I've been wondering about the feasability of the following as a
home-based business idea.
At the courthouse where I work, there are constant requests for
copies of papers from court files. The papers are usually standard 8 1/2
X 11", with occasional 11 X 14 sheets. There are no arrangements for
immediate transmission of copies. Either one must order by something like
FEDEX, or send someone in to get the copies, and then take them to an
outside fax. The courthouse has fax machines, but will not fax documents,
and has no current arrangements to accept credit cards.
I'm thinking that, if I got a Linux-based laptop with a built in
scanner, with a cell phone/fax attachment, I could make copies, and
transmit them countrywide, maybe even worldwide. The cell phone/fax would
have to be able to work indoors in an area difficult to use a standard
cell phone in, due to being the ground floor of a three story building,
and the room having about a dozen aluminum frame structures to store
court file folders in. One would operate roughly 15 feet in front of
these, so I don't know how much of an interference they'd be. I do know
that some cell phone users have to step into the hall to speak and hear
on their cell phones.
The scanner would have to be industrial strength, to handle making
about 750 copies a week. I would basically scan in and transmit the paper
images, either by fax or e-mail. Probably fax would be best, so as not to
congest email bandwith.
I'd probably accept credit card orders with something set up with a
www web site. Don't know what else I'd need.
I know that the courthouse will go to having papers on computer and
available via internet in "a couple of years". The computer will be
phased in by then, and I suppose new files will be that way, but older
files may be a while before they are converted.
I would probably try and handle the Hillsborough area at first, then
consider expanding to Pinellas, and maybe Pasco, to try handling the
entire Tampa Bay area.
Any thoughts about needed equipment, costs, etc.? I'd probably want
the best batteries, too, maybe nickel-metal-hydride?
Frank Starr
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