By Dr. Stephen Foster

HP's LaserJet Pro M1217fnw MFP (http://macte.ch/PnfAO) -- which costs around US$219 -- is a fine desktop resource thanks to its ability to print, scan, fax, and copy. Its wireless functionality also lets you print from virtually anywhere in your home or office.

The M1217fnw MFP is also equipped with HP Smart Install. The device’s built-in HP Auto-on/Auto-off Technology helps users save energy by turning the printer on and off as needed.

Ease of setup is excellent. The packaging was well planned. The size of the unit is great for my small office. The printer has quickly become the main printer because the ink costs are significantly lower than an inkjet printer -- and due to the ease of use. The Document feeder handles multiple page jobs without jamming. The M1217fnw is also great for multiple page faxes, scanning, copying.

The printer features are better than expected as the packaging didn't list all the features. For example, the Ethernet port was not listed.

Setup was as easy as promised -- five minute was listed on the box. I was skeptical, but it was almost that easy. I had it running in under 15 minutes. It took me longer because i did not have the space for the printer setup beforehand. It took longer to arrange the space than it took to install the printer  

The software is better than the previous HP Print Center software. I installed it via the disc on all the computers in the office. It seamlessly integrated with my other HP printers. This version of the HP software seems easier to use than previous versions.

The printer is fast  and reliable. It's not as quiet as an inkjet, but it's not loud. All in all, it's a great printer for my small office for routine office printing projects.

Rating: 9 out of 10