Lexmark C792de Printer Test Report v3 - Print, secure and ... · Color Laser Printer, which has a rated print speed of up to ... In the following test report, ... The Lexmark C792de

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Copyright © 2011 BERTL Inc. January 2011All Rights Reserved. The license under which this document is made available and applicable law prohibit any reproduction or further transmission of any portion of this document. This document may only be viewed electronically through the www.BERTL.com Web site and may not be stored in electronic or hard copy format. Any reproduction of trademarks is strictly prohibited. BERTL accepts no responsibility for any inaccuracies or omissions contained in this document.

Lexmark C792de

50-ppm Monochrome and Color

Print

Key Buyer Benefits Large and easy to use 4.3 inch color touch screen provides convenient device operation and features audible feedback Superior print productivity with Time-to-First Page in color as fast as 8.5 seconds and 8.0 seconds in black High quality output with 1200 x 1200 dpi resolution; 4800 Color Quality (2400 x 600 dpi) Lexmark's advanced color laser toner formula displays fine detail and vibrant colors Built-in USB interface lets users preview and print files from a USB flash drive for instant portability Great design and ease-of-use with the Universal XL and PostScript drivers Excellent paper handling and media support Powerful 1.2 GHz processor Standard hard drive (dhe model only) allows for solutions support and ample storage space Lexmark Cartridge Collection Program offers convenient toner cartridge recycling Flexible desktop and network utilities via Lexmark’s Embedded Web Server Security features include TCP/IP Port Access, IPSec, SNMPv3 and 802.1x authentication, secure data encryption, disk

wiping, LDAP and LEAP Optional output options include a five-bin mailbox, an offset stacker, a staple finisher, and a staple with hole punch

finisher Maximum monthly duty cycle is 150,000 pages and a monthly recommended page volume with a range of 2,500 to

17,000 pages. Optional input options allow users to expand the media handling capacity to 3,200 sheets Lexmark's Extra High-Yield Print Cartridge delivers up to 20,000 pages Eco-friendly features include Eco-Mode to reduce paper and toner consumption, and a Sleep button to reduce energy

consumption Energy Star compliant

What’s Inside

January 2011 Lexmark C792de www.BERTL.com


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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction

3

Device Features Summary 3

Print

4

Print Productivity 4 Bandwidth 4 What BERTL Liked 5

Image Quality

6

Density 6 Resolution 6 Halftones 6 Negative/Positive Lines 7 Negative/Positive Dots What BERTL Liked

7 7

Ease of Use

8

Programming the Control Panel 8 Print Drivers 12 Routine Maintenance 17 Client Utilities and Device Management

20

What BERTL Liked 22

User Accessibility

24

User Accessibility 24 What BERTL Liked 24

Media Handling

25

Media Handling Checklist 25 Loading Media 25

What BERTL Liked 26

Summing Up

27

Summary 27

About BERTL

28 About BERTL

28

Introduction



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In October 2010, Lexmark International, Inc. introduced the new Lexmark C792 Series of color laser printers. This new series combines fast, high-quality color printing, flexibility, great ease of use, and features eco-friendly features and functions. BERTL recently tested the Lexmark C792de Color Laser Printer, which has a rated print speed of up to 50 ppm for both color and monochrome. Maximum monthly duty cycle is 150,000 pages and a monthly recommended page volume with a range of 2,500 to 17,000 pages. The device features a standard paper capacity of 650 pages, but with optional paper handling options the paper capacity can be expanded to 3,200 pages. Models in this series are available in four configurations and sold exclusively through Lexmark authorized providers and direct marketing resellers in the United States and Canada. Pricing for each model in the series is as follows: Lexmark C792e US$ 1,349 Lexmark C792de US$ 1,599 Lexmark C792dte US$ 1,899 Lexmark C792dhe US$ 2,999

Each of the models in the C792 series contains different features and functions. Users can choose the model that best suits their business needs from a wide selection of options such as the following: Lexmark C792e: Base Printer model Lexmark C792de: Standard duplex, 550-Sheet input

tray Lexmark C792dte: Standard duplex, 550-Sheet input

tray, 550-sheet Drawer Lexmark C792dhe: Standard duplex, hard disk, 550-

sheet input tray, three 550-sheet drawers, 1 GB memory, and caster base

In the following test report, BERTL takes an in-depth look at the C792de, testing and evaluating its productivity, image quality, workflow and ease-of-use. The new Lexmark C792de Color Laser Printer is designed to be easy on the environment and offers the following features:

Energy Star compliant Built-in two-sided printing to reduce paper waste Instant Warm-up fuser, along with Sleep and Hibernate

modes, helps reduce energy consumption Extra large 4.3 inch (10.9 cm) color touch screen with

audible feedback High quality output with 1200 x 1200 dpi resolution,

4800 Color Quality (2400 x 600 dpi) Powerful 1.2 GHz processor and optional hard disk for

expanded functionality

Preloaded applications help drive efficiency, Lexmark’s Embedded Solutions Framework enables the printer to be customized with industry-specific and cross-industry solutions, which saves precious time and helps streamline multi-step processes

Lexmark C792de Color Laser Printer- Features Summary

List Price US$ 1,599

Imaging Technology Color Laser

Standard Functions Color Printing

Optional Functions None

Maximum Monthly Duty Cycle 150,000 pages

Recommended Monthly Page Volume

2,500 – 17,000 pages

Mono Print Speed 50 ppm

Color Print Speed 50 ppm

Mono First Page Out Time 8 seconds

Color First Page Out Time 8.5 seconds

Automatic Duplex Yes

BERTL’S GALAXY© STAR RATING

BERTL Galaxy© Star Rating Lexmark C792de

0.0 1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0 5.0

Price

Feat ures

Image Qualit y

Print ing

Media Handling

Ease of Use

Securit y

Net work Administ rat ion

Build Qualit y

Print


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PRINT PRODUCTIVITY

Evaluating print productivity is not as simple as timing copy jobs. The printing process involves several steps and can be affected by a variety of factors along the way.

The document must first be spooled by the print driver into a PCL or PostScript file. The PCL or PostScript file is then sent to the printer where it is raster image processed (RIPped) into image data by the device processor. The image data is then sent to the marking engine and output as printed pages.

It is possible to time and compare these factors through the use of careful preparation, conditioning and testing. Following are charts that show printing performance when tested under controlled conditions.

NETWORK PRINTING

The Lexmark C792de Color Laser Printer's Rated Output Speed is 50 ppm in both monochrome and color. The C792de Printer's Rated First Page Out Time (FPOT) is as fast as 8.0 seconds in monochrome and 8.5 seconds in color.

The Lexmark C792de Color Laser Printer provides users a choice of multiple print drivers including PCL 5c Emulation, PCL 6 Emulation, PostScript 3 Emulation, Personal Printer Data Stream (PPDS), xHTML, PDF 1.6, Direct Image, Microsoft XPS (XML Paper Specification).

High print resolutions of up to 1200 x 1200 dpi resolution for enhanced image quality.

Drivers support the following Microsoft Windows operating systems: Windows XP, XP x64, Server 2003, Server 2003 running Terminal Services, Server 2003 x64, Server 2003 x64 running Terminal Services, Vista, Vista x64, Server 2008, Server 2008 x64, Server 2008 running Terminal Services, Windows Server 2008 x64 running Terminal Services, and Windows 7. Drivers support the following Novell operating systems: Novell NetWare 6.5 Open Enterprise Server, Novell NetWare 5.1(SP 6+), 6.0(SP 3+) with Novell Distributed Print Services (NDPS), and Novell Open Enterprise Server on SUSE Linux Enterprise Server. Drivers support the following Linux operating systems: Debian GNU/Linux 5.0, SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 10, 11, SUSE Linux Enterprise Desktop 10, 11, openSUSE 11.2, 11.3, Red Hat Enterprise Linux WS 4.0, 5.0, Red Flag Linux Desktop 6.0, Linpus Linux Desktop 9.6, Ubuntu 9.04, 9.10, 10.04, and Fedora 12, 13. Drivers support the following UNIX operating systems:

Mac OS X, Sun Solaris SPARC 8, 9, 10, Sun Solaris x86 10, HP-UX 11.11, 11.23, 11.31, and IBM AIX 5.2, 5.3, 6.1. Drivers support the following Citrix MetaFrame virtual operating systems: Microsoft Windows Server 2003 running Terminal Services with Citrix Presentation Server 3.0, 4.0, 4.5, Microsoft Windows Server 2003 and 2003 X64 Edition with Citrix XenApp 5.0, and Microsoft Windows Server 2008 and 2008 X64 Edition with Citrix XenApp 5.0. Users can connect to the Lexmark C792de Color Laser Printer via Ethernet 10/100/1000 BaseTX (RJ-45), USB 2.0 Specification Hi-Speed Certified (Type B), Front USB 2.0 Specification Hi-Speed Certified Port (Type A), and Rear USB 2.0 Specification Hi-Speed Certified Port (Type A). The device also features the following optional local ports: Internal RS-232C serial and Internal 1284-B Bi-directional Parallel.

The Lexmark C792de Color Laser Printer supports the following network protocols: TCP/IP IPv4, AppleTalk™, TCP/IP IPv6, TCP, and UDP. Network Printing Methods supported include: LPR/LPD, Direct IP (Port 9100), HTTP, NDPS/NEPS (Novell Distributed Print Services, Novell Netware Enterprise Print Services), Enhanced IP (Port 9400). FTP, TFTP, IPP 1.1 (Internet Printing Protocol), and ThinPrint print integration.

This device supports several network security standards, such as the following: SNMPv3, 802.1x Authentication, MD5, MSCHAPv2, LEAP, PEAP, TLS, TTLS, and IPSec. Fast productivity with a powerful 1.2 GHz CPU and 512 MB of memory that is expandable to 1,536 MB.

TESTING RESULTS

Print productivity is evaluated based on a text based letter sized 50 page PDF file.

Color Print Productivity

# of Originals Mode PCL6 PostScript

32 Simplex 49.4 ppm 48.9 ppm

32 Duplex 48.6 ppm 48.9 ppm Color print productivity is evaluated based on a graphic based letter sized 32 page PPT file.

Monochrome Print Productivity

# of Originals Mode PCL6 PostScript

50 Simplex 49.4 ppm 48.3 ppm

50 Duplex 49.9 ppm 49.8 ppm

Print


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Network-Bandwidth/Print File Sizes

File Name / Native File Size PCL6 PostScript

1-page Digital Photo PDF 4.48 MB 12.9 MB 5.79 MB

4-page Passport Form PDF

0.08 MB 0.76 MB 0.65 MB

16-page Magazine in PDF 1.78 MB 15.3 MB 3.49 MB

22-page Excel Worksheet 0.12 MB 3.98 MB 3.83 MB

32-page Text-Based PowerPoint

0.23 MB 15.9 MB 2.55 MB

32-page Graphic Intensive PowerPoint

4.20 MB 39.7 MB 24.5 MB

32-page Graphic Intensive PowerPoint (duplex)

4.20 MB 39.7 MB 24.5 MB

38-page Form Word Document

0.91 MB 15.3 MB 14.9 MB

50-page Text-Based PDF 0.17 MB 2.06 MB 3.71 MB

50-page Text-Based PDF (duplex)

0.17 MB 2.04 MB 3.71 MB

Legal Print Performance

PCL6 PostScript Simplex Duplex Simplex Duplex

First Page Time (secs)

14.05 14.25 14.14 15.02

Total Print Time (secs)

157.64 159.35 160.92 163.11

Running PPM

41.33 40.43 40.49 39.67

Test files printed on Legal paper size (8.5" x 14"). Test is based on printing a 100 page document in simplex and duplex modes.

Job List First Page Out Time (seconds)

Total Job Time (seconds)

PCL6 PS PCL6 PS 1-page Digital Photo Print Original

13.05 13.54 13.05 13.54

4-page Passport Form PDF

8.88 13.42 12.85 16.95

16-page Magazine PDF

9.79 14.86 27.98 32.26

22-page Excel Worksheet

9.20 9.17 33.79 35.04

32-page Text-Based PowerPoint

9.30 10.07 46.83 47.95

32-page Graphic Intensive PowerPoint

10.26 10.48 47.82 48.41

32-page Graphic Intensive PowerPoint (duplex)

14.01 14.80 50.92 51.45

38-page Form Word Document

8.85 10.08 52.92 54.51

50-page Text-Based PDF

7.95 15.20 67.23 75.73

50-page Text-Based PDF (duplex)

11.92 19.64 69.42 77.05

Test files printed on Letter paper size (8.5" x 11"). WHAT BERTL LIKED

Tested simplex monochrome network-print speed with the PCL6 driver was as fast as 49.4 ppm, closely matching Lexmark's rated speed of 50 ppm.

Tested simplex monochrome network-print speed with the PostScript driver was as fast as 48.3 ppm.

Tested duplex monochrome network-printer productivity was extremely productive up to 49.9 ppm with the PCL6 driver and 49.8 with PostScript driver.

Tested simplex color network-print speed with the PCL6 driver was as fast as 49.4 ppm, closely matching Lexmark's rated speed of 50 ppm.

Tested simplex color network-print speed with the PostScript driver was as fast as 48.9 ppm.

Tested duplex color network-printer productivity was productive at 48.6 ppm with the PCL6 P driver and 48.9 with PostScript driver.

Tested First-Page-Out-Time was 7.95 seconds in monochrome and 10.26 seconds in color.

Fast productivity in simplex mode when printing on legal size paper. The PCL driver was as fast as 41.33 ppm while the PostScript driver was just as productive at 40.49 ppm.

Legal Print productivity in duplex mode was fast as both drivers were able to print at 40.43 ppm (PCL) and 39.67 ppm (PostScript).

In BERTL’s job stream test, the PostScript driver completed the stream job test in 7 minutes and 55 seconds, running at 50.1 ppm, which translates to an efficiency rate of 99.98%. Using the PCL6 driver the efficiency rate was up to 99.37%.

WHAT BERTL WOULD LIKE TO SEE

BERTL was satisfied with the Lexmark C792de Color Laser Printer's performance in network-printer mode.

Image Quality



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IMAGE QUALITY

BERTL evaluates the output of several “test targets” in order to determine image quality. Following are descriptions of key elements of image quality. Note the numbered examples on each of the test targets shown in the right column.

Office Color Image Quality 1. Density of Solid Areas - Better contrast; more vivid overall images 2. Line Work - Better production of lines and text 3. Halftones - Better production of photographic and screened images 4. Negative/Positive - Better production of fine detail

Photographic Color Image Quality 5. Flesh tones - Better production of portraits 6. Banding - Better solid and dithered fill 7. Low Contrast - Better production of dark images 8. Saturation - Better production of bright colors 9. Caste – Better color fidelity 10. Fine Detail – Better reproduction of fine details

Density of Solid Areas*

Print Density

Black 1.52

Cyan 1.19

Yellow 0.86

Magenta 1.11

*Density is on a scale of 0 to 2.5, with 2.5 being the best possible.

Print Resolution

Vertical Horizontal

Black 3.0 3.0

Cyan 3.0 3.0

Yellow 3.0 3.0

Magenta 3.0 3.0 *Line Pairs per Millimeter. For copy resolution, higher is better (range, 2.0-8.0); for printer resolution, lower is better (range, 1.0-5.0).

BERTL uses ImageXpert printer test targets for the evaluation of printed image quality. BERTL technicians’ measure image density and evaluate the device’s ability to produce a full range of halftones and various sizes of negative/positive text, dots and lines in each primary printing color (CYMK).

BERTL uses synthetic (photographic) test images obtained from ISO International Standard 12640--Graphic Technology—Prepress digital data exchange—CYMK Standard Color Image Data (CYMK/SCID) in order to evaluate the ability to print photographic images.

1 1

1 1

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8

Image Quality



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IMAGE QUALITY

Print Halftones

Min. Gradation* Max. Gradation**

Black 10 100 Cyan 10 100

Yellow 10 80 Magenta 10 100

*Minimum gradation is on a scale of 10 – 100 percent in 10 percent increments. The best possible minimum gradation is 10 percent. **Maximum gradation is on a scale of 10 – 100 percent in 10 percent increments. The best possible maximum gradation is 100 percent.

Negative/Positive Lines*

Line Width (points)

Negative Positive

Vertical Horizontal Vertical Horizontal

1 x x √ √

2 √ √ √ √

3 √ √ √ √

4 √ √ √ √

5 √ √ √ √

6 √ √ √ √

A “√” mark indicates the device was able to print the line width correctly. *Chart cells containing an “x” indicate that the printer was not able to print the line width correctly. Overall, the fewer “x’s,” the better the image quality. If no cells are marked with an “x,” then the device was able to print all line widths correctly.

Negative/Positive Dots*

Line Width (points) % of Dots Printed

1 pixel cyan 100 1 pixel magenta 100

1 pixel yellow 100 1 pixel Black 100

1 pixel Black Neg 75 2x2 pixel Black 100

2x2 pixel Black Neg 100 Checkerboard apparent? 100

*On a scale of 0 – 100%. The higher the percentage, the better.

WHAT WE LIKED

Output displayed excellent print density in printer mode.

High quality 1200 x 1200 dpi produces smooth and rich business graphics.

Both color and monochrome output produced by the Lexmark C792de printer was very good. Text was bold, crisp and cleanly formed.

BERTL photographic test files displayed realistic flesh tones with a smooth and matte finish.

Excellent resolution in printer mode. Very good halftone reproduction in printer mode, as the

device was able to correctly reproduce most of the halftone shades.

Very good production of photographic images. Output displayed very good line reproduction and

average dot control when printing BERTL’s image-quality evaluation chart.

WHAT WE WOULD LIKE TO SEE

BERTL was satisfied with the Lexmark C792de Color Laser Printer's image quality. However, we would have liked to have seen less saturation in some photo prints and better halftone reproduction in print functions.

Ease of Use



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PROGRAMMING THE CONTROL PANEL

A control panel’s ease of use—or lack thereof—can often have a significant impact on user productivity. The harder it is to select frequently used options, such as duplexing or document finishing, the more time the user has to spend programming the device and the less productive they are. The Lexmark C792de Color Laser Printer's control panel consists of an extra large 4.3 inch color touch screen and hard keys. The touch screen provides audible feedback to the end user. On the touch screen, users have instant access to system functions such as, Change Language, Search Held Jobs, Held, Jobs, Profiles, Bookmarks, Forms and Favorites, Eco Settings, Showroom, Change Background, USB Drive, as well as a numeric key pad for entering items such as PIN numbers used to release Held Jobs. Also contributing to the productivity of this device is the ability to print from a USB flash drive instantly offers users a more portable way of accessing their documents. Users can even preview and print specific pages within a document.

The C792de Color Laser Printer’s control panel consists of a touch screen and hard keys.

Users can change the language displayed on the control panel on the fly.

The Lexmark C792de lets users choose from up to 17 different languages directly from the control panel.

The image above shows what the button labels on the control screen looks like when the language has been changed to Italian.

Above and Below: Users can send jobs to the printer and store them on the device until they are ready to be released. Search Held Jobs lets users find their files being held at the device so they can be printed.

Ease of Use



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The Held Jobs button on the control panel is the main destination when users want to print their held documents.

Within the Held Jobs option users are presented with options for Bookmarks, Profiles, USB Drive, and user folders.

User folders are automatically created by the device when the user submits a Print and Hold Job.

Users click on the confidential folder and then enter their PIN number in the key pad to release the file from the printer.

Users can access files stored on a USB drive by simply plugging their USB drive into the USB port located on the front of the device.

Users can create folders directly onto the USB drive and can also delete files from it.

Thumbnails of folders and files are displayed on the control panel.

In addition, users can view thumbnails of each page in a selected file. Users have the option of printing all pages, printing the current page, or selecting specific pages to be printed.

Ease of Use



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Users can enter the specific pages to be printed in this screen. Users can also change their page settings by pressing the page icon in the lower left corner.

Users can change the paper source, number of copies, color, and can enable or disable the device from printing blank pages.

Users can create bookmarks for common print jobs directly on the control panel. Users can set all options for their job at the control panel.

Users can also add additional forms and favorites from the Embedded Web Server.

Above and below: The Showroom application is designed to acquaint users with the printer and demonstrates the communication benefits of the large screen. Businesses can customize the idle screen with messages and images targeted to employees or customers.

Ease of Use



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Above and below: Eco-Settings allows users to alter their printer’s settings so they can conserve energy, toner and paper use.

Users have the option of choosing between turning Eco-Mode on/off, configuring it to save energy, energy/paper or paper.

By selecting the Energy Eco-Setting, the printer automatically conserves energy using a different power saving setting. If a user selects the Paper Eco-Setting, the printer saves paper by printing on both sides of the paper. Users can enable both features for added savings.

Users can customize the background and idle screen of the printer's home screen.

Users are given five standard background options to choose from.

The above image shows the printer's home screen with the new background image.

Ease of Use



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Users can add their own custom background image and set it as their default. The image above shows the how the image is sent to the device. The image below shows the custom background image once it has been set as the default.

The right side of the control panel contains various hard keys, including keys for “Home” (White) and "Stop” (Red X).

A number of menus are available to make it easy for users to change the device settings. To access this screen, users have to click the menus button found on the home screen.

The Status/Supplies message screen shows intervention messages to give instructions on what should be done, such as “Close Front Door”.

The View Supplies button displays the current toner levels on the device.

The status of other consumables such as Waste Toner Box, Fuser, and Transfer Module are displayed on the second page.

Ease of Use



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The Help menu consists of help pages that are stored in the device. They contain reference information about using the device and performing tasks.

The built-in USB interface lets users print files from a USB flash drive for instant printing convenience. PRINT DRIVERS

As with control panels and touch screens, print driver design can vary enormously from manufacturer to manufacturer. The C792de Printer supports multiple page description languages, including PCL6 and PS3 emulations as well as XPS. The device can be connected in any Windows®, Mac, Unix, Linux, and Citrix Metaframe environment.

Print Driver Checklist

Do print drivers have identical user interfaces? No

Are print drivers interfaces identical to other vendor models?

Yes

Bi-directional communication within print drivers? Yes

Auto device configuration from within print driver? Yes

Does print driver installation require rebooting of the workstation?

No

Are print driver deployment processes included? Yes

Are print driver deployment guidelines and procedures included?

Yes

UNIVERSAL XL PRINT DRIVER

The Lexmark C792de Color Laser Printer Universal XL and PostScript print driver user interfaces differ in the way options and functions are presented to the user. Both the Universal XL and PostScript drivers are emulation drivers.

Administrators can specify system defaults and settings by accessing the driver’s Printer Properties through the Printers and Faxes folder from the Microsoft Windows’ Start menu. Administrators can also enable bi-directional communication, so that users can conveniently check the device or consumable status from the print driver by selecting the “Ask Printer” button.

The driver’s first tab, Paper Layout, provides options for selecting the number of copies, simplex/duplex, page orientation, and multipage printing (N-Up).

Ease of Use



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The More Page Layout Options tab offers the user the ability to modify Advance Layout options, modify booklet layout settings and modify poster layout settings.

A booklet or pamphlet can be made from any multiple-page document printed in landscape orientation. The Booklet Setting screen allows users to add a cover which can be printed on both the inside and outside of the front and back cover sheets.

The Poster Settings function makes a larger printed document by dividing the document into an equal number of sections and then printing each of those sections on a separate sheet. The sheets can then be trimmed and assembled into the enlarged document, graphic, or chart.

The Paper tab offers users the ability to change paper size and scale documents to fit loaded paper. Users also have the ability to specify the location or source of the paper to be used for the print job. Users may also specify the type of paper to be used.

Ease of Use



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The driver’s Print Quality tab allows users to choose the print resolution, enable Toner darkness, modify the ColorSaver™ settings, and lets the user print all text in black instead of grayscale.

Above and below: The More Color Options feature offers Color Correction and Color Balance options designed to help the end user adjust the color quality of their output.

The More Print Quality Options dialogue screen offers users additional image quality enhancement choices which include the following: RGB Correction (allows the user to adjust the contrast enhancement applied to images), Brightness (used to adjust the darkness of the document), Contrast (used to adjust the degree of difference between levels of gray in the document), Saturation, and Enhance fine lines (both used to print documents with finer detail).

The Other Options tab provides users with the ability to create and edit Watermarks, enable secure printing with Print and Hold, apply Overlays, and enable Account Tracking.

The Watermark feature can be used to print a single line of text in the background of the document.

Ease of Use



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Watermarks do not require much memory and are always sent to the printer with the document rather than being stored on the printer. Confidential, Original, and Copy are just a few of the available watermarks.

The Print and Hold options providing extra security features as to how and when a job is printed. Features include Confidential, Verify, Reserve and Repeat. Users can enter up to a ten digit PIN number which is used to secure the job and then release it at the printer. POSTSCRIPT PRINT DRIVER

The PostScript print driver is a more robust driver than the Universal XL driver. The PostScript driver is packed with a wide variety of features and functions.

The Layout tab lets users select the number of copies, orientation, and page layout for their documents. The Page Layouts options lets users choose between printing in normal mode, multiple pages per side (N-Up), booklet, poster, or mirror modes. The right side of the PostScript driver displays textual information specific to the job settings enabled in the driver. As the user selects an option in the driver, the contents on the right of the screen change to reflect the settings enabled. In addition, users can save specific settings and call them up at a later time. This enables the user to be more productive as they can save a set of options for similar jobs and then apply them directly from the driver by loading the saved settings from the Load Settings dropdown list.

The Paper/Finishing tab offers users the option to change the paper size, resize options, manage custom sizes, select the paper type, choose the paper source, and enable the use of multiple input options.

Ease of Use



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The Quality tab lets users indicate the type of document being printed. Users can choose from Text, Text/Photo, Photo and Custom. In addition, users can change the print resolution from 1200 dpi to 4800 CQ. CQ is an exclusive Lexmark technology that automatically adjusts dot size and shape simultaneously. This unique technology delivers sharp color for both images and business graphics. Pantone® calibration complements this technology to deliver the consistent and accurate colors that customers expect. Additional color options include Edit Color Correction, Edit Color Balance, and Edit Color Matching. Users can also enable both the Print text as black and Print in black and white options. Users can lighten or darken the image appearance in their print jobs by adjusting the toner darkness on the device within this tab. The RGB Correction options lets users adjust fine detail controls over Brightness, Contrast, and Saturation settings when printing in color.

The Watermark tab lets users add a single line of text in the background of the document. Watermarks do not require much memory and are always sent to the printer with the document rather than being stored on the printer. Confidential, Date and Time, Draft, and Username are a few of the available watermarks.

The Edit Watermarks dialog lets users modify all of the characteristics of an existing watermark, including the text that is displayed in the watermark, how transparent the watermark appears, and the position of the watermark on the page.

The Print and Hold options provide extra security features to how and when a job is printed. Features include Confidential, Verify, Reserve and Repeat print. Users can enter up to a ten digit PIN number which is used to secure the job and then release it at the printer.

The Other Options tab is available for the user to control how True Type Fonts are printed and allows the user to modify the Job Accounting settings that will be associated with the print job. ROUTINE MAINTENANCE

Workgroup devices sold through retail and traditional IT distribution outlets usually are maintained by office workers who change the all-in-one cartridge units that encase the entire imaging system, including the toner cartridge (or the ink cartridges employed by ink-jet imaging systems). Units sold through resellers and dealers are usually maintained by office workers and/or trained service engineers. While separate long-life parts are more complex to install (i.e., separate toner cartridges, imaging drums, transfer belts), they tend to cost less than low-yield, all-in-one alternatives.

Ease of Use



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Toner or Ink Replacement Changing the toner, imaging cartridge or ink cartridge is a necessary task that is traditionally avoided by some for fear of toner dust or ink leaking on their clothing or hands, or the fear that it might be too complicated. However, most units today offer clean replacement of toner or ink supplies, and there is very little risk of toner or ink leakage. Usually the replacement process is relatively easy. Clearing Media Misfeeds The main issue that office users attempt to avoid is the removal of an occasional media misfeed. As a general rule, the faster a device engine, and the more media handling and finishing options it has, the more complex the process of removing media misfeeds is. Common media-misfeed sources involve the duplex unit and poor loading of media supplies. The position of the duplex unit may be a major factor in the removal of many media misfeeds. How easy or difficult it is to load media supplies can also be a factor in the overall number of misfeeds that may occur.

Maintenance Checklist

Load ink/toner while running? No

Requires rear access for access to maintenance and misfeed items?

No*

Requires side access for access to maintenance items?

Yes

All-in-one imaging units? Yes

User-disposable waste item(s)? Yes

* The system board is accessed from the rear when adding memory, hard drive, and network options. REPLACING TONER

In order to change the Lexmark C792de Color Laser Printer's consumables, the user must first open the front panel by pulling the front panel door out.

Replacing the Lexmark C792de Color Laser Printer's toner cartridges was effortless.

Once the front panel door is open, the user simply pulls the appropriate green lever and slides the unit out for replacement.

REPLACING FUSER UNIT

In order to replace the fuser unit, the user must first pull open the side door.

Ease of Use



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The user then releases the gray side latches located on each side of the fuser.

Once unlatched, a set of handles are revealed and the user uses them to pull out the unit for replacement.

The handles on the fuser make it very easy for the user to replace the unit. Users should be cautious when handling the fuser as the unit can be very hot.

REPLACING WASTE TONER BOX

Users must periodically empty the device’s waste toner bottle located on the lower front side of the device.

The user simply releases the green latches on the front of the bottle and then pulls it out.

Ease of Use



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MISFEED ACCESS

Above and below: Misfeeds can be cleared in the duplex area by lowering the left side panel door and lifting the duplex cover.

.

CLIENT UTILITIES AND DEVICE MANAGEMENT

In order to take the best and most efficient advantage of a device and its capabilities, as well as ensure maximum uptime, clients need an efficient way to access and monitor the device. Lexmark offers many features and options, including their Embedded Web Server, to help productivity for all users.

The Lexmark C792de Color Laser Printer provides a Web-based printer home page that enables users to quickly check the status of the device and consumables.

Administrators can check the status of the toner cartridges, fuser, and transfer modules.

Ease of Use



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Administrators can view device statistics detailing jobs printed by each driver, job length, media sheet count, and monochrome and color counts, among other reports.

Above and below: Lexmark’s Embedded Web Server Printer Settings allows administrators to clone device settings for up to 15 similar printers. This feature improves productivity and ensures that all of the devices on the network have the same device and security settings for added protection.

The Settings page contains links to web pages on the embedded server which allow the user to change the device's General Settings, Bookmark Setup, Print Settings, and Paper Menu. Additional settings that can be modified include Network/Port, Update Firmware, Security, E-Mail Alert Setup, Intervention Management, Import/Export, and Solutions.

The Reports page allows users the ability to run several different types of reports for information collected by the device. Report options include Device Statistics, Device Settings, Device Information, Print Directory, and Profiles List.

Lexmark’s Embedded Web Server provides links for downloading printer drivers, firmware, technical support, features and functions, and ordering consumables via the Web.

Ease of Use



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Above and below: The Lexmark C792de Color Laser Printer incorporates Lexmark’s Remote Operator Panel feature, which enables users to operate the device’s touch screen from their computer workstation using Virtual Network Computing (VNC). The VNC communication takes place directly between the client and the device.

Above and next column: With VNC communication enabled, users can view the device's control panel directly on their PC. This is especially helpful for users who need a larger view of the control panel.

Network administrators can easily configure SMTP network settings, gateway, authentication and device credentials within the web interface.

Lexmark’s Embedded Web Server provides automatic e-mail alerts when the system requires attention.

Ease of Use



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WHAT BERTL LIKED

The features and functions on the control panel are large, clearly labeled and easy to identify.

The device has a 4.3 inch color touch screen which features large icons with easy to read text, as well as a simple design for easy navigation.

This is the first time a color touch screen of this size has been introduced on a Lexmark printer in this class. The color touch screen on this series sets Lexmark apart from its competitors, as it is able to bring better ease of use and functionality to the end user.

Users have the ability to preview thumbnails of their documents prior to printing. Users can also view, select and print specific pages within their document directly from the control panel.

Users can change the language displayed on the control panel on the fly directly from the control panel.

Several of the features and functions offered on the Lexmark C792de control panel are virtually the same as that of other recently released Lexmark devices. Users will quickly acclimate to the device's features and functions thanks to its simple and uncomplicated design.

The device's Eco-Mode optimizes the printer settings resulting in lower energy consumption. Users can set the device to conserve energy, paper or both.

Both the Universal XL and PostScript drivers are relatively easy to use and logically organized. Both drivers have different features but users will not have a problem finding the features they need in either driver.

Users will be able to quickly and easily switch between drivers and find the settings they need with ease.

Both print drivers provide bi-directional communication, so users can quickly check device and consumables’ status.

Performing common tasks such as clearing misfeeds and changing toner was simple to accomplish.

Using the front USB port to submit printing jobs to the device and store scanned documents directly into the USB flash drive was very easy and effortless.

For network and device management, Lexmark provides its Embedded Web Server, which displays detailed device, consumable and job status. Administrators can configure network and system settings, as well as manage access and accounting controls. Administrators can manage a fleet of devices from any workstation on the network.

Lexmark’s Embedded Web Server provides automatic e-mail alerts when the system requires attention. Administrators can also clone multiple devices with the settings from one device.

This device is supported by Lexmark MarkVision Professional (MVP), which provides a vast range of capabilities for monitoring and administrating network-

connected printers across the enterprise. With MVP, network administrators can quickly and efficiently discover, organize, group, configure and upgrade groups of network devices. Administrators can also quickly assess the status and configuration of network devices.

MVP’s client-server component is responsible for discovering and communicating with devices on the network and providing information about those devices to connected clients. The client is responsible for displaying information about the devices to a user and providing them with an interface to manage those devices.

Vast security options such as IPSec, SNMPv3 and 802.1x network security, secure data encryption and disk wiping. The device also features security audit logging which is used to help track and identify security risks.

A card reader option offers an added extra layer of security.

Hard disk encryption protects sensitive data on the disk drive. Users have the option of setting up the device to automatic, manual or scheduled disk wiping.

LDAP proactively tracks access to the device and reduces the device's exposure to security risks.

Lexmark’s Remote Operator Panel, which provides a remote view of the control panel on the user’s computer monitor, enables users and administrators to operate and view the control panel from their desktops. IT administrators can remotely take control of the device’s control panel to see exactly what the end user is seeing. IT administrators can remotely change settings, show the user how to perform a function, or diagnose and often rectify problems without deploying a technician.

Lexmark’s cutting edge Remote Front Panel software is also designed to accommodate the needs of disabled users. As mentioned above, the device control panel can be viewed from a user’s computer workstation. An enlarged touch screen on the printer provides easier visibility to all of the devices features and functions allowing disabled users full use of the device.

WHAT BERTL WOULD LIKE TO SEE

BERTL found that the Lexmark C792de Color Laser Printer was very easy to use and maintain on a daily basis. We were also very impressed with the features and functions offered on the device.

Ease of Use



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USER ACCESSIBILITY

In the United States, Section 508 legislation prohibits government agencies from purchasing devices that are not accessible to those with physical impairments. For this reason, and the corporate world’s increased focus on providing a better work environment for all, many device manufacturers increasingly are providing more user-friendly features for physically- and visually-impaired users. Common design features include tilting control panels, giving wheelchair-bound users a better view of the screen, and larger display options for those with impaired vision. Voice navigation and Braille also are becoming increasingly popular. Easy access to the paper path for misfeed removal and front access to toner supplies also make a device more user-friendly. The Lexmark C792de Color Laser Printer has exceptional accessibility features that are designed for convenient access for everyone in the workplace, these systems incorporate user-friendly features such as simple control panel with hard keys, and easy-pull paper drawers, all which are in compliance with Section 508 requirements.

USER ACCESSIBILITY PAPER JAM REMOVAL

Paper jam removal is a simple process for those in a wheelchair. There are no hidden jam points and all access areas are at a comfortable height and angle for access from the front of the device. Adding paper and replacing toner is also a simple process from a wheelchair as well. Toner doors open easily during the toner replacement process and the toner bottle is designed to be lighter and easy to replace, so most users can do it with one hand WHAT BERTL LIKED

The Lexmark C792de Color Laser Printer has exceptional accessibility features that are designed for convenient accessibility for everyone in the workplace, these systems incorporate user friendly features that make them easier to operate and align with Section 508 requirements.

BERTL liked that users can easily replace the C792de Printer's consumables.

The paper trays are easy to adjust and fill. Users can easily access misfeed areas on the device.

The touch screen provides audible feedback to the end user.

Media Handling



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MEDIA INPUT

The Lexmark C792de Color Laser Printer comes standard with one 550-Sheet Input Tray and a 100-Sheet Multipurpose Feeder. For high-volume printing, a 2,000-Sheet High Capacity Feeder and a 550-Sheet Drawer can be added to increase the total capacity to 3,200 sheets. The device can automatically feed paper weights from 60 to 176 gsm (16 to 47 lb bond) grain long. Paper lighter than 60 gsm (16 lb) might not be stiff enough to feed properly and can result in paper jams. For optimal performance, Lexmark recommends the use of 75 gsm (20 lb bond) grain long paper. For paper smaller than 182 x 257 mm (7.2 x 10.1 in.), Lexmark recommends 90 gsm (24 lb) or heavier paper. For duplex printing, the Lexmark C792de supports a range of paper weights between 60 gsm–176 gsm (16 lb–47 lb bond) paper. Card stock including 65 lb cover, 90 lb. Bristol, and 100 lb tag is also supported in simplex and duplex modes.

Media Handling Checklist

Minimum/Maximum Media Weight (550-sheet paper drawer) (Multi-Purpose Tray Feeder)

16 lb bond ( 60 gsm)/ 47 lb bond (176 gsm)

Minimum/Maximum Duplex Printing

16lb bond (60 gsm) / 47 lb bond (176 gsm)

Feeds maximum media weight from all sources?

Yes

Offset Stacker Yes (Optional)

Finisher Yes (Optional)

Hole Punch Yes (Optional)

The Lexmark C792de Color Laser Printer shown here is equipped with one standard 550-sheet drawer and a 100-sheet multipurpose feeder.

The 100-sheet multipurpose feeder is located on the left side of the device. The feeder can be accessed by lowering the tray down and can be adjusted by sliding the levers into place. The feeder can be adjusted for envelope printing. The multipurpose feeder can hold several sizes and types of print media, such as transparencies, labels, card stock, and envelopes. It can be used for single-page or manual printing, or as an additional tray. The multipurpose feeder can hold approximately: 100 sheets of 20 lb (75 gsm) paper 10 envelopes 100 transparencies The multipurpose feeder accepts paper or specialty media within the following dimensions: Width—89 mm (3.5 in.) to 229 mm (9.02 in.) Length—127 mm (5 in.) to 1270 mm (50 in.) LOADING MEDIA

Media Loading Checklist

Drop-in loading of a full ream of paper? Yes

Spring-loaded ramps in paper trays? No

Geared media size side guides? Yes

Captured rear media guide? Yes

Automatic paper size detection? Yes

Media Handling



Page 26

Above and Below: In order to adjust the 550-sheet paper drawer to accommodate the width of different paper sizes, the user unlocks the tray guide and then squeezes and slides the green guide into place.

To accommodate the height of the page the user squeezes the green guide and slides into the desired paper height.

WHAT BERTL LIKED

100-sheet multipurpose feeder is easily adjusted to accommodate different paper sizes including envelopes, labels (paper and vinyl), card stock and transparencies.

The multipurpose feeder features versatile media handling and flexibility, with the ability to print on stock as heavy as 47 lb bond (176 gsm) and paper sizes up to 48” long banner media. The banner tray is offered as an option. A single banner sheet can be feed through the device at a time. A banner feeder is offered as an option.

Easy to adjust and fill all paper drawers. Versatile media handling and flexibility, with the ability

to print on stock as heavy as 47 lbs bond (176 g/s2) and paper sizes up to 8.5” x 14”.

The Lexmark C792de Color Laser Printer output bin can hold up to 500 sheets for large print runs.

Standard paper capacity is 650 sheets, and can be expanded to a sizeable 3,200 sheets for longer uninterrupted operation.

Accepts a wide range of media types, from plain paper, to bond, letterhead, light, heavy, preprinted, card stock, labels (paper/vinyl) directly from the paper drawer.

The Lexmark C792de features a 150K duty cycle. WHAT BERTL WOULD LIKE TO SEE

BERTL was very satisfied with the Lexmark C792de Color Laser Printer's media-handling capabilities.

Summary


Page 27


The Lexmark C792de Color Laser Printer demonstrated exceptional performance in BERTL's product evaluation. The Lexmark C792de delivered excellent image quality, outstanding print productivity and superior ease of use. This product is packed with tons of features and functions not typically found in printers of this speed class. The Lexmark C792de printer features a 4.3 inch color touch screen that features Adobe Flash Lite integration into the display and yields a fast performing user interface. The ease of use on this product sets it apart from its competitors. The control panel features audible feedback to the user and provides users with the ability to preview page thumbnails of documents. Users can select specific pages within their document and print them directly from the printer. The device includes a front USB port which allows for convenient walk-up previewing and printing. This easy to use device features intuitive navigation which provides fast access to the functions, shortcuts, and workflows embedded on the device. Media support and handling on this device is outstanding, as it features a robust paper-feeding design and provides users with easy front access to all consumables. The Lexmark C792de Color Laser Printer offers versatile media handling and flexibility, with the ability to print on stock as heavy as 47 lbs bond (176 gsm) and paper sizes up to 8.5” x 14”. Standard paper capacity is 650 sheets, (550-Sheet Paper Drawer and 100-sheet Multipurpose Feeder) and can be expanded to a sizeable 3,200 sheets (2,000-Sheet High Capacity Feeder, 550-Sheet Drawer). The output bin on this product can hold up to 500 sheets for large print runs. During BERTL’s extensive testing of the Lexmark C792de Printer, this office-color, laser-based printer designed for mid-size to large workgroups performed exceptionally well. BERTL observed the following when testing the device: Simplex monochrome print speed with the Universal XL driver was as fast as 49.4 ppm; closely

matching Lexmark's rated speed of 50 ppm. The PostScript driver was just as fast with a tested speed of 48.3 ppm.

Duplex monochrome print productivity was very efficient with results measuring up to 49.9 ppm with the Universal XL driver and 49.8 with PostScript driver.

Simplex color print speed with the Universal XL driver was as fast as 49.4 ppm; closely matching Lexmark's rated speed of 50 ppm. The PostScript driver was as fast as 48.9 ppm.

Duplex color print productivity was resourceful with speeds as fast as 48.6 ppm with the Universal XL driver and 48.9 with PostScript driver.

Lexmark’s Embedded Web Server provides detailed device and consumable status, and offers network administrators the ability to configure and manage device settings. The device can also be setup to conveniently send email alerts notifying network administrators of common hang-ups, such as low toner levels, to help maintain an uninterrupted workflow.

Security features include IPSec, SNMPv3 and 802.1x authentication, secure data encryption and disk wiping.

Advanced energy and supply-saving features, which include an instant warm-up fuser, Sleep and Hibernate buttons, built-in two-sided printing, and Eco-Mode and Quiet Mode which save energy and reduce noise. The device also ships with Lexmark Return Program Toner Cartridges, which can be returned to Lexmark free of charge for remanufacturing or recycling.

The device features a recommended monthly page volume of up to 17,000 pages per month and a maximum monthly duty cycle up to 150,000 pages.

Standard one-year, on-site service, next business day warranty.

Considering Lexmark’s C792de Color Laser Printer gave superior overall performance in testing, outstanding ease of use, and exceptional office color image quality, BERTL awards the Lexmark C792de Color Laser Printer its Five-Star, Exceptional rating and highly recommends the device for mid-size to large offices and workgroups that require a reliable, affordable and feature rich color printer.

About BERTL


Page 28

January 2011 Lexmark X792de MFP

www.BERTL.com

About BERTL

The success of an organization depends on its ability to manage its information and assets. An effective workflow process requires the complex integration of information, devices, software and people. IT managers, office managers, and other knowledge-management professionals need to know what digital imaging devices would best serve their specialized workflow processes. BERTL’s services are designed around this real-world framework, delivering business consumers the independent analysis and insight needed to make critical decisions about digital imaging’s role in their organization. Independent Analysis and Insight

BERTL’s reports, comparative data, and strategic guides look at digital imaging through the eyes of the business user. The research examines not only the technical features, but also vertical market applications, and business benefits. The impact on worker productivity is a primary concern. BERTL is 100 percent independent. It receives no funding from manufacturers and all product evaluations and reports are published at BERTL’s own expense for its subscribers. Business users worldwide trust BERTL for objective, unbiased analysis of digital imaging systems.

BERTL Services

Reports and Star Ratings BERTL analysts provide detailed reports on the technical and practical benefits of thousands of color and monochrome workgroup, office, graphic arts, and production devices. Product Specifications DataCheck provides the most current competitive data on printers, copiers, MFPs, fax devices, wide format printers, scanners, and more. News, Interviews, and Analysis The iTchat online magazine provides insight into the dynamics and trends of the digital imaging marketplace through interviews, feature articles, and software reviews. BERTL Awards

BERTL analysts recognize the leading devices and software solutions in the annual BERTL’s Best awards. BERTL also honors the performance of manufacturers in the annual Readers’ Choice selections. Contact BERTL

BERTL Inc. 363 Route 46 West, Suite 100 Fairfield, NJ 07004 Phone: 1-973-882-0200 Fax: 1-973-882-0201 Email: [email protected] www.BERTL.com

Documents

Lexmark C792de Printer Test Report v3 - Print, secure and ... · Color Laser Printer, which has a rated print speed of up to ... In the following test report, ... The Lexmark C792de