HP Designjet 820 Ink Cartridges

HP 820 Printer Review

The HP DesignJet 820 is also referred to as the 820MFP because it bundles popular office functions like printing, scanning and copying capabilities into one device. The 820 is designated as a large-format device, which means that it can handle a maximum paper width of 42 inches and a flexible range of media types. The device's output speeds vary depending on how complex a job is, but in Fast mode it can print up to 85 square feet per hour. The unit's ability to support an assortment of media, its intuitive user interface and its long-lasting DesignJet 820 printer ink make it ideal for small offices with projects like graphic designs, photos and blueprints.

As with many large-format inkjet units, the 820 has a large size of 80x40x63 inches. However, it provides a stand for easy walk-up use and wheels that will allow users to easily push it from one end of the office to another. The unit's built-in ethernet interface means it can be networked to multiple computers for quick sharing and network printing from desktops.

The 820's 15-inch color touchscreen display offers a unique array of features, such as a CD reader on the side that will enable users to save files directly to a disc. Users will also be able to access tools that allow for standalone copying, as well as popular scan and print functions and the status of paper supplies and HP 820 printer ink levels.

The device operates with a dual paper handling system that can support single cut sheets of media and one paper roll. Also incorporated is an automatic cutter to separate a project from the roll with exact precision and a bin on the bottom to catch finished jobs. Support for media is versatile, including translucent bond, natural tracing paper, vellum, film and coated paper.

Using PhotoREt image enhancement technology, this device is able to print color and monochrome documents with sharp detail and a maximum resolution of 2400x1200 dpi using DesignJet 820 ink. Black, cyan, yellow and magenta colors are separated into individual HP 820 ink cartridges that can be inexpensively replaced with remanufactured supplies. Each color replacement can yield up to 1,400 pages and the black HP 820 ink cartridge lasts up to 1,750 pages, which will enable the device to handle medium volumes.

Architects, graphic designers and professional photographers shopping for a device that can print large-format documents and occasionally scan or copy jobs will benefit from the 820's user-friendly design and sharp output. While this inkjet printer has a moderately expensive price tag, offices that have frequent color or monochrome jobs and the space to use it should consider this high-end multifunction printer.