HP Laserjet 2300dtn

Just adding a network connection to an A4 mono laser won't be enough for the most demanding workgroups, so HP has designed the Laserjet 2300dtn to be the ideal top-spec printer for the workgroup that wants it all.

The main printer unit, containing a 250-sheet cassette and 100-sheet multipurpose feeder, sits on top of a 500-sheet bin base, giving you a capacity of 850 sheets.

By default, output drops face down into the top tray, but a flap opens at the back to allow printouts to be delivered face up, also acting as a straight paper path from the multipurpose feeder. A duplexing unit is built inside for two-sided printing.

A large, backlit LCD status window gives real messages and allows easy navigation of the printer menus. Thanks to the machine's embedded web server, you can change printer settings, monitor usage and check consumables remotely using a web browser.

HP's Jetdirect 615n EIO printer server is built in, so the job queue is processed by the printer itself. All port connections - USB, parallel and Ethernet - are protected behind a large plastic cover on the right in order to minimise the risk of cables being knocked out by accident. Network set-up is simple thanks to HP's Network Installation Wizard.

In our tests, we managed to print 21 copies of a plain text file within a minute, which isn't too far off the official 24 pages per minute rating.

Print quality is good, producing unbanded gradients and crisp text right down to 4pt without breaking up. Printing with PCL 5 and 6 ran perfectly, as did Postscript 3 jobs, despite being emulated rather than the real deal from Adobe. Our only complaint was the odour coming from the top of the unit when in use.

Contact: HP 08705 474 747
www.hp.co.uk

Specifications:

• Mono laser
• 250-sheet and 500-sheet input cassettes, 100-sheet MP tray
• 24ppm
• 1,200 x 1,200dpi
• 48MB memory
• USB, parallel, 10/100BaseTx Ethernet
• 18.9kg
• 412.8 x 450 x 397.2mm (w x d x h)
• Toner/drum cartridge life: 6,000
• sheets (five per cent usage)
• £117.57 per cartridge