8 Evaluating laser printers
Evaluation
Creating samples
First, develop a group of sample documents that represent what the end user typically prints. This is the best
method for determining if a printer is suited to your environment.
Note It is important to test files like those that a typical user will print. Most print samples included with a
printer have been optimized for that printer and may not reflect the type of output you will receive.
When evaluating performance, your print samples should include multiple documents and file types, each
created in the applications that will be used by the end user. The samples should have different elements
(text, graphics, and photographic images) and should vary in complexity and page length. Some suggested
content includes simple text documents, mixed text and graphics, and complex graphics containing
photographic images.
CAUTION! Using only one application or file can skew test results. Use several types of files and
applications to present a broad and realistic performance picture.
Different manufacturers provide different print modes (such as HP FastRes 1200). Try to compare similar
modes to achieve a fair comparison.
To evaluate the print quality and speed of text documents, such as those created in Microsoft® Word and
Excel, you should print them in different print modes. Documents such as newsletters intended for circulation
or image files, where photo quality is desired, are preferably printed in the best mode.
When evaluating more than one printer, it is crucial that you make a fair comparison between printers.
• Print from identical computer systems to ensure speed variations are not due to differences in processing
power.
• Print the same files on all printers, using the same paper type and the same or equivalent settings. All
print modes need to be tested separately for each printer and compared respectively.
• Use the same operating system and software application and test comparable print drivers. (Each of
these components interacts with the printing process and can affect performance.)
Simple—text only
Mixed—from complex text
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