Specifications

Network Users
A printer that will be shared among many users needs more horsepower and more features than a
printer meant for a single user. Some features from the SOHO checklist are repeated here, but the
emphasis here is on helping you get a printer that’s meant to be shared among all types of users.
For inkjet printers, I recommend that you purchase a printer with the following features:
■ Separate ink cartridges for each color. This enables you to replace only the color that runs out.
■ A print resolution of 720×1440dpi, 1200dpi, or above.
■ A speed of at least 10ppm (pages per minute) for black and 6ppm for color.
■ A parallel port or USB port and an Ethernet port (standard or optional).
■ True PDL or escape-sequence printer control. This should not be host-based.
Tip
If the printer is designed for use only with Windows, it’s usually not networkable.
■ Can be networked.
■ Supports all networks and operating systems used in office.
Desirable options include:
■ Photorealistic features (if you print photos).
■ High-speed black ink cartridges for extra speed.
■ Envelope feeder.
■ Duplexing capability. Printing on both sides of the paper makes creating double-sided originals
very simple and saves paper.
For laser printers, I recommend that you purchase a printer with the following features:
■ A true print resolution of 600dpi or above
■ 12ppm or higher print speeds
■ PCL 5 or above (true or a good emulation)
■ Supports all networks and operating systems in your office
■ At least 8MB of RAM or above (installed at factory or field-upgradable)
■ A parallel port and an Ethernet port (standard or optional)
■ High-capacity paper trays
Desirable options include
■ USB port option (for easy movement between PCs)
■ Modular paper trays for adding extra capacity
■ Envelope feeder
■ Duplexing capability. Printing on both sides of the paper makes creating double-sided originals
very simple and saves paper.