The HP LaserJet 1100A is a printer with a unique design that incorporates HPs JetPath technology to expand the device’s functionality to that of a copier and scanner, as well as a personal printer. By combining multiple devices into a single unit by way of innovative design, the The LaserJet 1100 stands as one of the more original laser printers available.
While print resolution for the HP LaserJet 1100 stands at 600 x 600 dots per inch, optical scan resolution remains at only 300 dots per inch maximum. However, when an enhanced, interpolated scan mode is utilized, full 600 dot per inch quality is possible, but with a severe reduction in overall speed.
JetPath technology is exclusive to HP products, and utilizes and automatic single page document feeding device that is capable of scanning an image or document directly into on board firmware. The device can then output data to an attached device, or operate as a stand alone copy machine via convenient, dedicated buttons. Unfortunately, only single copies can be made via the push button, but, when connected to a PC, up to 99 copies can be made at once from a single source.
The HP LaserJet 1100 can print to a variety of paper sizes on top of the standard legal and letter sized formats, including envelopes, as well as custom sizes down to a minimum of 2 x 3.5 inches, and the way up to a 30 inch banner size. Card stock up to 43 lbs. in thickness can also be used for custom greeting cards or covers.
The device itself is rather large, even for a three in one multifunctional center, with a footprint of 14.5 inches by 15.8 inches, including its paper supports. It also stands at 14.9 inches and has a total weight of 16.1 pounds, making it one of the larger devices in its category, and revealing this discontinued model’s age.
Another sign that this hardware is aging is a very slow 8 page per minute print speed, yet, the uniqueness of the JetPath design allows for zero warm up time required, making single copy speed at least competitive with the models of today.
This exclusively black and white model prints at a grayscale depth of only 256, making it ideal only for monochrome text, as imagery will duplicate at very a very poor quality level. Its monthly volume is high though, with a maximum duty cycle of up to 7,000 imprinted pages.
Probably the biggest drawback for a modern user is the HP LaserJet 1100’s complete lack of a USB port, as it is equipped only with an IEEE 1284 compliant bidirectional parallel port for interfacing. Even though the unit can function as a stand alone copier, this specification places the HP LaserJet 1100 almost completely inside the obsolete category.
It should also be noted that the scan and copy functions are only functional on the HP LaserJet 1100A model, as the base model operates exclusively as a laser printer that, alone, has barely stood the test of time.
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