Methodology for Epson Ink Jet Print Speeds

Epson tests as follows:

Black Text Pages per Minute ("PPM") and Color Text PPM:
Testing is conducted with the patterns depicted below in Microsoft Word. The printer runs in draft or economy mode (depending on the printer) and uses plain paper of 8.5" x 11" size. Tests are performed at least three times using at least three sample printers. Tests do not measure processing time which varies depending upon the computer configuration, image, software, and connectivity. Timing begins when the second page starts to feed into the printer and continues for 60 seconds. Results are rounded down but not rounded up. Copy per minute times are also measured this way.

Color Photos Speeds:
Testing is conducted with the image depicted below using Adobe Photoshop software on photo paper in photo default mode, unless otherwise specified. Tests are performed at least three times using at least three sample printers. Tests do not measure processing time which varies depending upon the computer configuration, image, software, and connectivity. Timing begins from commencement of paper feed until the photo ejects. Results are rounded down but not rounded up.

Test Conditions and Equipment Used:
Tests are run in a normal office environment using current readily available equipment. As of 11/05, Epson uses a Dell Pentium 4, 2.8 GHz, 512 RAM desktop computer, using Microsoft Windows XP and a USB 2.0 connection. Timing is done using a stopwatch.

Test Patterns Used: