Re: [OT] Printer recommendations
On Wed, Jun 11, 2003 at 01:28:42AM +0200, Roberto Sanchez wrote:
> I'm in the market for a new printer and I would like some suggestions.
> Here are my parameters:
Does it have to be new, or is used OK?
> - Laser printer (the inkjet has just been a money pit for the last year)
Lasers aren't all THAT cheap, either. :)
> - Reasonably priced (less than $500 is optimal)
Hm, you're making it harder, if you want native PostScript and networking.
> - Reasonably economical to operate (long term low cost per page printed)
As above.
> - Light use (will be connected to my home network)
Hm, must support Ethernet? Doable, or you could use something like a
JetDirect.
> - Must have parallel interface (will connect to my Woody box which has no USB)
Ok, is it a parallel printer or a network printer?
> - Speaks Postscript (I believe this makes it easier that I don't need drivers)
Ouch... you just priced yourself out of the market you want to be in.
PostScript printers are *not* cheap new.
> - Small footprint desirable
Small is relative. Small as a sheet of paper, or small compared to your
computer, or small as compared to your stove? :)
> - Speed is not a concern (i.e., can print slow)
How about 8 ppm or so?
If you're willing to accept used, you could pick up a used Apple
LaserWriter 630. It uses the same consumables as a HP LJ4, it's 600 dpi,
it's networkable via Ethernet, it has a parallel port, and it speaks
PostScript level 2 natively.
Should be easily obtainable for less than $200, with a decently low page
count, in decent shape.
I paid $70 for mine on eBay with less than 25k pages printed (engine rated
for 300k without major servicing).
Commercial: for *nix hacks, Apple's printers have got to be about the most
unknown thing there ever was. They're showing up on the used market in
droves, because morons have this idea that they're not compatible somehow
with a PC. Nothing could be further from the truth. PostScript is
PostScript is PostScript.
Of course, this is all my opinion. YMMV.
--
Marc Wilson | Parting is such sweet sorrow. -William Shakespeare
msw@cox.net |
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