Oki MB290
Versatile all-in-one for the cost conscious
Agentless Backup is Not a Myth
Review First a confession: we have always been troubled by the concept of black-and-white multifunctional devices (MFDs). Being able to scan in colour but print only in mono seems rather like being given a punnet of strawberries that you are only allowed to smell. However, Oki clearly feels there continues to be demand for this level of product and, given the company’s long history in the MFD market, we were willing to be won over by its new MB290.
Oki’s MB290: mono printing keeps it compact compared to colour equivalents
It is, after all, a proper MFD that provides extensive multi-user fax features in addition to scanning, 20ppm LED printing and copying. It also has a network port for workgroup use, a built-in web-based management utility and an automatic document feeder (ADF) as standard. Even without the luxury of colour printing, that’s not bad for £210. Despite the large overall dimensions of 412x447x386mm, the MB290 is a compact device with a relatively small footprint and weighing just 13kg.
A single 250-sheet paper cassette is loaded into the front at the base of the unit. Although the front of the cassette sits flush with the front of the machine, the rear end of the cassette sticks out a few centimetres at the back – uncovered and steadily collecting dust. There is no paper level indicator. Above the paper cassette is a single-sheet manual feeder slot with smooth-sliding width guides. Envelopes pass through unfettered and without wrinkling.
The large hinged opening at the front of the MB290 is a door to the internal workings of the printer. The toner and drum are designed as a single unit, and this is quick and easy to remove and replace, with absolutely no clips or locks to worry about. A high-capacity print cartridge for the MB290, costing £126, is good for 5,500 pages. This works out at about 2.3p per page, not including the cost of the paper.
A 50-sheet output tray sits on the top of the main body of the unit, with the scanning apparatus above it. The latter provides a full A4 glass flatbed, while its lid incorporates an ADF that can be loaded with up to 50 single-sided sheets.
Solid sender: The ADF feels robust and has an impressive 50 sheet maximum capacity
USB 2.0 and 10/100 Ethernet ports are provided as standard for connecting to your computer or network, along with a socket for your fax line and a ‘thru’ socket to connect an optional phone handset of your own. You can upgrade the device for Wi-Fi connectivity by buying an optional LAN USB key for £30.
COMMENTS
MFD?
Hurrah, another useless TLA. Why not MFOD, with O for Office, then you'd have a general idea what it is.
I possess many different MFDs: one that works as both a diary, a typewriter and a thesaurus (my pc, or the MFDD with D for data); one for doing DIY (my toolbox, AKA the MFRD with R for repairs); one for cooking, washing and cleaning (the missus, or MFHD with H for household); and a medicine chest for improving happy occasions and removing sad ones (the wine cellar, or MFAD with A for alcohol).
Color printing? Why?
I just buyed a low cost multifunction laser printer because after many years, I realised that I don't need to print in color or at least no more than 2-3 time a year. In the worst case, there is always a copy-center nearby where I can have high quality prints. I think that people who complain about the lack of color greatly overestimate the need for the vast majority of uses.
@Tim Roberts
It mentions the inclusion of a network port on the first page.
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