IT & MCIS

DEFINITION OF STANDARD:
Printers are output devices that provide users with paper copies of letters, presentations, technical drawings and other printable materials.

Network laser printers are evolving as multi-function devices, with the ability to fax, document scanning and copying services.

RATIONALE: Shared network printing resources will continue to be a need in most office environments. Standardization reduces the number of different device drivers and minimizes troubleshooting efforts. A network printer available in a workgroup setting, is the preferred approach.

PUBLICATION DATE: 6/9/03
REVIEW DATE: 6/30/04
REVIEW CYCLE: 6 months
RESPONSIBLE CONTACT: Contact the Information Technology Customer Service Center at 257-1300 or send email to helpdesk@uky.edu.

Recommended Standard(s):
Printers must be network enabled, support Postscript functionality and include PCL Level 6 or higher support. Minimum of 32 MB RAM

Recommended Product(s):
Lexmark Optra T series

Justification:
Hewlett Packard and Lexmark provide industry-standard printers with all required functions and features, including support for both Postscript and Printer Control Language (PCL) print output.

Technical Considerations:
The total cost of printing should always be examined in detail - supplies will be the highest cost of operation for the life cycle of the product. There will continue to be a need for both cut sheet and continuous feed printers. Color print will be a requirement in some environments. While color-printing costs should continue to decrease, color printer operating costs will continue to be higher. Therefore, departments should carefully evaluate the need for color. Departments should also consider increasing memory requirements if graphics intensive output is required. Both approved product vendors offer multi-function devices (print, fax, scan, and copy) that provide a solution for a multi-function stand-alone device in a small office setting. Departments should carefully consider these MFD products and their total cost of ownership.

For more information:
Personal printer information is available from the Microsoft compatibility list for a listing of compatible printers with Windows XP. You may also visit the University of Kentucky Computer Store at http://www.uky.edu/FiscalAffairs/Stores/ComputerStore.