Performance 9
When evaluating more than one printer, it is crucial that you make a fair comparison between printers.
• Print the same files on all printers, in the same operating environment (constant temperature and
humidity), using the same computer, operating system, software application, print settings or modes, and
paper type to test all printers. Be sure to test comparable print drivers. Each of these components interacts
with the printing process and can affect print speed and quality.
• Test more than one software application to make sure software/driver conflicts are not affecting print
quality.
• If printers are networked, use the same client and an isolated or controlled network to provide a
repeatable environment. You can use a sniffer on your network to record the amount of network traffic
being generated and make sure it is consistent when testing each printer.
What to measure
Different testing methods can be employed to gauge the performance of the HP LaserJet P2030 Printer series.
The following tests are commonly used:
Click-to-drop The total print time, from the time the print command is issued, to completion of printing.
Return-to-application The time from initiating the print command, to the time when the computer is available for other
tasks.
Pick-to-drop The print time, from the instant the first piece of paper is picked up by the device, to completion of
printing.
Device warm-up + calibration The time from turning the device on to the time when the device enters the Ready state. (This time
usually includes warming-up the device, calibration, and booting up the device firmware.)
Warm-up time The time it takes the device to warm up and print a simple document, after the device has been
idle for one hour.
First page out The time from initiating the print command to the completion of the first page. Measure this from a
variety of engine conditions, such as Ready or low power mode.
Running the tests
Follow the guidelines below when measuring device performance:
• Be sure to measure the amount of time it takes to print a complete document. (For example, you might
print a 20-page document, with a cover page printed on heavier paper.)
• Perform each test three times to obtain an average. If the variances in the three tests are too much,
discard the results, check the system, and redo the tests.
• If the printer offers more than one I/O port, perform tests using each port.
• When comparing the performance of printers, look beyond the speed trial data and consider the
acceptability of the output. There are definitely tradeoffs in print quality, but as you review your results,
look at the samples and consider whether the quality meets your standards. For output quality evaluation
guidelines, see page 13.
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