Printer capabilities and speed are factors to consider when selecting a printer. The speed of a printer is
measured in pages per minute (ppm). Printer speed varies between makes and models. Speed is also
affected by the complexity of the image and the quality desired by the user.
Color or black and white
A computer monitor produces colors through the additive mixing of dots that are displayed
on the screen. The dots produce the color range using red, green, and blue (RGB) dots.
Quality
The quality of printing is measured in dots per inch (dpi). The larger the dpi number, the better the
image resolution. When the resolution is higher, text and images are clearer.
Realiability
A printer should be reliable. Because so many types of printers are on the market, research the specifications of
several printers before selecting one.
Warranty
Identify what is covered within the warranty.
Schedule servicing
Servicing is based on expected usage. Usage information is in the
documentation or on the manufacturer’s website.
Mean time between failures
The printer should work without failing for an average length of time. This information is in the
documentation or on the manufacturer's website.