printer and another guide

HP LaserJet 1200

I bought the HP LaserJet 1200 in 2003 when it first came out because it won awards and plaudits from online reviewers. I have always like HP equipment, its solid and reliable, while being backed up by the computer giant.

I initially bought it because my LaserJet 1100 died, and couldnt be resurrected. I had been happy with it throughout its life so thought the logical thing would be to invest in its successor. How technology has moved on in a little over a year. The 1200 is faster, prints better and seems much more intelligent that the old 1100.

The initial setup was easy. There is a handy leaflet to get you started including diagrams of the steps, there is also more instructions on the CD for those who need a little more help. The only downside to this printer is that the cables are a little awkward at the back. Once you get over this, the printer is great. Its connected by USB or parallel only, but I only use it on a single computer so that doesnt bother me.

Although this is a printer, there is the option to add a scanner and copier to it. I didnt bother because I dont need them, but the flexibility is reassuring. You can also increase the memory, but not the paper handling. The 250 sheet drawer is all you get, but this again is fine for me.

Print-wise the LaserJet 1200 is excellent. Not only is it fast, at around 11 pages per minute (despite HPs claimed 15), but the quality is good too. This is a monochrome printer so has a maximum of 256 shades of gray. To see the prints you would think it was much more than that. Text is deep black, with straight edges and looks very tidy. Photographs are printed well, and this is where the grayscale works to its best. The prints are details, and the shades mix well to make the overall picture. They arent on par with an inkjet, but for a laser they are great.

The HP LaserJet 1200 is a great little printer for those with modest needs. Even though it has a 10,000 page a month duty cycle, one could never imagine using that much. The included tools are great and offer some neat features, which just adds to the versatility of this machine.