Features:
- Print speed of 10 pages per minute
- 4 MB standard, expandable to 52 MB
- True 1,200 x 1,200 dpi resolution
- Networking option via integrated EIO slot
- 4 Mbps IrDA-compliant infrared port
Description:
Hewlett-Packard's LaserJet 2100xi offers fast 10-page-per-minute printing, ultrasharp true 1,200 x 1,200 dpi resolution, an IrDA port for your laptop or PDA, and exclusive HP UltraPrecise toner cartridges for sharper text and smooth grayscales in graphics. To set up the 2100xi, we removed the protective shipping tape and padding, unpacked and inserted the included toner cartridge, and connected the AC power. We searched a long time for a Centronics parallel port to connect the printer to our PC before finding the port behind a plastic panel. Finally, we inserted the CD-ROM and followed the HP setup program. Except for the hidden port, the process was straightforward and intuitive. To test the 2100xi, we printed text in a variety of fonts and sizes. All our samples were as laser-perfect as we would expect in a 1,200-dpi printer. We also printed graphics and artwork. The printer's monochrome interpretation of the originals' color was warm and smooth with little evidence of dotted halftoning or pixelation. The printer is rated at 10 pages per minute and, in our tests, it performed at just under 9 pages per minute for both Best Quality and Fast Printing modes, indicating (as expected) that the paper path, not the print quality, limits the printer's maximum speed. However, the printer's built-in 66-MHz processor prevented processing delays and the draining of our desktop PC's system resources. An especially handy feature is the Cancel Job button, which allows you to cancel the current printing job without having to open the Print Manager on your PC. The printer also has 4 MB standard, expandable to 52 MB, and a fast 4 Mbps IrDA port, allowing you to print from your laptop, or even Windows CE-based PDA, without a cable. (HP's Web site offers free software that you can download to your PDA for this purpose.) With its sturdy construction, straightforward setup, fast printing, and beautifully sharp output, the 2100xi impressed us as a fine laser printer. Pros:
- Fast printing
- Sturdy construction
- IrDA port
- Cancel Job button
Cons:
- Parallel port is hard to find
- Printer cable not included
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