The world of dot matrix printers is a niche but still relevant market, particularly for businesses and individuals who require high-volume printing, multi-part forms, and durable output. Two popular models from Epson, a renowned manufacturer of printing solutions, are the FX-890II and LQ-590II. In this comparison, we'll delve into the features, specifications, and differences between these two dot matrix printers to help you decide which one best suits your needs.
Introduction to Dot Matrix Printers
Before diving into the specifics of each model, it's essential to understand the concept of dot matrix printers. These devices use a print head that moves back and forth, striking an ink ribbon against the paper to create characters and images. Dot matrix printers are known for their reliability, speed, and ability to handle high-volume printing, making them ideal for applications such as printing receipts, invoices, and multi-part forms.
Epson FX-890II
The Epson FX-890II is a high-performance dot matrix printer designed for demanding environments. It boasts a print speed of up to 680 characters per second (cps) in draft mode and 350 cps in letter quality mode. This model features a robust 24-pin print head, which provides crisp and clear output with a resolution of 240 x 144 dpi.
The FX-890II has a paper handling capacity of up to 7-part forms (original + 6 copies) and can accommodate cut sheets, continuous paper, and envelopes. It also supports a range of interfaces, including USB, parallel, and serial connections.
Epson LQ-590II
The Epson LQ-590II is another high-end dot matrix printer from Epson, designed for heavy-duty printing applications. This model offers a print speed of up to 529 cps in draft mode and 261 cps in letter quality mode. The LQ-590II features a 24-pin print head with a resolution of 240 x 144 dpi, similar to the FX-890II.
In terms of paper handling, the LQ-590II can manage up to 6-part forms (original + 5 copies) and supports various paper types, including cut sheets, continuous paper, and envelopes. This model also features a range of interfaces, including USB, parallel, and serial connections.
Comparison of Key Features
Here's a summary of the key differences between the Epson FX-890II and LQ-590II:
- Print Speed: The FX-890II has a slightly faster print speed than the LQ-590II in both draft and letter quality modes.
- Paper Handling: The FX-890II can handle 7-part forms, while the LQ-590II is limited to 6-part forms.
- Resolution: Both models have the same resolution of 240 x 144 dpi.
- Interfaces: Both models support USB, parallel, and serial connections.
- Noise Level: The FX-890II has a slightly lower noise level than the LQ-590II, making it more suitable for quiet environments.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the Epson FX-890II and LQ-590II are high-performance dot matrix printers designed for demanding printing applications. While they share many similarities, the FX-890II has a slightly faster print speed and can handle 7-part forms, making it more suitable for heavy-duty printing environments. On the other hand, the LQ-590II is still a reliable and efficient printer that offers excellent output quality and a range of interfaces.
Ultimately, the choice between these two dot matrix printers depends on your specific needs and requirements. If you prioritize speed and paper handling capacity, the FX-890II may be the better option. However, if you're looking for a more affordable solution with still-excellent performance, the LQ-590II is definitely worth considering.
