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Introduction to the Lexmark Optra S family of laser printers

The Lexmark Optra family of laser printers was introduced in 1997 and continued in production until 1999. The Optra S range was superseded by the Optra T range in 2000. The T range continues to use the same basic design with a number of detailed improvements. The S series is an extremely reliable and durable family of printers that are economical to operate and maintain. They can produce high quality output at resolutions ranging from 300 to 1200 dpi.

The Lexmark Optra S family of printers ranges from the 12 page per minute 1250 and 1255 models through the 16 page per minute 1625 and 1650 models; the 18 page per minute 1855; the 24 page per minute 2420, 2450 and 2455 models up to the 34 page per minute 3455. The first two digits of the model designation represent the page per minute rating for that model. The first models released in 1997 have model numbers ending in 0 eg 1650, 2450 whereas later models end in 5 eg 1855, 2455. Later models have faster processors for any given ppm rating: for example the 2450 has a 66 mhz processor whereas the 2455 has a 133 mhz processor.

All models in the range have a 250 sheet input paper drawer. Most models also have a 250 sheet output bin except the 2450, 2455 and 3455 models that have a 500 sheet output bin. All models can accept additional input drawers ranging from 250 pages to 1,000 pages or a 2,000 sheet motorised feeder. All models from the 1650 upwards have output bin sensors that detect when the output paper bin is full and stop the printer until the paper bin is cleared. All models can accept a number of additional output bins with a capacity of 650 pages each.

Faster models also have extra features: the 1250, 1255 and 1625 models have only one expansion slot for a print server; the 1650 and 1855 models have two expansion slots for print servers or hard disks; and the 2420, 2450 and 2455 models have three expansion slots. Similarly, the 1250, 1255 and 1625 have only one slot for additional RAM but all other models have two slots. Faster models also have higher rated maximum production capacities: the 1250 and 1255 models are rated at 35,000 pages per month; the 1855 is rated at 65,000 pages per month; and the 2450 and 2455 are rated at 100,000 pages per month.

All Optra S printers come with at least 4Mb of RAM on the main board. Faster models come with 8Mb on the main board. All Optra S printers in the Australian Printer Catalogue have been upgraded by adding at least 16Mb in one expansion slot to yield a total of 20Mb or 24Mb. All 24 ppm models have been upgraded with a 32Mb module to yield a total of 36Mb or 40Mb.

Most Optra S models use the same toner cartridge with a capacity of 17,600 pages at 5% coverage. The exception is the model Se 3455 with a distinct toner cartridge that is similar (but not identical to) that used in the later Optra T series printers. It is rated at 23,000 pages. All models can accept a wide range of accessories including duplexers for automatic double sided printing; and automatic envelope feeders that connect to the multipurpose input tray. The accessories are almost standard across the range: later model accessories for printer models ending in 5 are distinguished from earlier models by a blue circle approximately one cm in diameter on the top, front, left hand corner of paper drawer housings. Printers with model numbers ending in 5 will not recognise accessories that are not marked with this blue circle.

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