Is PS3 and PCL6 worth $180 on a printer?

[tart666]

I am looking at these printers: 550N, and 500N.

The only difference, as far as I can surmise, is that the more expenseive one (550N) comes with

Processor PowerPC 266 MHz
Memory 128 MB (Standard), 384 MB (Max)
Print Language PCL6, PS3

while the cheaper one has

Processor Samsung SPGPm
Memory 64 MB (Standard), 192 MB (Max)
Print Language SPL-C (GDI Equivalent)

Is this difference worth $180? My budget is $500, if the more ram/ better CPU is worth it, i can get rid of the network and get 550 (not N), and hook it up directly to the server (win 2003) via USB2

PS: here's some pricing info on newegg: Text

(edit: forgot to put in a title, added price)

 

[akira34]

PS3 (postscript 3) and PCL6 are current, widely used, printing protocols/technologies.

I have a Samsung 2151N printer, which comes with PS3 and PCL6 support, as well as duplexing and networking. I can tell you that not having to hit the 'ok' type button is a wonderful thing when printing out some documents (such as those that send files in PS3 format by default).

Having a printer on a network WITHOUT having to depend on a server is also a wonderful thing. It also means, that when maintenance is being done on the server, or it craps out, you can continue to print. For me, if I want to print from system A, I don't have to worry about having Server C running to do so. It also means that I don't have to do all that much to allow others to print when they visit.

Bottom line, if you have the funds to get the 550N, I would. Even if it means you have to wait before ordering up the printer. Chances are, the price will only go down with time.

 

[tart666]

are you saying I will NOT be able to use 500N without a server, since it does NOT support postscript?

Also, I am a little confused about 'having to press OK' after sending a postscipt file...

 

[akira34]

If you send a file from a program (such as illustrator) that works with PS3 natively, then it will tell you you're sending it to a non-postscript printer.

The 'N' version of the printer means it's networked. If you're getting a network printer, then servers can be taken out of the loop. Also, getting a printer that gives you more supported protocols is a GOOD thing.

When I picked up the Samsung printer I have (a black and white model) it came with the duplexer, PS3 support, plus the network hardware preinstalled. Having worked with large, laser, color printers as well, I can tell you that having more options with them is ALWAYS a good thing. Especially since you'll want to get the longest lifespan out of the item. Cutting corners with the printer now usually means that it needs to get replaced sooner rather than later.

 

[Zepper]

PS is nice especially if you work up stuff for typesetters or professional printing.
.bh.

 

[akira34]

Originally posted by: Zepper
PS is nice especially if you work up stuff for typesetters or professional printing.
.bh.

Which is just about all of Adobe's product line... Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, Acrobat, etc.

If you're JUST using m$ Office, then it PS3 won't matter as much. But, you'll want PCL6 support. Since both come on the same printer, it's a good thing.

 

[tart666]

thx for clarification guys... We will be printing mostly powerpoint stuff, so PS3 support is not a business requirement. I understand that it would be nice, but $180 (or 40% increase in price) seems a little much. I will get the 500N at $419.