IT-Review

Panasonic UF-7000 Network Fax-Printer

Capable of scanning at 1.4 seconds per sheet and printing up to 15 ppm, the Panasonic UF-7000 is a great fit for the niche between the fax and MFP product categories.

The UF-7000's wingless design will appeal to users who need to conserve space

The UF-7000 comes with a built-in Ethernet LAN port, enabling the device to double as a reliable back-up network printer right out of the box. (Network printing is typically offered only as an option on fax devices in this segment.) A standard USB 1.1 interface also allows direct connection to a dedicated PC for use as a local printer.

The UF-7000's standard 600 x 600 dpi print quality can be improved to 1200 dpi-equivalent x 600 dpi by adding the optional PCL printer module. And with its 100-sheet automatic document feeder, the UF-7000 optimizes document delivery and enhances productivity.

Panasonic's new fax can be upgraded with MFP-type functions such as scan-to-email and network scanning, which ensures that virtually any kind of document -- even handwritten notes and sketches -- can be digitized, converted to a PDF or TIFF file, then sent to a networked PC. In fact, the UF-7000 is referred to as a "PDF-maker" because of its ability to scan, create and send PDF files.

When the first page of a multipage fax is scanned, the UF-7000 begins dialing while additional pages are being scanned. Super G3 transmission with JBIG compression image coding can take place in as few as 2.7 seconds per letter-size page, saving time and increasing productivity.

Duplex scanning and printing in fax mode is available. Just feed the first side of each page, then turn the document over and feed the other side. The document is stored, transmitted and printed in duplex at the destination site, provided the receiving fax has duplex capability.

With an optional SD memory card, the UF-7000's standard 3MB memory expands to an impressive 512MB. Users can store and auto-dial up to 1,000 addresses. Accessing stored phone numbers and email addresses is easy using Quick Name Search. Just type in the first letter of the recipient's name on the QWERTY keyboard, scroll through the listings appearing on the display, and select the contact name.

For users with a Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP) server, the UF-7000 functions as an LDAP client, providing easy access to fax as well as email addresses on a mail server. Panasonic also doubled the number of one-touch fax numbers and email addresses on the UF-7000 from 40 to 80.

The UF-7000's wingless design will appeal to users who need to conserve space. There are no trays hanging off the sides, making it easy to fit in tight spaces. Its footprint is just 17.7"w x 16.5"d x 17.6"h. The UF-7000 also has one of the most user-friendly control panels in its segment. The keyboard is laid out just like a computer, with raised keys that make it easier to input data.

Panafax Desktop and Panasonic Document Management System (P-DMS) software give the UF-7000 efficient, powerful document management and processing capabilities. Using Panafax Desktop, a fax can be transmitted directly from a PC. And with P-DMS, documents can be edited and scanned documents can be shared right from the desktop using simple drag-and-drop operation.

An easy-to-use graphical printer driver offers full control of versatile print functions right from the desktop. The network status monitor lets users see print job status, paper jams, device configuration and more.

Check & Call lets the user stay ahead of the preventive maintenance curve by automatically reporting low-toner status and certain mechanical problems to a service center. The Remote Diagnostics System enables expert off-site technicians to quickly troubleshoot and provide solutions via telephone line or the Internet.

One thing this high-end fax-printer does not come with is a high-end price tag. The UF-7000 carries an MSRP of $2,095.

Panafax UF-7000 Features: