What You Should Know Hands-On Test Report€¦ · ImageXpert™ Printer 600 dpi Target Version 5.1 ImageXpert™ Test Target EP-PSv1. Northlight Images UK Grayscale Linearization

What You Should Know Hands-On Test Report

Panasonic KX-MB2061

Table of Contents Executive Summary ...............................1 What It Is................................................1 Image Quality.........................................2 Print Functionality .................................4 Copy Functionality.................................5

Scan Functionality .................................6 Fax Functionality ...................................7 Voice Communications..........................7 Ease of Use...........................................10 Print &Fax Drivers...............................13

Client/Management Software ..............17 Hardware Installation...........................27 Software/Network Installation.............27 User Maintenance ................................29 Media Handling ...................................31

Cost Per Page .......................................31 Space/Power/Warranty ........................32 Eco-Friendly Features..........................32 Recommendation .................................33

January 2011 Wirth Consulting, LLC Denville, New Jersey USA www.wirthconsulting.org Page 1

Executive Summary What It Is

Following are Wirth Consulting’s key findings from our Hands-On Test:

The KX-MB2061 effectively consolidates small-office functionality—document imaging, and fax and voice communications—into a single device, eliminating the need for a separate printer, fax machine, answering machine, cordless phone system, etc.

Receive voice and fax communications when you’re out of the office—voice messages can be sent as .wav audio attachments to e-mail addresses, while received faxes can be forwarded to e-mail addresses as Adobe PDFs.

Preview and monitor received voice and fax communications with Web Voice Playback and Web Fax Preview from any computer workstation on the network—no additional software is required.

Automatically route received faxes to your network workstation running Multi-Function Station software—then just print, save, or delete faxes. This saves paper and eliminates having to re-scan received paper faxes in order to store them digitally.

Fast tested print speeds of up to 23.8 ppm, matching Panasonic’s rated print speed of 24 ppm. Tested copy speed was up to 22.7 ppm and was fastest using the flatbed platen. Also of note is the system’s super fast warm-up time of 12.2 seconds from a cold start.

We observed crisp black text and very good grayscale and halftones in print and copy modes that will be sufficient for virtually all typical office-imaging text applications, and most grayscale printing applications. Reproduction of a color photographic image sample was notably superior to that produced by a competitor in this price range.

Software is non-intrusive, works the first time, is easy to install, and doesn’t clutter-up the user’s computer desktop. All of the functionality required is provided, from pull scanning from the computer workstation, to configuring the KX-MB2061’s settings at the workstation. There’s also a full version of Readiris Pro 7 OCR. The Device Monitor utility was able to provide fairly comprehensive feedback on third-party network devices—even providing toner gauges for a third-party color printer.

One thing to note is that because legal-size paper is only accepted via the rear 1-sheet paper feeder, most applications should primarily consist of 8.5”x11” and A4 print and copy applications.

Hardware installation is very fast at just 13 minutes, with minimal packaging and tape to remove when un-boxing. Combined software and installation on the network took less than 10 minutes and is very easy using the automated installation utility.

Very good build quality—for instance, the prop rod used to open the

Panasonic KX-MB2061

“The KX-MB2061 really impressed us with its seamless integration of advanced office imaging with ‘traditional’ voice communication. You get not only network print, copy, network color scan, and fax, but a phone system with advanced voice communication as well. At $249.95, its overall

quality makes it a great deal to begin with, but for any start-up, small or home office that wants to upgrade their imaging/communications hub and their phone system, it’s an outright bargain.” -

Terry Wirth, President, Wirth Consulting.

Imaging Technology: Electrostatic, Laser Maximum Print/Copy Size: 8.5”x14”/A4

Functions: Print, Copy, Scan, Fax, Corded Telephone, Answering Machine, Intercom, DECT

6.0 Cordless Phone System Print Speed: 24 ppm

Suggested Retail Price: $249.95 Availability: Retail

Introduction Date: December 2010

Panasonic System Networks Company of America’s new KX-MB2061 is based on the firm’s KX-MB2030, an A4 monochrome laser MFP, but adds new voice and fax functionality, making it an eight-in-one—there’s not only laser network print, copy, network color scan and Super Group 3 fax,


Panasonic KM-MB2061


Executive Summary What It Is top half of the device is sturdy and automatically activated. The overall system profile is low at just 12” high. There’s also a bona fide paper drawer in lieu of an open paper tray, so that loaded media is kept protected from dust and humidity.

We did not observe any problems throughout installation and testing—for instance, no misfeeding occurred, there was no toner leakage during installation, etc.

but also built-in DECT 6.0 cordless phone system, answering machine, intercom and remote fax and voice-messaging management. Like the KX-MB2030, it’s designed for small offices, as well as micro, satellite and home offices.

IMAGE QUALITY TESTED IMAGE QUALITY In order to evaluate image quality, Wirth Consulting uses: 1. The highest image-quality settings. 2. ImageXpert™ Printer 600 dpi Target Version 5.1. 3. ImageXpert™ Test Target EP-PSv1. 4. Northlight Images UK Grayscale Linearization Test Chart. 5. Synthetic (photographic) test images selected from ISO Internal

Standard 12640 Graphic Technology (Prepress Digital-Data Exchange – CYMK Standard Color Image Data [CYMK/SCID]).

6. Hammermill 100/112+ Euro Bright, 28 lb. Color Copy Paper.

NOTE: Image-quality samples contained in this report are raw TIFF, non-compressed photos that have been recorded using a high-end digital camera. They are intended to provide readers with our best approximation of image quality. However, all Wirth Consulting comments on image-quality are based on a visual examination of the actual printed image-quality samples themselves, not on the photographs.

Imaging Technology: B/W Electrostatic, Laser Maximum Print Resolution: 600 x 600 dpi

STRENGTHS Overall, the KX-MB2061 produced crisp black text

quality and very good grayscale halftones in both print and copy modes. This image quality will be sufficient for virtually all typical office-imaging text applications, and most grayscale printing applications.

Some slight banding was observed when producing color halftones in grayscale. However, as the system is designed primarily for printing black text and grayscale, this is not a concern. We also noted that production of our color photographic image-quality sample had an overall pleasant appearance, and was significantly better than that of a leading competitor in this segment.

LIMITATIONS None.

Image-Quality Originals Used By Wirth Consulting When Evaluating A Device’s Image Quality

ImageXpert™ Printer 600 dpi Target

Version 5.1 ImageXpert™ Test Target EP-PSv1. Northlight Images UK Grayscale

Linearization Test Chart

Synthetic (photographic) test images selected from ISO Internal Standard 12640 Graphic Technology (Prepress Digital-Data

Exchange – CYMK Standard Color Image Data [CYMK/SCID]).


Panasonic KM-MB2061


PRINT-MODE IMAGE QUALITY SAMPLES (RAW TIFF DIGITAL PHOTOS)

Raw TIFF photo of the test target printed by the KX-MB2061 on bright white plain paper. Although there is some slight banding in the halftone area in the young woman’s face, the overall appearance is pleasant.

Raw TIFF photo of the same test target printed by a competitive unit on bright white plain paper. The image sample printed by the KX-MB2061 is more attractive and truer to the original.

When printing the area of the test target that evaluates resolution, the KX-MB2061 was able to produce horizontal and vertical black lines (circled in red) as thin as 3 pt. size, which is typical of office-imaging printers and MFPs in this segment. Despite the fact that this is a monochrome-black printing system, the KX-MB2061 was able to print horizontal and vertical cyan (C), magenta (M), and yellow (Y) lines down to about 3 pt. Most users will not typically be using the system to print color output however.

In the image test sample above, the system was able to produce horizontal and vertical positive and negative lines down to 2 pt., which is typical of systems in this segment and good. In the Dot (Pixel) Quality measurement, it produced approximately 80% of pixels correctly in the 2x2 positive pixel box; 80% of pixels in the 2x2 negative pixel box; 85% of pixels in the 1 pixel positive and negative boxes; and approximately 70% of pixels in the 1 pixel cyan, magenta, and yellow pixel boxes.


Panasonic KM-MB2061


The ability to produce halftones correctly is essential in order to produce accurate grayscale images. The halftone scale circled in red at the top of the image-quality sample to the left represents the KX-MB2061’s ability to produce grayscale images As may be seen, the system was able to produce all 10 shades correctly in distinct steps of 10%, indicating that it will be able to produce grayscale images very well. It was also able to produce the next three shades (yellow, cyan and magenta) fairly well. It produced clear readable negative and positive text down to 4 pt. font size—the smallest font size most office users will every require. Overall, text was crisp and clear and compared well with text produced by other office-imaging printers and MFPs in this segment tested by Wirth Consulting.

COPY-MODE IMAGE QUALITY (Text/Photo Mode)

In the image-quality sample to the left taken in text/photo mode, the system was able to produce the halftone scale in increments of 10 to 120% fairly well, but with little discernable stepping in the lightest and darkest increments. However, a sample taken in photo mode showed much better stepping between these increments. Overall reproduction of text was very good, with distinct, readable text down to even 4 pt. font size. In all copy modes, the handwriting samples reproduced in different colors (circled in red) were also distinct and readable, and the Copier Test Pattern was also correctly reproduced.

PRINT PRODUCTIVITY AND FUNCTIONALITY

Panasonic rates the KM-MB2061 at up to 24 ppm, and the system is equipped with a 10Base-T/100Base-TX Ethernet interface for network sharing, USB 2.0 port for direct connection, and GDI and Easy Print print drivers. STRENGTHS Fast tested print speeds of up to 23.78 ppm, matching Panasonic’s

rated print speed of 24 ppm. Typically many printers and MFPs must print multiple sets in order to match rated print speed, so the KX-MB2061’s ability to reach 23.78 ppm printing one set was very good.

Print Speed : 24 ppm PictBridge Port: NoMedia Card Slots: No Bluetooth: NoEthernet Networking: Yes* Wireless: NoMax. Print Res.: 600x600 dpi USB Host Port: 2.0Std./Max. Mem. 32/32 MB *10Base-T/100Base-TX Ethernet

Operating Systems Supported Microsoft Windows 2000, XP, Vista, 7; Apple Macintosh OS X 10.3-10.6; Linux


Panasonic KM-MB2061


First Page Out Times as fast as 10.65 seconds, which is very good, particularly for this class.

Standard Ethernet network interface for sharing the system with up to 30 users.

Super fast 12.2 second warm-up time from a cold start enhances productivity. It also saves energy—because the system wakes up fast, it also means you can schedule the system to go into energy-saving sleep mode much faster, for instance, in five minute, thus reducing your energy costs.

Broad operating support—supports Microsoft Windows (including Windows 7), Apple Macintosh, and Linux.

Relatively small file sizes generated.

LIMITATIONS None.

TESTED PRINTING PERFORMANCE (GDI Print Driver- Normal Mode)

Test Document

FPOT (sec.)

Job Time (sec.)

PPM

1-Page Photo 17.20 17.20 3.49 10-Page Adobe Acrobat Color

11.14 37.12 20.79

10-Page Adobe Acrobat Text

11.25 33.96 23.78

10-Page Power Point Color 13.65 47.65 15.88 10-Page B/W Word Text 10.65 36.21 21.13 10-Page B/W Word Duplex**

-- -- --

*Automatic duplexing not available.

GDI PRINT-FILE SIZES (MB)

Test Document Native

File Size Print File

Size 1-Page Photo 2.011 1.29 10-Page Adobe Acrobat Color 0.568 0.80 10-Page Adobe Acrobat Text 0.146 0.82 10-Page Power Point Color 3.641 4.26 10-Page B/W Word Text 0.069 0.81 10-Page B/W Word Duplex 0.069 -- *Automatic duplexing not available.

COPIER PRODUCTIVITY AND FUNCTIONALITY Panasonic rates the KX-MB2061 at 24 ppm in copy mode, and copying is via the 20-sheet automatic document feeder and a flatbed platen.

STRENGTHS Tested copy speed up to 22.66 ppm, virtually matching Panasonic’s

rated print speed of 24 ppm. Copying was fastest using the flatbed platen.

First Page Out Times as fast as 11.24 seconds; again, this is very good, especially for this class.

Provides most frequently used copy features, including collation, image mode (text, text/photo or photo), proof copy, reduction and enlargement, make up to 99 copies in a single operation, N-Up printing (print multiple pages on a single page), poster printing, etc.

With Quick ID Copy, copy both sides of up to four cards (such as business cards) onto a single sheet.

LIMITATIONS No duplexing automatic document feeder.

Copy Speed: 24 ppm Flatbed Scanner: Yes Auto Doc. Feeder: 20 sheets Collation: Yes Max. Scan Size: 8.5”x23.63”* Zoom: 25-400% (1% increments) Duplexing Doc. Feeder: No Resolution: 600x600dpi *Via automatic document feeder; maximum scan size via flatbed platen is 8.5”x11” and A4.

TESTED COPIER PERFORMANCE (NORMAL MODE)*

Test Document

FPOT (sec.)

Job Time (sec.)

Print Speed PPM

Simplex Black Using Platen

14.15 37.98 22.66

Simplex Black Using ADF

11.24 63.41 10.35

Duplex Black** -- -- -- Duplex Color** -- -- -- *Copy productivity was tested using a 10-page test original composed of B/W and color text with 5% area coverage. **No duplexing automatic document feeder.


Panasonic KM-MB2061


The flatbed platen is only large enough to scan originals up to 8.5” x 11” and A4, so you’ll have to scan longer originals via the document feeder.

Loading the KX-MB2061’s 20-sheet automatic document feeder, which can be used to scan originals up to 8.5” x 23.63”.

SCAN FUNCTIONALITY The KX-MB2061 is equipped with full-color and monochrome scanning. Users can scan to network folders, FTP servers, e-mail addresses, and computer workstations. Scanned documents can be saved as TIFF, JPEG and Adobe PDF files.

Users can send scans directly to an SMTP or POP e-mail server. Alternately, they can send scans to their workstations, where the scanned file(s) is automatically attached to an e-mail message using their default client. For scan to e-mail, e-mail addresses can be manually entered or recalled from a remotely managed address book that holds up to 30 sender/recipient e-mail address combinations. Finally, instead of users having to scroll through a list of e-mail addresses, e-mail addresses can be quickly recalled using a two-character ID code.

The e-mail address book can be managed from the control panel or even more conveniently, remotely managed from a computer workstation, and holds up to 30 sender/recipient e-mail address combinations.

Scanner Type: CIS Scan to Net. Folder: YesColor Scan: Yes Scan to IFax: No Scan to Hard Drive: No Scan to FTP: Yes Flatbed Scanner: Yes Scan to URL: No Optical Resolution.: 600x1200 dpi TWAIN Driver: Yes Interpolated: 9600x9600 dpi LDAP Lookup: No Scan to Workstation: Yes Net. Authentication: No Scan to e-Mail: Yes File Formats: TIFF, JPEG, PDF Auto Doc. Feeder: 20 sheets Duplex Auto Doc Feeder: No Max. Scan Size: 8.5”x23.63”* *Via automatic document feeder; maximum scan size via flatbed platen is 8.5”x14” and A4.

STRENGTHS Scan originals up to 23.63” in length via the ADF. Scan in full color, a capability not always provided in

this segment or even by some much higher-priced, higher-volume office MFPs.

Network scanning for easy sharing of scanned files. Scan to an e-mail addresses from the control panel, or

to the workstation’s default e-mail program. Full version of Readiris 7 OCR software for converting

scanned files into text-editable documents and text-searchable Adobe PDFs.

Panasonic’s Multi-Function Station software provides TWAIN and WIA scan drivers for pull scanning (initiate scanning from a computer workstation). Multi-Function Station software has an easy-to-use, straightforward user interface that we found very easy to use for performing scan-related tasks.

LIMITATIONS None—Wirth Consulting considers the KX-MB2061’s

scan functionality to be state-of-the-art, even when compared to products beyond its price range. We did not experience any difficulties with either scanning from the control panel or from the computer workstation.


Panasonic KM-MB2061


FAX FUNCTIONALITY The KX-MB2061 is equipped with 33.6 kbps Super Group 3 walk fax and PC fax.

Multi-Function Station software enables users to quickly set up fax from the convenience of their computer workstation—above, for instance, it’s easy to enter your company name that will appear on your outbound faxes, and your fax telephone number.

Fax Speed: 33.6 Kbps (3 sec./page) Color Fax: No Junk Fax Block: Yes Fax Memory: 150 pages Error Correction: Yes PC Fax: Yes Broadcasting: Yes Distinctive Ring.: Yes Speed Dial Keys: 6 Corded Handset: Yes Digital Cordless Handset: Yes Fax/Tel. Switch: Yes Auto Redialing: Yes Caller ID: Yes* Auto Fax Reduction: Yes TAM/Fax Mode: Yes

*Requires Caller ID service.

STRENGTHS Good range of fax features, including 150 pages of

fax memory, PC fax, distinctive ring, junk-fax eliminator, broadcasting, fax phonebook, speed-dial keys, etc.

Never miss an important fax—received fax documents can be automatically forwarded to up to six e-mail addresses as Adobe PDF attachments, and thus can be received and read on any e-mail capable smartphone, mobile computing device, etc. that supports the viewing of PDF files.

Automatically route received faxes to your workstation running Multi-Function Station software—then just print, save, or delete faxes. This saves paper and toner, and eliminates having to re-scan received paper faxes in order to store them digitally.

Monitor and preview received faxes at your computer workstation with Web Fax Preview.

With TAM/FAX mode, the answering machine will automatically receive voice calls, while the system will also automatically receive faxes.

Fax address book can be remotely managed. LIMITATIONS None.

VOICE COMMUNICATIONS

The KX-MB2061 is equipped with the following voice-communication features:

Corded telephone handset. DECT 6.0 digital cordless telephone handset. Digital answering system with a total recording time of

approximately 30 minutes. Intercom. Voice-message forwarding.

STRENGTHS Never miss an important voice mail message when

you’re out of the office or on the road—voice messages can automatically be routed to up to six e-mail addresses as .wav file attachments. This means, you can receive voice messages at any e-mail-capable device with .wav audio support, including most smartphones, laptop PCs, etc.

Voice messages can also be automatically forwarded to computer workstations on the local network as .wav audio files—you don’t even have to have a phone extension or leave your desk to listen to voice mail.

Centralized voice phonebook—telephone numbers are centrally managed and shared with the base unit and cordless phones. Up to 100 voice numbers can be stored in the shared phonebook.


Panasonic KM-MB2061


The KX-MB2061 comes equipped with one cordless phone handset equipped with rechargeable batteries and a recharger. You can add up to six additional cordless handsets, which list at $39.95 each.

How does the system receive both fax and voice calls? If the call is a voice call, the answering machine will record the caller’s message automatically. If a fax calling tone is detected, the KX-MB2061 will automatically receive the fax. (You can also configure the KX-MB2061 so that received faxes are sent as PDFs to a

specified PC or e-mail account.) The answering machine provides the classic, “If you would like to send a fax, press transmit now” pre-recorded message; you can also record your own message. There’s also a corded phone handset for receiving and placing voice calls.

Reduce clutter and costs: 1) no need for separate answering machine; 2) no need to pay a monthly voice-mail service charge to your telephone provider; 3) no need for multiple voice/fax/data phone lines.; 4) no phone system or PBX is required in order to handle voice mail and communications for up to seven phone extensions (base plus six optional cordless extensions).

When used by a receptionist for instance, he or she can answer calls using the corded handset, place callers on hold using the Intercom button, and transfer calls to one of the six cordless handsets. Once the Intercom call has been answered, the call is automatically transferred when the receptionist hangs up the phone.

Note: Keep in mind though that while this is an extremely cost-effective and efficient voice communication system, there is only one phone line. This means that your customers may record a lot of voice mail messages if you have one or more heavy land-line users or a lot of fax transmissions taking place. LIMITATIONS No automatic routing (manual routing only) of phone

calls or voice mails to the any of the wireless phone extensions.

With the Auto Answer key, you can configure the KX-MB2061 to automatically receive voice calls and receive faxes only manually, or, alternately, you can configure the KX-MB2061 so that it operates as only a fax machine and does not receive voice calls.

The Playback key circled in red above will glow green when a voice message has been received.

You can forward voice messages to a specified computer workstation or e-mail address. The voice message is then forwarded as a .wav audio file, and the user can listen to it at their workstation or via most smartphones.

The LCD displays who the received message is from (requires Caller ID service). You can simply press the Playback key and listen to the message, or skip the message, as well as replay the message.

After listening to the message, you can then delete it.

You can also forward the voice message to an e-mail address. Alternately, using Panasonic software, you can configure the system so that received voice messages are automatically forwarded to up to six specified e-mail addresses.


Panasonic KM-MB2061


Erase a voice-mail message by pressing the Erase key circled in red. The KX-MB2061’s answering machine comes with a pre-recorded greeting; we found the quality of the message very good, but you can also record your own greeting by pressing the Record key (circled in yellow). The Record key can also be used to record telephone conversations (note—make sure to ask the other caller’s permission before doing so). The Flash key (circled in blue) is used to access special telephone services such as call waiting, and to transfer extension calls.

The Locator/Intercom key serves several purposes. First, you can use it to put a voice call on hold. When you have optional cordless handsets, you can also call other cordless handset, and conduct conversations with users at two other cordless phones along with an outside call. Press the Locator/Intercom key to locate other cordless handsets—the other cordless handsets will beep to indicate their location.

Above is a cordless handset’s display. Receive and listen to voice messages recorded with the answering machine using any of the cordless handsets.

Cordless handsets also conveniently share the same voice-call phonebook as the KX-MB2061, so there’s no need to re-enter telephone numbers twice.

Cordless handsets also display a list of callers.

With Intercom, receive and send voice calls to other cordless users, as well as with an outside caller.

You can also conveniently listen to voice messages recorded by the KX-MB2016’s answering machine at your PC—no need to leave your desk. Just highlight a message in the main panel, and then click on the arrow key to play it (your computer workstation must of course have audio capability).


Panasonic KM-MB2061


EASE OF USE

The KX-MB2061 incorporates an attractive control panel with a glossy finish. It consists of a two-line, 16-character LCD and hard keys. The entire control panel is angled for easier viewing and operation, and it’s stationary, so that when you press on keys, you don’t inadvertently push down the entire control panel. On the far left (circled in red) are prominent keys for the Scan, Copy, and Fax functions. Once you press the Copy or Fax key, use the keys beneath the LCD to make menu selections, for instance, in copy mode, to specify paper size, contrast, zoom, etc., and in Fax mode, to select a fax number stored in the fax phonebook, specify resolution, or enable Caller ID. The four-directional pad in the center of the control panel (circled in yellow) is used to navigate the menu system displayed on the LCD. The numeric keypad is used to enter numbers for fax calls, and voice calls (using the corded telephone).

Press the Scan, Copy or Fax keys (circled in red) to begin using a function.

When in copy mode, use the orange feature labels above the hard keys located beneath the LCD for specifying copy size, contrast, etc. When in fax mode, use the blue feature labels below the keys to specify fax settings, to select a fax number in the fax phonebook, etc.

STRENGTHS Function keys (scan, copy, and fax) are large and

prominently displayed, as are keys in the numeric keypad and the Start and Stop keys, so that users will be able to quickly find them.

The most frequently used settings for the copy and fax functions are presented as color-coded hard keys, so that users do not have to enter the menu system in order to access them.

Overall, the control panel is attractive and modern in design, and is one of the easiest-to-use LCD/hard-navigation key control panels evaluated by Wirth Consulting.

When the user presses the Stop key, printing immediately stops, unlike with some other systems, which will continue printing, wasting time, paper and toner or ink.

LIMITATIONS The LCD is not back-lit; this means users must make

sure adequate lighting is available in order to comfortably read the display.

No QWERTY-style keypad for entering text such as e-mail addresses. However e-mail/FTP folder/SMB folder address books can be created at a workstation, and then selected at the control panel. The e-mail address book accommodates up to 30 sender/recipient e-mail address combinations, while up to six FTP folder locations and up to six SMB folder selections can be stored.


Panasonic KM-MB2061


COPY MODE

To copy and/or enter the copy menu, press the prominent Copy hard key on the left of the control panel. If you’d like to use default settings, just press the Start key to begin copying.

Or use the hard keys underneath the LCD to specify paper size…use the navigation pad to the lower right of the LCD to adjust settings…

…for instance to adjust image contrast…

…and adjust page layout…

Among the Page Layout options is an option to print multiple pages on a single sheet. You can also produce posters—the system automatically enlarges each segment of the page; once the pages are printed, the user then affixes them together to form a poster.

Press the Start key to begin copying; the LCD displays a countdown of copies being printed.

FAX MODE

To fax and specify fax settings, press the large Fax key on the far left. To fax using defaults, you can either press the Phonebook key (circled in red) to select the recipient’s fax number, or press the Quick Scan key (circled in yellow).

With the Quick Scan key, defaults are used, and you enter the fax number using the control panel’s numeric keypad above.

On the left are options for using one-touch keys for sending faxes to pre-set destination fax numbers and groups of pre-set fax numbers. The advantage of course is that you don’t have to spend time manually entering frequently used fax-destination numbers, and you eliminate making mistakes.

Once you’re in fax mode, you can adjust settings such as resolution and contrast.


Panasonic KM-MB2061


Press the Phonebook hard key under the LCD to select the fax phonebook, and scroll through the entries, pressing Set when you’ve located the correct recipient. You can conveniently set up the fax phonebook at your computer workstation using Panasonic software.

When you select from the fax phonebook, the name of the recipient and their fax number is displayed on the LCD display.

Next press the Start key.

The system begins scanning the document for fax transmission.

SCAN MODE

Press the Scan hard key to enter scan mode, and to scan in full-color or black-and-white to network computer workstations, file, OCR software, e-mail, and to Multi-Function Station software’s Viewer application installed on your computer workstation. Viewer is used for receiving and managing scanned files at the computer workstation.

You can scan directly to the Readiris PRO OCR software application installed on your computer workstation.

With scan-to-e-mail, you scan a file to your computer workstation’s default e-mail program. Alternately, you can enter the destination e-mail address using the control panel’s alphanumeric keypad, cycling through the zero key to enter the @ sign (system must be network-connected). After loading the original in the document feeder or placing it on the platen, press the Start key to begin scanning.

MENU MODE

To enter the system menu, press the Menu key (circled in red) beneath the LCD. Note that system defaults and settings can be configured at the computer workstation using software such as the Configuration Web Page, which is generally easier, but may alternately be performed here at the control panel.

The menu system consists of five submenus: Basic Features, Fax Feature, TAM Feature, Copy Feature, PC Print Feature, Scan Feature, and LAN Feature. Use the navigation keypad to scroll through the menus and set defaults for all of these functions.

Adjust the date and time displayed on the LCD, enter your company name or logo that will be displayed on outgoing faxes, language to be displayed on the LCD, etc.

Set copy defaults such as paper size, image mode (text, text/photo or photo), etc.

Set the paper-size default for received print jobs, and data timeout.

Configure network settings, and enable network protocols. These settings can also be configured using the Configuration Web Page at the computer workstation.


Panasonic KM-MB2061


In the TAM menu, you can set the length of time for voice messages recorded with the answering machine, enable call screening and Web Playback at your computer workstation, change the language used in the answering machines’ greeting, etc.

Pressing the Menu hard key twice launches additional setup options. For instance, with Phonebook Set above, you can enter fax-numbers into the fax phonebook.

Press the Menu key again to access additional help. For instance, print various reports, such as a broadcasting list for fax, printer test page, caller ID list, FTP server list, etc.

In the Help menu, users can print brief guides detailing how to use fax and copy, the Caller ID feature to identify incoming calls, etc.

With the Q and A option, print guides that addresses common questions, such as how to make a copy, record a greeting message for the answering machine, adjust image quality, receive and send faxes, etc.

PRINT AND FAX DRIVERS The KX-MB2061 is equipped with Panasonic’s Multi-Function Station software suite that automatically installs a Microsoft Windows based GDI (Graphical Device Interface) and Easy Print print drivers. (Multi-Function Station also includes Adobe PDF creation software, optical character recognition [OCR] software, document management for scanned files, and PC fax driver).

The Panasonic KX-MB2061 as tested by Wirth Consulting.

STRENGTHS The print drivers display the most frequently used

settings on their first tab, minimizing users having to navigate through multiple tabs in order to locate them.

The GDI driver includes Print profiles that consist of a group of settings that are accessed on the Profile tab, and are created by users. For instance, a “company letter” profile might specify Standard image quality, plain paper, and an overlay (such as a company letterhead), portrait orientation, etc. The user simply selects this profile, and doesn’t have to specify settings each time, saving time and eliminating any mistakes. The Easy Print driver also provides print profiles called templates.

Print profiles can be imported in order to maintain consistent document formatting across a workgroup or organization.

LIMITATIONS None.


Panasonic KM-MB2061


GDI PRINT DRIVER

The GDI driver’s first tab displays most frequently used print settings. The graphic on the left displays the effect of currently settings. With the Printer Status option on the left, you can launch the Device Monitor utility, so that you can quickly make sure the system is ready to print.

Device Monitor utility shows current status and if any problems need to be corrected.

Each tab in the print driver contains a link to a Help option that launches a print-driver help guide, so there’s no need to locate and launch a User Guide.

The Output tab provides collate and number of copies options, as well as an Output Options link which launches the following…

When this option is selected, current system status will automatically be checked before you submit a print job, thus helping you correct any problems before printing.

With Toner Save mode, minimize toner consumption, when printing drafts for instance.


Panasonic KM-MB2061


With the Effects tab, print watermarks and overlays. Watermarks such as “draft,” confidential,” etc., can be created, and their position and appearance adjusted.

The Overlay option conveniently enables you to print stored text, images, and graphics on output. Overlays typically consist of a company letterhead or logo, a form, etc.

Print profiles are time-savers that eliminate users having to configure settings for frequent kinds of print jobs. They consist of a group of settings that are automatically applied to the print job once the user selects them. You can also import print profiles.

The Support tab provides an option (Status Web Page) that launches the Configuration Web Page, which indicates current device and consumables’ status, and also can be used to configure system and network settings.

Printer Web page…see Configuration Web Page in the Client and Network-Management section on page 17 for more.


Panasonic KM-MB2061


EASY PRINT DRIVER

The Easy Print driver provides access to the Easy Print utility; the Layout tab provides these basic settings. Once you select “OK,” the Easy Print utility launches.

With Easy Print, you can conveniently combine files created with different source applications into a single document that can be printed and/or saved as an Adobe PDF. See page 23 for more information on Easy Print.

PC FAX PRINT DRIVER

To fax from the computer workstation, launch the PC fax driver from your application (File→Print→KX2061 fax driver). The PC fax driver provides basic job settings…click on Advanced to apply more advanced settings...

…such as image quality, halftoning, etc….


Panasonic KM-MB2061


Enter the recipient’s name and their fax phone number using the numeric keypad…

…or select Directory to choose a recipient from the fax phonebook. You can also preview your document before you send it. The last step is to click on Send…all-in-all, it’s a very simple easy process.

The highly flexible Communications Log allows you to re-send, monitor, track, print, convert to text (OCR), and save sent and received faxes.

CLIENT AND NETWORK-MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE

The KX-MB2061’s client and network-management software includes Panasonic Multi-Function Station Software suite, which includes Panasonic’s Easy Print Utility, and Readiris Pro 7 OCR software. Also included are a Device Monitor utility, and a Configuration Web Page, the latter of which is for device monitoring and configuration via Web browser.

STRENGTHS Although there is a significant amount of software

functionality, feature and function selection is provided in an organized and straightforward manner that will not overwhelm the end-user.

There is not an excessive amount of software to install and maintain on the computer workstation.

Multi-Function Station software suite provides easy-to-use software for scanning, PC fax, and device management and configuration.

Device Monitor utility provides straightforward monitoring of the KM-MB2061 from the computer workstation. It takes just a few seconds to see if toner is good, the system is ready to print, etc., all without leaving your desk. Moreover, Device Monitor provides very good monitoring of third-party networked devices—for instance, in testing, it indicated current toner levels for a third-party networked device. In contrast, some other competitive utilities provide only very limited feedback on third-party network devices.


Panasonic KM-MB2061


Panasonic’s Device Monitor utility provides useful feedback at the computer workstation not only for the KX-MB2061, but also for third-party networked devices as seen above. This helps administrators and users make sure that all devices are operating properly, and helps them correct problems or replace supplies before downtime occurs.

Easy Print Utility is a really useful utility that

enables users to merge multiple file types (such as Microsoft Word and Excel files) into a single print job and/or PDF file. Users can also preview and modify page layout. This enables users to seamlessly integrate content, so that readers don’t have to refer to multiple, separate documents.

Configuration Web Page provides easy checking of device status and toner level via a Web browser, and for straightforward, easy configuration of system settings.

LIMITATIONS It would also be useful if remaining drum life and

page-count information were available.

MULTI-FUNCTION STATATION SOFTWARE

Left: Installed KX-MB2061 software accessed from the Windows’ Start menu. Included and shown are Help and User Guides, utilities for configuring and managing fax, for configuring the telephone answering machine, for scanning from the PC, etc., as well as a link to Panasonic product-support Web pages. We liked the simple, uncluttered design, with no desktop icons or icons in the taskbar installed. Also installed, but not shown, is Readiris Pro 7.0 OCR software.


Panasonic KM-MB2061


Multi-Function Station provides a host of capabilities—from scanning and faxing from the PC, viewing, editing and scanned and saved images and files, converting scanned and saved files into editable text, etc., and even used for listening to voice messages recorded by the answering machine. It can be minimized it to the Windows’ task bar for easy access.

When the Scan option is selected from the Multi-Function Station Main Menu, you can initiate pull scanning from your computer workstation after loading the original in the document feeder or placing it on the flatbed platen. Select where the scanned file should be sent: the Viewer utility for receiving and managing received scans; to File (the scan appears as a file in a designated location); to your e-mail application; to Readiris OCR software; or to a custom location.

The default folder where the scan will be sent, scan type, resolution, scan size, file type, etc. can be set for each scan function (see tabs).

With the Custom Scan option, you can specify a unique scan-enabled application for receiving scans (MS Paint, Adobe Photoshop, Windows Live Photo Gallery, etc). Ultimately, it’ll save time when you’re frequently scanning a certain type of job—for instance, you’re scanning photos into Adobe PhotoShop.


Panasonic KM-MB2061


Preview mode displays how the file will appear with selected settings.

When you select “Viewer” from the Multi-Function Station scan tool bar, the document is scanned and opened in Multi-Function Viewer. From here, the document can be saved to disk, sent to Readiris Pro 7 OCR, sent as an attachment to the e-mail client, or saved as a TIFF, JPEG, BMP or PDF file. You can also scan or browse to add more pages from here and assemble a document.

When you select File from the Multi-Function Station scan tool bar, documents are scanned and saved as files in the folder specified in Settings.

When the Email option is selected from the scan tool bar, the scanned file is automatically attached to an e-mail message using your default e-mail program. It saves time—you don’t have to open a new e-mail message, search for the scanned file, and then attach it.

Multi-Function Station can also be used to view incoming and sent faxes from your computer workstation. You can also save received faxes as images, re-send faxes from the log, and print and/or process sent and received faxes with the OCR software—a nice touch.


Panasonic KM-MB2061


When OCR is selected from the Scan tool bar, the scanned file is received in the Readiris OCR software application so that it can be processed into text-editable format. With the OCR process, the software seeks to recognize each word, and most text will be correctly identified. Here you’re given the opportunity to clean up the scan before running the OCR engine or specify MS Word or plain text output. Note that some other MFPs that we’ve tested skip this step entirely and go straight to the text-recognition process and produce a text file. If this particular document was scanned and sent directly to the OCR engine without modifications, it would result in a text document with a huge number of anomalies.

A key Multi-Function Station capability lets you set up fax from the convenience of your computer workstation, which is much easier than setting up fax at the device itself using the control panel.

Also provided is an extensive online user guide for using Multi-Function Station software, including how to perform scanning from the computer workstation, how to use fax from the computer workstation, use OCR software, etc.


Panasonic KM-MB2061


DEVICE MONITOR UTILITY

Device Monitor utility can be quickly accessed from either the Windows’ task bar or GDI print driver so that you can make sure the system’s ready to print, copy, scan or fax. Another good feature is the <Panel> pane that shows the message currently displayed on the KX-MB2061’s LCD so you can see current status. Select Advanced Information to obtain more information…

Advanced information indicates current toner status, as well as installed paper sizes and types, and current paper levels.

We simulated a few errors in order to show how Device Monitor dynamically indicates them. Here for instance, we left the top cover open…

While here we left the paper drawer open. The benefit of these warnings is that users are notified in advance of any problems, so that they can correct them as soon as possible, minimizing device downtime.


Panasonic KM-MB2061


Device Monitor also did a nice job of correctly identifying other third-party devices on our network and indicating if they’re ready. We clicked on the Lexmark C792 in order to see how much more information we could obtain.

We were very pleasantly surprised to see that Device Monitor was able to indicate the current toner levels and current paper levels for this third-party networked printer.

EASY PRINT UTILITY

The Easy Print utility launches from either the Easy Print print driver, or from the Microsoft Windows’ task bar. We found it very useful, as it enables users to merge files created using different source applications into a single document. This enables you to create a document containing pages obtained from a Microsoft Word file, Excel spreadsheet, PowerPoint presentation, etc., so that your readers don’t have to consult different documents. Also convenient is that the document may also be saved as an Adobe PDF.

The Easy Print driver consists of just two tabs; the first tab provides paper size/orientation and resolution settings, while the second tab consists of brief print-driver information. After making settings, and selecting OK in the print-dialogue box, the Easy Print utility opens…

Using the four tabs in the lower left, specify paper size, layout…


Panasonic KM-MB2061


…number of copies, paper source

and paper type…

…grayscale or toner-save

mode…

…and headers, watermarks and/or footers. After selecting any of these items, double-click on the item in order to create the header, watermark or footer that will be displayed on printed pages.

Print templates can be defined, saved, and quickly recalled, so that you don’t have to re-configure setting for frequently printed job types.

To add another file, simply launch the file, and it’s added in the upper left panel. You may then delete or rearrange pages, as well as add blank pages. The right side of the window provides a print preview of how pages will appear. You may also again adjust Basic, Output, Quality and Effects using the settings provided in the lower left. Print the document and/or save it as a PDF. Using the Print Template in the left lower corner, settings may also be saved, named, and then conveniently recalled whenever needed.

READIRIS PRO 7 OCR SOFTWARE

The Readiris Pro 7 OCR software guides the user with easy-to-follow prompts through scanning a document and processing it with the OCR software so that it can be converted into an editable file format such as Microsoft Word.

You can also OCR an existing saved image file. After launching the utility, the first step is to select whether to process a scanned file or a saved image file. Automatic Page Deskew and Page Orientation can also be specified here

A settings summary appears. If you’re satisfied with these settings, click “Next.” If not, click “Change.”


Panasonic KM-MB2061


Select the language (English, Spanish, French, etc.) used in the text document to be processed.

Next, specify the file format in which to save the document, and whether to preserve the document’s paragraph marks and page layout. Default settings can be changed by selecting the Change option.

Select the file format, for instance, Microsoft Excel or WordPad, which the file will be converted into.

All options have been set, so that the scanning and OCR process can now begin.

In the OCR process, the software seeks to recognize each word, and most text will be correctly identified. From this screen, you can de-select areas (such as the logo in the upper right) that you don’t wish converted into editable text.


Panasonic KM-MB2061


CONFIGURATION WEB PAGE

When “Configuration Web Page” is selected from the Multi-Function Station Utility Menu, the KX-MB2061’s embedded Web page opens. This option will most likely be used by administrators or an office manager in charge of the system. The Web page also may be accessed by entering the printer’s Internet Protocol (IP) address in the address line of a standard Web browser. It indicates current device status, current message displayed on the LCD, current toner status, installed paper size, as well as network information. Users can also configure device and network settings.

Fax, scan and copy settings and defaults may also be set using Configuration Web page from the convenience of the workstation.

Also configure settings for the telephone answering machine.

With Web Fax Preview and Web Voice Playback, view received faxes, as well as listen to received voice messages right at you workstation. This means you won’t have to leave your desk to check on incoming fax and voice communications.


Panasonic KM-MB2061


HARDWARE INSTALLATION

The KX-MB2016’s carton contents and unpacking instructions are printed on the flaps of the shipping carton so they’re right at hand. We also found printed setup and installation instructions right on top of the box contents too—we appreciated not having to sort through the box in order to find these instructions, as we’ve had to do with some other competitive units.

The KX-MB2061 ships with hardware setup guide and brief information guide, both placed on top of the box contents for easy access. It ships with user guide and software on CD ROM; output paper tray; power cord; telephone line cord; and toner and drum cartridges. The KX-MB2061 also ships with (outlined in red) a corded telephone handset and cradle, and a cordless telephone with rechargeable batteries, belt clip and charger base with AC adapter.

Hardware Installation Time: ~13 minutes Setting up the KX-MB2061’s hardware took just about 13 minutes. Set up included: removing the system from its shipping carton, removing protective tape, and installing toner and drum cartridges (our test unit shipped with toner and drum cartridges pre-installed, so we did not have to install them ourselves).

STRENGTHS Hardware setup of the KX-MB2061 was very fast.

One person will be able to remove the system from its shipping carton and place it on a desk or table.

Carton contents and unpacking instructions are printed on the shipping carton’s flaps for very easy access. We also found the printed setup and installation instructions right on top of the carton contents, so there was no need to search for them.

Unlike with some other systems, very little packaging material must be removed. This made setup very fast and easy, and it also means reduced waste.

LIMITATIONS None. Included with the system are graphic instructions for setting it up, installing toner and drum cartridges, registration card for Readiris OCR software, and brief safety and introduction guides in English and Spanish. The CD contains installation software, software utilities and print and PC fax drivers.

SOFTWARE AND NETWORK INSTALLATION The KX-MB2061 ships with a CD-ROM that contains various software, including an automated installation utility; print, fax, and scan drivers; and Multi-Function Station software suite.

Select either Easy Installation or Custom Installation. With Easy Installation, all software components are installed; with Custom Installation, the user chooses which software to install. We selected Custom Installation.

Software & Network Installation: 8 min. & 34 sec.

STRENGTHS The process of installing the KX-MB2061 on the

network and installing software was among the easiest compared to hundreds of printers and MFPs that Wirth Consulting has installed. The process is straightforward and painless with an automated installation utility. Software and network installation took less than 10 minutes.

Easy network installation. Software includes useful firewall and installation cleanup tools.

We recommend setting up the KX-MB2061’s fax using the Multi-Function Station software’s Remote Control utility, which lets users set up fax from their computer workstation. Fax may also be set up using the Configuration Web Page from the workstation.

LIMITATIONS None.


Panasonic KM-MB2061


Check or un-check the software you would like to install. You must install Multi-Function Station Drivers in order to print and pull-scan; the Device Monitor utility lets you monitor the system from your computer workstation, while Readiris Pro 7 OCR lets you convert scanned and saved files into text-editable files.

For network connectivity, select the second option.

The KX-MB2061 is quickly located—there’s no need to enter its IP address.

You now have the opportunity to rename the print, PC Fax and scan drivers. The defaults will work for most users.

System software is being configured…

Software and network installation is complete…just select Finish. Altogether, it took just eight “clicks” and just about eight minutes to install software and the system on the network.

Upon re-boot of the system, the Help function and Multi-Function Station (right) open.

The bottom row of icons on the Multi-Function Station control panel provide access to various levels of user help (tips, help, and user guide).


Panasonic KM-MB2061


USER MAINTENANCE

The KX-MB2061 features a clamshell design—just lift up the unit’s top half to access toner and drum cartridges and the internal paper path.

STRENGTHS Replacing Imaging Supplies – Although the KX-

MB2061 uses a two-piece imaging system, replacing both cartridges is easy, with no guesswork involved, and the toner/drum cartridge slides securely into place within the system. The system’s clamshell design makes replacing both toner and drum cartridges easy, with both cartridges replaced from the front, not from the back or side as with some other systems.

Replenishing Media – Loading media is very straightforward. In order to add paper, the paper drawer can be completely removed, which Wirth Consulting has found makes it easier to add paper. However, the drawer must be pushed upwards in order to remove it—this is a good thing, as it will prevent users from unintentionally removing the paper drawer and perhaps dropping it.

Removing Misfeeds – We found that accessing potential misfeeds areas was straightforward. It’s easy to open the top half of the system, which automatically stays propped open, and easy to access the internal paper path. On the back of the unit, simply lower a door to access misfeeds that may occur in the turnaround area of the paper path, and lift up the document feeder’s top cover in order to access any misfeeds. No misfeeds occurred in testing.

LIMITATIONS None.

INSTALLING TONER AND DRUM CARTRIDGES

To replace the toner or drum cartridges, lift up the front of the unit using the handle located just below the control panel.

The top half of the unit is automatically propped open with a sturdy prop rod; it automatically unlatches when you close the top portion of the unit.

The toner and drum cartridge are separate units . . .

. . . that must be secured together to form a single unit before they can be installed in the system. It’s an easy process and takes just a few minutes.


Panasonic KM-MB2061


REPLENISHING MEDIA

The main 250-sheet paper drawer can be completely removed or left in place when adding paper. Just squeeze and then slide the green paper-length guide and move it until it locks into place…

...then squeeze and slide the paper-width guide so that it too locks into place. The guides are easy to slide and adjust into position, and the paper drawer itself is clearly marked for letter- and A4-size paper.

When the paper drawer is adjusted for the correct paper size, just slide the paper in.

The rear paper tray can be used for loading paper longer than 8.5”x11” and A4, such as legal size. The paper-width guides slide easily into place.

MISFEED ACCESS

Lift up the top half of the unit using the handle located underneath the control panel in order to access any misfeeds that may occur in the internal paper path.

Lift up these green handles in order to access misfeeds that may occur in the fuser area.

To access misfeeds that may occur in the paper-turnaround area, lower this door located on the back of the unit.

The document feeder’s top cover is easy to snap open in case you need to access any misfeeds that may occur there.


Panasonic KM-MB2061


MEDIA HANDLING The KX-MB2061 is an A4 B/W All-in-One system that prints and scans on up to letter- and legal-size media and is equipped with a 250-sheet paper drawer that holds 8.5” x 11” and A4-size media, and with a one-sheet rear feeder for printing on thick media or longer media such as legal-size (8.5” x 14”). It’s also equipped with a 20-sheet automatic document feeder, and 100-sheet paper-output tray. Originals up to 8.5”x 11”/A4 may be scanned using the flatbed platen, while originals up to 8.5” x 23.63” may be scanned using the 20-sheet automatic document feeder.

Acceptable Media Types Plain paper: 20 – 24 lb. bond (75 - 90 g/m2). Thin paper: 64 - 75 g/m2 (17 - 20 lb.). Labels: Avery 5160/5161/5162/5163/5164/5165/5167/5168.

Acceptable Media Sizes A4, Letter, Legal, B5 (JIS), B5 (ISO) , 16K, 216mmx330mm, 216mmx340mm

The paper-output tray holds 100 sheets. With the output tray extender open (center), the stacking of printed output was neat. For one or two printed pages, you may not need to extend the output tray. However, for higher volumes of printed output, the tray should be extended (right, stacking a long print job with tray extender closed).

Max. Media Size: 8.5”x14” Max. Media Weight: 24 lb. bond (75-90 g/m2) Std./Max Media Capacity: 251/251 sheets Media Sources: 2 Automatic Document Feeder: 20 sheets Automatic Duplexing Document Feeder: No Max. Paper Size Via Doc. Feeder: 8.5” x23.63” Max. Paper Size Via Platen: 8.5”x11”/A4 Output Paper Tray: 100 sheets Automatic Duplex Printing: No

STRENGTHS Standard 20-sheet automatic document feeder. 250-sheet paper drawer is fully enclosed, so loaded

paper is protected from dust and humidity. LIMITATIONS A minor limitation is that legal-size (8.5”x14”)

originals may not be copied or scanned using the flatbed platen; however, legal-size originals may be copied and scanned using the automatic document feeder.

No automatic duplex printing; however, only some systems in this class provide this.

Maximum media weight is 24 lb. bond or 90 g/m2. Consequently, the KX-MB2061 cannot print on card or index stock.

COST PER PAGE The KX-MB2061 ships with a 500-page starter toner cartridge and 6,000-page drum cartridge.

Supplies Cost

Supply Item Price* Page Yield* Cost Per Page KX-FAT461

Black Toner Cartridge $44.95 2,000 2.248¢

KX-FAD462 Drum Cartridge

$109.95 6,000 1.833¢

Total Cost Per Page 4.080¢ *Pages at 5% area coverage. Page yield tested in accordance with ISO/IEC 19752 standard.

NOTE: Retail pricing for replacement toner and drum cartridges will vary, depending on retailer. Pricing may be significantly lower among some retailers, so that cost per page will also be lower.

STRENGTHS The KX-MB2061’s black cost per page of 4.1¢, based on

toner and drum cartridge list pricing, is average for toner-based All-in-Ones in this class.

LIMITATIONS None

The toner and drum cartridge are separate units and have different page yields. This means that the toner cartridge is changed twice before the drum cartridge needs to be changed. Note that with some competitive devices, the drum unit is changed every time the toner is depleted, requiring additional energy and resources to return ship, re-manufacture, ship and ultimately dispose of the depleted drum cartridge—consequently, the KX-MB2061’s drum unit is more eco-friendly.


Panasonic KM-MB2061


SPACE/POWER CONSUMPTION/WARRANTY STRENGTHS At 26.5 lbs., users will need a relatively sturdy desk or tabletop for the KX-

MB2061. However, the system has a compact footprint, as its media tray does not extend outwards, and its height at 12.0” translates into a low profile.

Low sleep mode power consumption of just 5.5 watts.

LIMITATIONS None.

The KX-MB2061 is a compact laser-based office-level MFP with a footprint that’s as small as that of some entry-level ink-jet All-in-Ones. It also has a nice low profile, standing just 12.0” high.

SPACE REQUIREMENTS Width Depth Height Footprint (inches): 16.5 17.0 12.0 Footprint: (mm): 419.10 431.80 304.80Required Cubic Feet: 1.95 Required Cubic Centimeters: 55.16 WEIGHT Weight (lbs.): 26.5 Weight (Kg): 12.02 POWER REQUIREMENTS Electrical Supply: AC 120V, 50/60 Hz Max. power consumption: 950 watts* Copy/Standby Mode: 500 watts Sleep Mode: 5.5 watts *When fuser lamp is turned on. MAINTENANCE ACCESS Access Requirements: Front, top and back WARRANTY The KX-MB2061 has a one-year warranty.

ECO-FRIENDLY FEATURES

When not in use, the system falls back into power-save mode in order to reduce energy consumption, as shown by the LCD display above.

STRENGTHS Aside from the carton and four foam inserts, the KX-MB2061

notably has very little extraneous packaging materials such as cardboard and plastic inserts and the copious quantities of tape to keep them in place. Consequently, customers will be contributing less to landfills.

Super fast 12.2 second warm-up time from a cold start enhances productivity. It also saves energy—because the system wakes up fast, it also means you can schedule the system to go into energy-saving sleep mode much faster, for instance, in five minutes, thus reducing energy consumption.

Energy Star-compliant for low energy consumption in sleep mode.

LIMITATIONS None.

PANASONIC ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT

Panasonic Corporation of North America’s parent company, Panasonic Corporation, recently rolled out its global Eco Ideas Strategy which will be implemented worldwide. Eco Ideas highlights the company’s plans to achieve global excellence in all aspects of our environmental management activities.

PANASONIC ENVIRONMENTAL GOALS AND PROGRAMS

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has launched a new campaign to encourage Americans to reuse or recycle their used electronics. Panasonic has joined the Plug-In to eCycling Campaign as one of nine "Leader Level" corporate partners.

As a Leader Level partner, Panasonic will work with the EPA to help underwrite the costs associated with up to 175-200 of Agency-led and other electronics collection events nationwide during 2003. Panasonic also will provide advertising and promotion support toward the Plug-In to eCycling campaign.


Panasonic KM-MB2061


RECOMMENDATION Panasonic’s KM-MB2061 is a really innovative new product that brings the concept of a multifunctional office-imaging device to a new level, as it centralizes network print, copy, network color scan, fax, and voice communication into a highly efficient and competent system. Of note is that this is the first product developed from the ground up since the merger of Panasonic’s document, communications and security divisions.

New features and capabilities include:

Built-in DECT 6.0 cordless phone system; there’s one standard cordless handset, and six optional cordless handsets. Intercom for internal wireless voice communication, three-way conference calls, and for transferring voice calls. Telephone answering machine that operates when the phone line is busy, so callers can still record messages. Automatically send voice messages as .wav e-mail attachments to up to six e-mail addresses, so that, for instance, you can

listen to voice messages via most smartphones when you’re out of the office. Automatically send received faxes as PDF e-mail attachments to up to six e-mail addresses, so that you can also view

received faxes via most smartphones when you’re out of the office. Distinctive ring capability so that incoming faxes are automatically detected and received. Corded (attached) phone handset. All of the above while utilizing only a single phone line.

For many small offices, the KX-MB2061’s voice-communications could be all they need. Of course, as there’s only one line, if you’re a small business with a staff of salespeople using the phone all day, for instance, or you experience very heavy fax volume, you’ll need more expanded telephone capability.

Overall, we found in testing that the KX-MB2061 quite effectively consolidates office functions into a single device that’s remarkably compact considering all that it incorporates. It eliminates the need for separate printer, fax machine, answering machine, desk phone, etc. Other noteworthy capabilities include:

Paperless faxing—forward received faxes to e-mail addresses as noted, as well as route received faxes to your network workstation running Multi-Function Station software—then just print, save, or delete them. Ultimately, you don’t have to print received faxes on paper at all, saving paper and toner. This also eliminates having to re-scan received paper faxes in order to save them digitally.

Preview and monitor received voice and fax communications with Web Voice Playback and Web Fax Preview from any computer workstation on the network—no additional software is required.

Centralized voice phonebook—telephone numbers (up to 100) are shared with the base unit and cordless phones. Up to 100 voice numbers can be stored in the shared phonebook, and up to six digital cordless telephone handsets may be added, so that each user has an extension.

TESTED PERFORMANCE As a “traditional” office MFP, the KX-MB2061 performed in outstanding fashion:

Print and Copier Productivity – Fast tested print speeds of up to 23.8 ppm, matching Panasonic’s rated print speed of 24 ppm. Tested copy speed was up to 22.7 ppm and was fastest using the flatbed platen. Also of note is the system’s super fast warm-up time of 12.2 seconds from a cold start. Because warm-up time is fast, you can schedule the system to default into energy-saving sleep mode much quicker—for instance, in five minutes—thus reducing your energy consumption and costs.

Image Quality – We observed crisp black text and very good grayscale halftones in print and copy modes that will be sufficient for virtually all typical office-imaging text applications, and most grayscale printing applications. Reproduction of a color photographic image sample, while displaying some slight banding, had an overall pleasant appearance, and was significantly better than that of a competitor in this price range.

Ease of Use – One thing that we especially appreciated with the KX-MB2061 and other MFPs from Panasonic that Wirth Consulting has evaluated is that although there’s a significant amount of software, it’s very non-intrusive, works the first time, is easy to install, and doesn’t clutter-up the user’s computer desktop. At the same time, software provides all of the


Panasonic KM-MB2061


functionality required, from pull scanning from the workstation, to device configuration at the workstation. There’s also a full version of Readiris Pro 7 OCR software, and we were pleasantly surprised with Device Monitor utility’s ability to provide fairly comprehensive feedback on third-party network devices—even providing toner gauges for a third-party color printer. One thing that to note is that because legal-size paper is only accepted via the rear 1-sheet paper feeder, most applications should primarily consist of 8.5”x11” and A4 print and copy applications.

Installation - Setup is very quick—about 10 minutes to install software and the system on the network—and there’s minimal packaging and tape to remove when un-boxing. (The minimal packaging is also very eco-friendly, as less packaging means less waste that will wind up in landfills.) Combined software and installation on the network took less than 10 minutes and is very easy using the automated installation utility; system configuration and defaults can be conveniently configured from the convenience of the computer workstation, including fax and fax-phonebook setup using the easy-to-use Panasonic software.

Build Quality – While the KX-MB2061 is very affordably priced, we observed very good build quality. For instance, the prop rod used to open the top half of the device is very sturdy, and automatically props open the top half (we have observed some competitive units that use thin prop rods that the user must manually extend). The device also has an attractive control panel, and low 12” profile. There’s also a bona fide paper drawer in lieu of the open paper tray found on some competitive systems—these open paper trays don’t keep loaded paper protected from dust and humidity.

Reliability – Wirth Consulting did not observe any problems throughout installation and testing—for instance, no misfeeding occurred, there was no toner leakage during installation, etc.

SUMMARY As simply a small-office monochrome laser MFP, the KX-MB2061 with its $249.95 list price is a great value—a sampling of 20-30 ppm competitive laser MFPs with network connectivity retail from $299.99 to $399.00. But add in integrated voice communications, and it really stand outs in value, as there’s: 1) no need for a separate answering machine; 2) no need to pay a monthly voice-mail service charge to your telephone provider; 3) no need for multiple voice/fax/data phone lines; and 4) no phone system or PBX is required in order to handle voice mail and communications for up to seven phone extensions (base plus six cordless extensions).

Moreover, in testing, the system performed without a hitch—from 13-minute hardware installation, 8-minute software/network installation, 23.7-ppm tested print speed, very good image quality that bested a top competitor, and no reliability or installation problems. A nice advantage is that, as we’ve found with other tested Panasonic systems in this segment, software is not intrusive, but performs elegantly and smoothly. One minor weakness was noted—the KX-MB2061 can only feed a single sheet of legal-sized media at a time, so prospective users that have legal-sized printing applications should take note. Nevertheless, Wirth Consulting has no hesitation awarding the KX-MB2061 its highest rating, Outstanding, and highly recommends the KX-MB2061 for small businesses and offices, home office, micro-offices, etc.

ABOUT WIRTH CONSULTING Wirth Consulting was founded in order to provide independent competitive evaluations of digital-imaging equipment. Founder Terry Wirth has over 30 years of experience in the evaluation and testing of business-imaging equipment, and as former chairman and member since 1989 of the American Society for the Testing of Materials (ASTM) F05 Committee on Business Imaging Products, he has authored numerous, published ASTM test methods. ABOUT WIRTH CONSULTING RATINGS When Wirth Consulting rates imaging devices, it assigns the device one of the following ratings: Outstanding, Well Worth Consideration, Worth Consideration, and Not Worth Consideration.

Contact Us Wirth Consulting LLC

www.wirthconsulting.org [email protected]

+1 (862) 223-9491 2101 Middlefield Court

Denville, NJ 07834 USA

Documents

What You Should Know Hands-On Test Report€¦ · ImageXpert™ Printer 600 dpi Target Version 5.1 ImageXpert™ Test Target EP-PSv1. Northlight Images UK Grayscale Linearization