reverses the sheets or captures both sides together. The 388CS uses the single-pass design.
- Duplex — Automatic Double-sided Printing
- Prints both sides without manual reloading. The 388CS supports approved 60–105gsm A4/custom paper. Double-sided scanning is a separate function.
- DPI — Dots Per Inch
- Resolution for printing or scanning. The 388CS lists up to 1200 × 1200dpi print and 600 × 600dpi scan resolution. Higher scan settings can make larger files.
- CPC — Cost Per Copy
- A service-agreement charge per printed or copied page. Ask about mono and colour rates, duplex counting, minimum billing, and the service or consumables included.
- FCOT — First Copy Out Time
- The first copy under manufacturer test conditions, approximately 8 seconds on the 388CS. A PC print job involves different processing; waking from sleep adds another stage.
- A4 / A3 — Paper Sizes
- A4 is 210 × 297mm; A3 is 297 × 420mm. The 388CS is an A4 platform. Choose suitable A3 equipment for larger originals, plans or folded A4 booklets.
- Booklet Maker — Folded, Stapled Booklets
- A compatible finisher folds sheets and staples along the fold. The 388CS has no listed inline booklet maker. A booklet print layout does not assemble the physical pages.
- Hole Punch — Pages Ready for Binders
- A compatible attachment punches printed sheets for folders. No automatic inline punch is listed for the 388CS. Regular binder packs may justify a suitable finishing platform.
- Corner Staple — Keep Each Set Together
- A staple near the corner holds a report together. The 388CS has no listed inline automatic stapler. Plan manual assembly or choose a compatible machine for repeated sets.
Specifications in real life
What the 388CS Figures Mean in Your Office
Useful when: Everyday colour reports and correspondence.
What to check: About 2 minutes 38 seconds of theoretical engine time for 100 pages; not total elapsed time.
Useful when: Longer double-sided original batches need capture.
What to check: Check original condition, loading and weight; processing and upload still matter.
Useful when: You need to understand colour and mono capture separately.
What to check: At 300dpi; 94ipm is mono, and IPM counts sides rather than sheets.
Useful when: Lighter A4 work makes the base supply sufficient.
What to check: A full ream will not fit; expansion is optional.
Useful when: Supported office documents are printed double-sided.
What to check: 176gsm feed support does not mean 176gsm automatic duplex.
Useful when: Jobs are collected regularly.
What to check: Extra input capacity does not increase the base output tray.
Think about the working day
Where Keeping or Renting a 388CS Can Make Sense
Keep a useful existing single-pass feeder
A maintained 100-sheet feeder can still cover double-sided records. Replacement should solve an actual bottleneck, fault or software requirement, not merely add initials already present on the old machine.
Use the relevant scan rating
Mono duplex reaches 94ipm, while colour duplex is 47ipm at 300dpi. For mixed case files, test the finished workflow using the colour settings you actually need.
Avoid paying for unused paper size
If all originals and output fit A4, a suitable compact unit may avoid the size and cost of an A3 chassis. Compare complete equipment and service proposals rather than assuming A4 always costs less to run.
Do not turn one scan figure into universal superiority
Some comparable compact A4 systems advertise around 56ipm duplex for both colour and mono. The 388CS’s colour and mono ratings differ. Test matching settings, original sizes and finished files.
Match optional supplies to repeated tasks
Keeping letterhead in an additional drawer may remove a recurring interruption. Maximum capacity alone does not describe the configuration supplied for rental.
Discuss what happens after printing
Occasional hand-stapled reports may be sensible. Repeated booklets, corner-stapled sets and punched packs need a different compatible platform.
Separate scanner and print-path symptoms
A line on scans, a feeder jam and a drawer misfeed can have different causes. State the function, original or paper used, tray, fault code and whether duplex work is affected.
Review the actual installed setup
Check users, private print, storage, encryption and erasure. Confirm current drivers, firmware, email authentication and destinations; do not rely on an old brochure’s retired cloud services.
Match the functions to the work
The 388CS Can Still Fit When...
It makes sense if you...
- Mainly use A4 and smaller supported formats
- Need colour and mono output at up to 38ppm
- Regularly scan double-sided original batches
- Value the standard 100-sheet single-pass feeder
- Can work with a 250-sheet drawer or specify extra feeding
- Can assemble occasional packs by hand
- Can confirm condition, current software and available support
We would compare alternatives if you...
- Need A3 originals or output
- Need automatic stapling, booklet making or hole punching
- Need heavier stock automatically duplexed above 105gsm
- Need a full-ream standard main drawer
- Have long unattended runs that exceed practical output collection
- Need security or software functions the supplied machine cannot provide
- Have recurring faults where replacement is the better overall proposal
Support for an earlier model
388CS Rental, Servicing & Repair Across the UK
Confirm suitable available equipment
Tell us your postcode, period, print use and scan batches. We confirm stock, condition, installed options, delivery, collection, service inclusions and terms.
Maintain equipment that still fits
Provide the meter reading, history and recurring symptoms. We confirm the support available for your location and actual equipment.
Describe the fault before replacing
Include fault codes, affected functions, tray and paper details. We assess the practical next step, parts position and repair scope before you agree the work.
Compare a newer configuration
For a new purchase or lease, compare the newer Toshiba 409CS. Any older-model purchase or lease remains subject to actual stock, condition and terms.
Make the proposal specific
Before Renting or Keeping a Toshiba 388CS
What work needs to be covered?
Confirm A4, colour, fax, scan batches and any future A3 or finishing requirement.
What is the actual machine condition?
Check meter reading, service history, repeated interruptions and the specific repair scope.
Which scan rate matters?
Test colour and mono originals at your required settings, including file creation and upload.
Which feeding options are supplied?
Check the base drawer, optional supplies and installed wireless; do not assume the maximum configuration.
Which stock needs automatic duplex?
Approved duplex paper is 60–105gsm; heavier feed support is a different limit.
Are security and storage correctly configured?
Confirm private print, users, storage encryption where supported, firmware and end-of-use erasure.
Does current software work?
Test the actual OS, driver, email authentication, folders and any separately licensed applications.
What is the full proposal?
Compare condition, accessories, delivery, service inclusions, rental or finance terms, CPC where applicable and total cost.
Technical specification
Toshiba e-STUDIO 388CS Specifications
| Specification | 388CS | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Functions | Print, copy, scan and fax | A4 colour multifunction platform. |
| A4 output | Up to 38ppm colour / mono | Separate from scan IPM. |
| Print / scan resolution | Up to 1200 × 1200 / 600 × 600dpi | Different functions and settings. |
| First print / first copy | Approximately 8 seconds | Separate manufacturer tests; not total PC-to-output time. |
| Sleep recovery | Approximately 16 seconds | Not cold-start warm-up. |
| Original feeder | Standard 100-sheet single-pass DSDF | A6–A4/custom; 52–120gsm. |
| Simplex scan, colour / mono | 30 / 60ipm at 300dpi | Single-sided original capture. |
| Duplex scan, colour / mono | 47 / 94ipm at 300dpi | 94ipm is the mono rating. |
| Main drawer | 250 sheets; A6–A4/custom | Approved 60–176gsm stock. |
| Base manual feed | One sheet; 60–176gsm | 76 × 127mm to 216 × 356mm. |
| Maximum input | 1,451 sheets with compatible options | January 2020 figure includes the slot; older UK sheet quotes 1,450. |
| Automatic duplex | A4/custom; 60–105gsm | Separate from the higher feed-stock limit. |
| Output tray | 150 sheets | Regular collection needed on longer runs. |
| Panel | 4.3-inch tilting colour touchscreen | 10.9cm diagonal. |
| RAM | 2GB standard; up to 6GB with option | Do not confuse RAM with document storage. |
| Storage | HDD-based platform | Confirm actual fitted drive, security and data-erasure setup. |
| Interfaces | Gigabit Ethernet; Hi-Speed USB 2.0 | Wireless LAN is optional. |
| Mobile printing | AirPrint and Mopria Print Service | Current device and network setup apply. |
| Base dimensions / weight | 442 × 507 × 462mm; approximately 27.4kg | Width × depth × height; accessories and working clearance add space. |
| Finishing | Loose-page output | No listed inline booklet maker, automatic stapler or punch. |
Checked against Toshiba’s UK series brochure, January 2020 manufacturer brochure and exact-model specifications. Rated capacities normally use A4 80gsm. Confirm the supplied machine, accessories, approved stock and current software. Newer-model scan figures use different published settings, so no direct speed multiplier is claimed.
Quality used machines on rental
Hundreds of Quality Used Machines Available to Rent
If repairing your 388CS no longer makes sense, we can help you choose a rental around your print runs, scan batches and finishing needs. Camelott® has hundreds of quality used photocopiers available to rent, including Toshiba e-STUDIO 15 and 05 series machines, Epson WorkForce Pro WF-C879R options and separate 60ppm Epson options. We will confirm the exact model, condition, accessories and availability in your proposal.
If you now need A3 documents or finished packs, ask us to match a rental to those jobs. Stapling, booklet-making and hole punching depend on the machine and installed finisher; they are not included on every option. For longer print runs, a suitable 60ppm machine may shorten waiting time, while a slower model may be sufficient for shorter jobs. The WF-C879R is a separate choice, not a 60ppm model.
Tell us your monthly volume, typical job length, scanning needs, postcode and rental period. We will explain the equipment and UK-wide service arrangements, including what is covered, before you choose.
Questions worth asking
Toshiba 388CS Rental, Repair & Replacement FAQ
Is the 388CS an earlier model?
Yes. Compare the newer Toshiba 409CS for a new-equipment proposal. Older does not automatically mean unsupported, unavailable or uneconomical to repair.
Can I rent a 388CS?
Ask about suitable stock. We confirm equipment condition, location, period, installed options, service inclusions and rental terms.
Do you provide UK-wide service and repair?
Camelott® handles UK-wide enquiries. Provide your postcode, meter reading, fault code and symptoms so we can confirm coverage, parts position and charges.
Does it have a single-pass feeder?
Yes. The 388CS has a standard 100-sheet dual-scan feeder. It captures both sides without reversing each original.
Does it scan colour at 94ipm?
No. At 300dpi, duplex ratings are 47ipm colour and 94ipm mono. IPM counts scanned sides, not sheets.
How does it differ from the 338CS?
Both are compact A4 colour multifunction systems, but the 388CS has 38ppm output and a 100-sheet single-pass feeder. The 338CS is 33ppm with a 50-sheet reversing feeder.
What changes on the newer 409CS?
It adds a 7-inch panel, TPM platform, 128GB ISD configuration and larger output and optional input capacities. Print speed rises from 38ppm to 40ppm; single-pass scanning already exists on the 388CS.
Are the scan speeds directly comparable?
The older figures use 300dpi; the newer brochure quotes 300 × 600dpi. Test actual originals, file processing and upload rather than claiming a precise multiplier.
Does a new machine guarantee fewer jams?
No. Unworn parts can help compared with a worn older unit, but paper, loading, maintenance and workload still matter.
Does the newer model include a 256GB secure SSD?
Do not assume that. The 409CS specification lists a 128GB Intelligent Storage Device and TPM platform. Check the supplied storage, encryption, access controls and data-erasure functions.
Has driver support ended?
An older brochure is not proof that support has ended. Check current manufacturer drivers and firmware for the exact systems and functions you use.
Can it duplex heavier stock?
Automatic duplex supports approved 60–105gsm A4/custom paper. The 176gsm feed limit does not apply to the complete automatic-duplex path.
How much paper is standard?
A 250-sheet main drawer and one-sheet manual feed. A 100-sheet bypass belongs to the optional Duo-drawer; maximum input requires compatible accessories.
Can it make booklets or punch pages automatically?
No inline booklet maker, automatic stapler or hole punch is listed for the 388CS. Regular finished packs need suitable compatible equipment.
Can I buy or lease a 388CS?
Any older-model purchase or lease depends on actual stock, condition and terms. Compare the newer 409CS for new equipment and the complete service proposal.
What helps with a repair enquiry?
Include postcode, meter reading, fault code, function, tray, paper or original details, and whether the issue occurs on duplex printing or scan feeding.
Interested in the 388CS?
Need 388CS Rental, Service or Repair?
Tell Camelott® your postcode, fault details or rental period. We will check the practical next step and support available. If scanning or other requirements have grown, compare the newer Toshiba e-STUDIO 409CS.