10 Evaluating color laser printers
HP Embedded Web
Server
Allows you to view printer and network status and to manage printing functions from
your computer instead of from the printer control panel; enables proactive one-on-
one printer management. This tool can be used when the printer is connected to a
network via an HP Jetdirect print server.
HP Web Jetadmin
HP Web Jetadmin provides network managers a single support tool to install,
monitor, and troubleshoot a wide range of network-connected devices from an
intuitive browser interface. While the HP Embedded Web Server is used to manage
a single printer, HP Web Jetadmin is used to manage groups of printers and other
devices. This tool can be used when the printer is connected to a network via an
HP Jetdirect print server. For more information, see Appendix A, “Productivity tools
and services“ on page 27.
Evaluation
Setting up the printer
Have a representative end-user unbox and set up the printer, using the printer documentation as a
guide. Consider the following:
• Is the user documentation helpful?
• How does the overall printer design contribute to ease of use?
• How well is the user able to install and interact with supplies and accessories?
Testing printer software
1. Install the drivers and other printer software and then print some test pages. Document any
driver or software changes performed during testing.
2. Note which platforms and printer languages the drivers support.
3. Install and test all supported printer languages as time permits.
4. Evaluate the printer software after installation:
• Is the driver easy-to-use?
• What special features or utilities does the driver include?
• What special software or tools are available?
• Does the printer support legacy print jobs?
Testing interactions with the printer
Print several documents on a variety of media sizes and weights, using the paper path that best
suits the print job. Interact with the control panel. When comparing printers, consider the
following:
• In general, is the printer easy to use?
• How easy is it to determine the printer, print job, and print cartridge status?
• How easy is it to change paper sizes and types?
• Is the paper-handling system adjustable and expandable? Is automatic two-sided printing
available?
• Does the range of supported media and media sizes meet your needs? Does the printer
support special media, such as envelopes and transparencies?
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