IATSD Critical Test Report – Panasonic WORKio DP-C401
Page 21
2003
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INDUSTRY ANALYSTS, INC.
Conclusion
The Panasonic WORKiO DP-C401 performed exceptionally well in testing. Indeed, it produced black-and-white
image quality that was better than that produced by many black-and-white
only
devices tested. At the same time,
the WORKiO DP-C401’s color image quality and productivity was better than that of many color workgroup
devices as well. Note, however, that the WORKiO DP-C401’s prints have a less glossy appearance (are more
“matte”) than prints produced by some other color laser devices.
The Panasonic WORKiO DP-C401 was also supremely easy to use, as it is equipped with the best user interface
IATSD has seen to date among color MFPs. It is also exceptionally easy to deploy and manage, as it is easy to
install on the network, there is minimal software to install and support, and users will require minimal support and
training on its use.
As with all office imaging devices, in testing, the unit had several minor weaknesses:
1. Warm-up time is longer than that of black-and-white MFPs.
2. When printing in color, the unit pauses at random intervals in order to calibrate one or more of the color drum
units. This happens with other color MFPs, but not with other black-and-white MFPs.
3. With the Panasonic DP-C401, there are potential cost and/or management considerations due to the fact that a
full color page can cost upwards of 8.9¢. Of course, keep in mind that the WORKiO DP-C401’s black-and-
white supply cost per page is comparable to that of black-and-white MFPs.
4. There is no bi-directional communication in the print drivers so users have to consult the excellent
Internet
Services
printer Web page for device status and configuration information.
All things considered, the WORKiO DP-C401 is as close to being a perfect color MFP that IATSD has evaluated
to date. Several options would only enhance the unit, including the addition of a manual energy-save key, saddle-
stitch booklet-making finisher option and document three-hole punch option. Network scanning with send-to-e-
mail, authentication and LDAP-compatibility would also be desirable.
