Creating samples

Evaluation

First, develop a group of sample documents that represent what the end-user typically prints. This is the best method for determining if a product 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 product have been optimized for that product 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.

Simple—text only

Mixed—from complex text to a mixture of text and medium-complexity graphics

Complex—images and advanced graphics (using overlays or fill patterns)

Different manufacturers provide different print quality modes. 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 product, it is crucial that you make a fair comparison between products.

•Print from identical computer systems to ensure speed variations are not due to differences in processing power.

•Print the same files on all devices, using the same paper type and the same or equivalent settings. Print modes need to be tested separately for each device 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.)

14	Evaluating laser all-in-one products