A Beginner’s Guide To The Lexmark Z 31 Inkjet
The simplistic design of the Lexmark Z 31 inkjet printer is typified by the presence of just two control buttons and respective lights - for power and paper feed. The shape and styling too is in keeping with the modest dimensions of this entry level product, and is clearly very much rooted in the era of a decade ago when it first came on the market. It runs on the Lexmark Z 31 ink.
As with most printers in the Lexmark range, the Lexmark Z 31 inkjet is simple to install. Once hooked up to the computer and the mains outlet, it is but a matter of minutes until you can start to print. The drivers may need to be downloaded but once installed, the auto set-up regime and test printing, will allow you to get under way in about 20 minutes.
As indicated earlier, there are certainly no bells and whistles offered with the printer. Many newer models have huge capacity paper bins, and intricate feeders to satisfy anything that is asked of them of course. That is not quite what you get with the Z 31. A simple top loading paper tray, with a capacity of just 100 sheets is provided. There are no upgrades available to boost this, though it does also allow for envelope and photographic printing. Resolution is an impressive 2400dpi, (1200×1200), in both color and monochrome printing.
The highest resolution is only available in the highest setting, and whilst quality of text is excellent, and photos near laser quality, the speed of printing is exceptionally slow. The speed can be increased significantly, (up to 8ppm) by employing the “Quick Print” mode, which works well for text documents. However, colors do fade noticeably, and is not good enough for all but the smallest of images.
The printer is compatible with any Windows operating system, though drivers will have to be downloaded prior to installation. The Lexmark Z 31 is further let down by its connectivity options - or lack of them. With no USB connection, or even serial connection, this is clearly an old printer relying only on a parallel interface.
There are some saving graces for the Lexmark Z 31 however, as it retains some nice features. It was one of the first printers to be given Lexmark’s “Accu-Feed” paper handling system, to minimize blockages for example.
The compact design, and economy of the Lexmark Z 31 are also to be admired, particularly as cutting down on energy use is key for most people these days. Another benefit comes from the drivers themselves, which give a useful audible update on print progress. Very useful considering the sluggish speed! Be sure to only use Lexmark Z 31 ink with this product.