Gestetner DSm520pf Toner Cartridges

Gestetner DSm520pf Printer Review

The Gestetner DSM520PF is a multifunction laser printer capable of print, copy, fax, and scan functions. It is designed for small offices or workgroups who need the capability of multiple machines consolidated into one unit. The unit is capable of copying and scanning at a resolution of 600 dpi, thought scanning can reach 4,800 dpi with interpolation. The average user will not need to go above 600 dpi scanning, however, as it is overkill for most purposes.

The device includes a USB 2.0 connection as well as an ethernet network port. The ethernet port allows the machine to be easily shared by any PCs connected to the network. With the included software installed on network-connected PCs, it is easy to view the unit's status, change settings, and manage print jobs remotely.

The machine also features network-scanning, allowing users to scan directly from the unit to a PC connected to the network. Combined with the automatic document feeder, this makes scanning multi-page documents easy, a bonus for offices attempting to digitize large amounts of paper documents for archival purposes. The usual fax features are included, such as G3 compatibility, 33.6 kbps speed, and up to 4 mb of memory. Print speed is fast, around 20 pages per minute, and copy speed is also rated at the same 20 pages per minute, though scanning the original document adds a slight delay before the first copy prints.

The machine includes a starter cartridge with a capacity of 3,500 pages, but the standard printer toner cartridge yields 5,000 pages. The unit supports all modern versions of Windows, but does not include Mac or Linux support. Though this may not be an issue for most office environments, the growing number of Mac and Linux machines in the workplace may steer some buyers away.

Overall, the Gestetner DSM520PF is a very capable multifunction device with solid speed and print quality. All the major features are included, and the ability to replace multiple devices with one multifunction device will be appealing to many.