Lexmark E323n

Encased in distinctive black, the Lexmark E323n is an affordable network mono laser intended for small workgroups. It's not packed with every trick in the book, but it could hit the right note if you're looking for all the basics.

The paper trays are akin to those found on most inkjet printers. The main input tray towards the back holds 150 sheets - a very inkjet-like capacity in itself - while a single-sheet manual feeder is located just in front of it.

In front of these two is another extendable lean-back tray, this time for the printouts. It's also possible to open a flap at the front of the machine for face-up output, but it's best reserved for single sheets or card, for which a straighter paper path may be necessary.

In addition to the Ethernet port, the E323n's network features include Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) support for automatic configuration. If your network doesn't enjoy the luxury of DHCP, IP addresses are easy to set up remotely from any connected PC using the Printer Setup Utility provided.

Helpfully, the printer drivers can converse with the Markvision software provided, to assist with usage reports and account tracking. This is the kind of feature you'd only expect from a printer costing twice as much.

The printer is fast enough for everyday work. In our tests, we achieved 18ppm for plain text output, which is close enough to the quoted 20ppm.

Print quality is good, if not quite the best we have seen, but you should consider upgrading the memory in the device if you plan on printing lots of graphics.

Similarly, while a 150-sheet input tray isn't a problem for personal printers, a busy workgroup might be advised to invest in the 250-sheet optional feeder.

Contact: Lexmark 08704 440 044
www.lexmark.co.uk

Specifications:

• 150-sheet input tray, single-sheet manual
• 20ppm
• 600 x 600dpi
• Combined toner and imaging drum kit
• 16MB memory
• USB, Ethernet
• 9kg
• 391 x 361 x 221mm (w x d x h)
• £72.51 (£61.71 ex VAT) standard toner, £101.44 (£86.33 ex VAT) high capacity