Xerox Phaser

Xerox Phaser
Name	Xerox Phaser
Manufacturer	Xerox
Type	Laser printer
Connectivity	Ethernet, USB
Release date	1999

Xerox Phaser. The Xerox Phaser is a line of color and monochrome laser printers and multifunction printers known for their speed and high-quality output. Introduced in the late 1990s, the series became prominent in office environments for its innovative use of solid ink technology alongside traditional xerography. These devices are engineered for demanding workgroup and departmental printing needs, competing with products from Hewlett-Packard, Canon Inc., and Ricoh.

Introduction

The Phaser line represents a significant segment of Xerox's printing and imaging division, focusing on performance-oriented digital printing solutions. Early models distinguished themselves by utilizing a unique phase-change ink process, which was a departure from conventional toner-based systems used by competitors like Lexmark and Brother Industries. This approach was designed to deliver vibrant color output with a glossy finish, appealing to sectors such as marketing, graphic design, and corporate communications. The printers often feature robust networking capabilities and advanced printer driver software for integration into complex IT infrastructures.

History

The Phaser brand was launched in 1999 with the Phaser 850, a solid ink printer developed from technology acquired from Tektronix, which Xerox purchased that same year. This acquisition allowed Xerox to rapidly enter the high-performance color printing market, competing directly with the HP Color LaserJet series. Throughout the 2000s, the line expanded to include monochrome laser printers, often rebranded from OEM partners like Fuji Xerox. Key developments included the introduction of the Phaser 6000 series, which offered enhanced duplex printing and PostScript support, and later models that incorporated cloud printing services and mobile printing via Apple AirPrint and Google Cloud Print.

Models

The Phaser series encompasses a wide range of models, typically categorized by technology and performance. Early solid ink models included the Phaser 8400 and the Phaser 8560, known for their color consistency. The monochrome laser segment features workhorses like the Phaser 3320 and the network-ready Phaser 4510. High-volume departmental printers, such as the Phaser 5500 and 7500 series, offered increased PPM speeds and large paper capacity. More recent multifunction devices, like the Phaser 6510, combined printing, scanning, faxing, and copying functionalities, competing with all-in-one units from Konica Minolta and Kyocera.

Technology

A defining technological aspect of many Phaser printers is the use of solid ink, a wax-based pigment that is melted and applied directly to the paper or a transfer drum. This method, pioneered by Tektronix, reduces waste and eliminates the need for fuser units required in traditional laser printing. Other models employ standard electrophotography using organic photoconductor drums and laser diodes. Common technological features across the line include advanced RIPs, support for PCL and Adobe PDF print languages, and energy-saving technologies compliant with ENERGY STAR and Blue Angel standards.

Features

Phaser printers are noted for features that enhance productivity and ease of use. Many models offer high-resolution printing, up to 2400 x 1200 DPI, and support for a wide variety of media types including card stock and envelopes. Network management is facilitated through embedded web server interfaces and compatibility with SNMP. Security features often include IPsec, Secure Print, and user authentication protocols to meet the requirements of institutions like government agencies and financial services firms. Integration with enterprise workflow software from companies like Microsoft and SAP SE is also common.

Impact

The Xerox Phaser line had a notable impact on the office equipment market, particularly by popularizing solid ink technology as a viable alternative to laser printing for color applications. It helped Xerox maintain a strong presence in the competitive printing industry against Japanese multinationals like Epson and Sharp Corporation. The series' emphasis on color quality and reliability influenced product development across the sector, pushing rivals to improve their own color laser printer offerings. Furthermore, its departmental printers became a common sight in educational institutions, legal practices, and healthcare facilities, supporting high-volume document production needs.

Category:Xerox Category:Computer printers Category:Office equipment