Warm: Optra E312

[AlphaVMS]

I needed to buy a new laser printer to replace my old laser printer. I need a printer that speaks PostScript (for my VMS systems), so I was considering the Optra E312. Following a hint on the LinuxPrinting.org Support Database I checked out the Optra E312L. It seems that quite a few of these printers ($299 list) are actually Optra E312 printers ($399 list). The difference is the E312 has 4MB instead of 2MB of RAM and PostScript (in addition to PCL6). I bought one at BestBuy after verifying their display model was a relabeled E312 and when I set up my printer it was a relabled E312 as well. I've verified the PostScript printing works. If you are in need of a new printer and want PostScript check out the E312L. You may get lucky, too.

 

[bambam]

Thanks for the tip. I need a new laser printer to replace my trusty old Epson AL1500. I am not impressed with the HP1100xi models (even at $299) and the new little Samsung ML-4500,ML-4600 models are just too new. I wonder how one can tell (any clues ?) what your getting (312L/312) without opening the 312L box as it seems I can only find the Lexmark laser printer at Best Buy and CompUsa who both have the 15% "open box" policy. BTW, where did you purchase yours ?

 

[AlphaVMS]

You can tell the type of the display model by quickly pushing the button (don't hold it in; that resets the printer). This will print out the setup sheet. On mine the header says "Lexmark Optra E312" and not "Lexmark Optra E312L", and the "Printer Information" will list the memory as 4MB instead of 2MB. There will also be a "POSTSCRIPT MENU" listed, which I doubt would be on the E312L since it doesn't have PostScript.

I bought mine at BestBuy. I asked the salesman if the printers in the box were the same as the display and he said they were, except they would only guarantee printers would have 2MB RAM since that's what it said on the box. I decided to take a chance. I figured that if the printer was an E312L I could return it without paying the 15% fee since it wouldn't have PostScript, which the display model did.

Of course, "Your Mileage May Vary".

 

[Fanitron]

I was looking for a new laser printer about a month ago, and I came upon the same model. However, I read that the E312L comes with a STARTER cartridge, which is good for about 1k sheets. The E312 comes with a normal cartride, which is good for 6k. The $100 price difference is mostly in that, since a catridge costs like $125. I would buy the E312 to be sure you get the 4MB and PS support, since it doesn't really cost extra when you have to buy a new cartridge for the E312L. Personally, I got the E312 refurbished from Lexmark for $300, and it has worked beautifully for a couple weeks.

 

[bambam]

Fanitron - I agree that the 312 may justify a little more $ to eliminate the risk on getting the 312 in a 312l box and get the full load toner. I like your i $ 300.00 price for the 312 however buying refurbs for less than dirt cheap makes me queezy.

 

[AlphaVMS]

The cartridge is a 1.5K starter, so you'd spend about the same as the E312, but if you need one, you'll find the E312L easier than the E312 in the chains. For laser printers I prefer to buy local rather than getting one shipped to me. I also needed one quickly, which does rule out mail order.