HP LaserJet 4100N

HP's new LaserJet 4100N not only prints quickly and sharply, but can also warn you when it's about to run out of supplies. For this is a smart printer with an Embedded Web Server that can be configured to send out alerts when consumables are low. On top of this, the 4100N has an Embedded Virtual Machine, which allows it to run Java programs and extend its functionality via 'printing e-services'.

The LaserJet 4100N can print up to 24 pages per minute at 1,200dpi. The 32MB of installed memory will allow large or complex jobs to be processed, and if this isn't enough you can expand the RAM complement to 256MB. The 500-sheet main paper tray is adjustable from Legal to A5 sizes, and the manual feed tray can take these sizes as well as envelopes. The LaserJet 4100N is rated for a duty cycle of 150,000 pages per month, which is high for a printer in this price range -- this is a workhorse machine.

Parallel and Ethernet connections are available, with network management provided via the built-in Web server. Windows PCs and Macintoshes can connect to the printer over the network -- drivers for most Windows versions and Mac OS are available on the supplied CD-ROM, and a utility is provided for creating custom driver installers. This can simplify adding the new printer to many machines, since you can create a silent installation with all the correct options set.

The two-line LCD panel and control buttons allow you to configure most aspects of the printer's operation, including the network port. You can also print out configuration information from the menu. For remote management, HP's Web JetAdmin can be used to view detailed information about the printer.

HP's Smart Print Supplies system includes toner cartridges with integrated chips that provide detailed status information. For instance, when we first set up the printer it was able to detect and warn us that the sealing tape had been left in the cartridge, and gave instructions on what to do. Similarly, when paper or toner become low, the printer can be configured to send email alerts to a responsible person. It can also be configured to order the new supplies from an external vendor automatically, although you may wish to exercise care when using this option.

The LaserJet 4100N lacks some features, such as duplex printing and an infrared port, that can be seen on other printers of a similar price. But what you do get is a very manageable network printer that delivers fast, high-quality output.

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