The HP LaserJet Pro M1212nf is an entry-level monochrome multifunction printer that cuts just a couple of edges on its way to supplying print, copy, check, and fax functionality for only $200. Integrated auto-duplexing for double-sided printing and Wi-Fi networking are 2 features that didn't make the cut. Yet, there are lots of beneficial features, including a 35-sheet automatic document feeder (ADF) and HP's Smart Install application, which makes configuration a breeze.
They also found the LaserJet Pro M1212nf's print speed and quality to be more than adequate, even if text isn't quite as deep and rich as the result from the HP LaserJet Pro P1606dn. With its low cost, compact size, and very easy configuration, the M1212nf is a great choice as an initial multifunction laser printer for office and local businesses.
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HP LaserJet Pro M1212nf Review
Layout and attributes
The HP LaserJet Pro M1212nf is matte black, lending it a bit more of a consumer inkjet appearance than your typical grey or beige company printer. It's likewise small and light for a printer, measuring 12 inches high, 17 inches wide, and 10.5 inches deep, and weighing 18 extra pounds. Two cutouts on each side serve as handles, adding to the printer's portability. As is frustratingly common, HP does not include a USB or Ethernet cord in the box.
HP's Smart Install application makes it straightforward to set up the LaserJet Pro M1212nf. Plug it into a wall, connect it to your COMPUTER (via USB), turn on the printer, and a few mouse clicks later, you're done.
Smart Install loads drivers and software applications kept in the printer's memory. After running our tests on a Windows 7machiner, we tried linking it to a MacBook and found that Smart Install did not work, which is why HP likewise throws a CD into the package.
Setting up the printer with an Ethernet cable is virtually as easy as connecting it directly. As with USB installation, you can use either the included CD or Smart Install. We opted for the latter.
First, you have to print an arrangement record using the printer's control panel by pressing the arrangement switch (the one with the wrench symbol), then using either of the arrow keys to select "Reports" from the Main menu, and finally selecting "Config report." The printer will print two web pages of setup details, one of which lists the printer's IP address.
Type the address into the browser of a computer on your network, and on the resulting Web page, click the HP Smart Install tab. From there, click the eco-friendly Download switch to install the software. After a quick download, the printer will print an examination page confirming it's connected to your network.
After you set up the HP LaserJet Pro M1212nf, you'll discover it's a thoughtful officemate. Energy Star-qualified, it doesn't waste electrical energy, and it's fairly quiet during operation.
During operation, a two-line LCD standing display keeps you informed, together with three condition lights. A numeric pad rests below the LCD display, and there are also two buttons for beginning a copy or fax job.
There isn't a check switch, making scanning a two-trip procedure: place the materials to be checked on the flatbed scanner, return to your workdesk to start the scan, then head back to the scanner to fetch the checked documents. Luckily, the LaserJet Pro M1212nf is compact, so you'll likely find a place for it beside your workdesk.
The LaserJet Pro M1212nf can print in either 600-dots-per-inch or 1,200 dpi modes. A 150-sheet paper tray protrudes from the front of the printer, and a 35-sheet ADF rests above the flatbed scanner/copier at the top of the equipment. If your workplace prints large quantities each day, you'll find yourself refilling the paper tray commonly; 150 sheets is not a lot of paper.
The HP LaserJet Pro 1606dn, a budget-friendly single-function mono laser, holds 250 sheets. The ADF is an extremely hassle-free function for active workplaces. We would have liked to see an integrated duplexer; however, we understand that an entry-level model can't have it all.
HP rates the printer's regular monthly duty cycle at 8,000 web pages, though the recommended monthly volume is 250 to 2,000. A substitute printer toner cartridge for the LaserJet Pro M1212nf costs $68 and yields 1,600 pages, which works out to an affordable 4.2 cents per sheet.
Do note that the initial cartridge, as HP calls it, included with the printer is not fully filled. Large workplaces trying to find a shared workhorse will certainly need to spend more on more durable equipment, with a longer task cycle, higher-capacity toner, and lower cost-per-page figures.
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Control board
The control board, which can be locked in any one of four settings, is neatly designed with a 2-line by 16-character mono LCD, 3 sign lights, a numerical pad for entering telephone numbers, and a collection of 11 other buttons to regulate food selection navigation, check and copy parameters.
The paper input tray folds beneath the device's front panel, and HP offers a paper stop extender if you intend to load short paper. The equipment can take anything from 76 x 127 mm up to something larger than A4. Paper feeds out to a tilted paper rest over the input tray, which needs to be expanded if you do not want documents to spill onto the flooring
There's no cover to the input tray, which is a little strange, as you're much less likely to eliminate paper and close an all-in-one between print tasks than you are with an individual printer.
Connectivity & Maintenance
At the back are outlets for USB 2.0, Ethernet, a phone line, and an optional third-party mobile. To install the integrated drum and toner cartridge, you lift the scanner section, which is supported by a strong spring. This admits to the top of the printer, which folds up to give access to the cartridge. Given the equipment's density, installing and replacing cartridges is very easy.
HP provides drivers for Windows and OS X, and information for Linux users is given at www.hplip.net. There's the HP Toolbox applet and a TWAIN driver for the scanner, yet other support software programs are fairly meagre.
