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Like some of Hewlett-Packard's other ink-jet models, the 712C uses a space-saving case design that fits neatly on most desks. Paper enters the printer from a 100-page input tray, which extends horizontally from the front, and exits directly over the top into an output tray. The input tray's adjustable guides allow for legal-size paper, envelopes, and special-size media as narrow as 3 inches. This tray also pulls out to allow for easy reloading. Consistent with Hewlett-Packard's latest designs, the DeskJet 712C features a switch that allows the input tray to handle continuous banner paper.
Loading ink into the DeskJet 712C couldn't be simpler. When you lift the cover, the ink cartridges automatically move to the center of the unit for easy access. Side-by-side black and tricolor cartridges insert securely using obvious green release levers. Because cartridges contain both the ink reservoir and nozzle, they won't make a mess when you change them.
Black text prints at up to 600 x 600 dpi, and the unit uses Hewlett-Packard's Photo Ret II technology to provide brilliant color. The DeskJet 712C's output is impressive for the printer's price. Text is crisp with smooth curves, and photographic output is well balanced and realistic. Because no application software is included with the DeskJet 712C, you'll need your own programs to design colorful creations. But if you're just looking for a way to add quality output to your system, this is a wise and affordable solution.
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To set up the printer, we inserted the single, tricolor cartridge (a second, black cartridge is an optional extra), loaded the printer driver--which supports any version of Windows from 98 on or Mac OS from 8.2--and the Z25 was ready to go. The driver is well-designed and offers useful information, such as ink level and automatic detection of cartridge replacement. It also speaks to you with progress and error messages.
In our tests, without a black cartridge, black text came out looking dark brown, rather than truly black, and because the printer must lay down all three colours, the print speed was low. A standard five-page text document took nearly 5 minutes to print, giving the Z25L a real-world print speed of just over 1 page per minute (ppm), far less than the rated 9 ppm black and 6 ppm color. It's best to invest in the second cartridge.
A 3-by-5-inch photo came out surprisingly well. Although we saw some dithering in areas of steady tone, the colors were bright, if not completely accurate. The 1,200 x 1,200 dpi resolution is high enough for most needs but is realized only on premium photo papers. The print time, at just over 3 minutes, is pretty good, particularly for a printer in this price range.
The Z25L comes with a one-year exchange warranty, during which time Lexmark will swap out any faulty device. It has a heavy duty cycle of up to 2,000 pages per month and is comparatively quiet in operation. Overall, the Lexmark Z25 represents very good value for money. --Simon Williams
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Just press the Power button and get to work, thanks to the printer's helpful Quick Start design. Copies come out crisper than ever with the system's Dual Color Gamut Processing Technology. Compatible with Windows Vista, Windows XP, Windows 2000, and Mac OS X 10.2.8 to 10.4.x8 operating systems, this printer comes backed by a 1-year limited manufacturer's warranty.
What's in the Box
Pixma MP970 photo all-in-one printer, cross sell sheet, easy setup instructions, quick start guide, setup software and user's guide CD-ROM, user's guide, PGI-5 black ink tank, CLI-8 (cyan/magenta/yellow) ink tank, power cord, print head, and sample media (8.5-by-11.5-inch sheets).
