Ricoh MPC3500

January 2007
Ricoh Aficio MP C3500

www.bertl.com
35 ppm Monochrome ▪ 35 ppm Color
Print ▪ Copy ▪ Scan ▪ Fax ▪ Internet Fax
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What’s Inside January 2007
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Click on an entry to go to the page listed.
Introduction.......................................................................................................... 4
Device Features Summary .......................................................... 4
Paper Handling: Paper Input .............................................................................. 5

Paper Handling: Input Features Summary .................................. 5
What We Liked ............................................................................ 5
What We Would Like to See........................................................ 5
Paper Handling: Paper Output/Finishing .......................................................... 6

Paper Handling: Output/Finishing Features Summary ................ 6
What We Liked ............................................................................ 6
Routine Maintenance .......................................................................................... 7

Maintenance Features Summary ................................................ 7
What We Liked ............................................................................ 7
Device Management ........................................................................................... 8

What We Liked ............................................................................ 8
Security .............................................................................................................. 10
Security Features Summary ...................................................... 10
What We Liked .......................................................................... 10
What We Would Like to See...................................................... 10
Secure/Locked Print .................................................................. 11
Accessibility ...................................................................................................... 12
What We Liked .......................................................................... 12
Copy ................................................................................................................... 13
Copy Features Summary........................................................... 13
What We Liked .......................................................................... 13
Copy Productivity.............................................................................................. 15
Touch Screen Selections for Commonly-Used
Copy Functions.......................................................................... 15
Batch and Mixed-Media Copy Capabilities................................ 15
Copy Image Quality ........................................................................................... 16

Image Quality Summary ............................................................ 16

All Rights Reserved. The license under which this document is made available and applicable law prohibit any reproduction or further transmission of any portion of this document. This
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What’s Inside January 2007
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Print on Demand................................................................................................ 18
Print On Demand Features Summary ....................................... 18
What We Liked .......................................................................... 18
Print .................................................................................................................... 19
Print Features Summary............................................................ 19
What We Liked .......................................................................... 19
Print Productivity............................................................................................... 20
Bandwidth Comparison ............................................................. 20
Print Workflow ................................................................................................... 21

Batch Printing Capabilities......................................................... 21
Concurrency Test Results ......................................................... 21
Network Workload Tests ........................................................... 21
PCL Print Driver Functionality ......................................................................... 22
RPCS Print Driver Functionality....................................................................... 23
Print Image Quality............................................................................................ 24

Image Quality ............................................................................ 24
Scan .................................................................................................................... 25
Scan Features Summary........................................................... 25
What We Liked .......................................................................... 25
Scan Data Capture Accuracy ........................................................................... 26
Scan Productivity .............................................................................................. 27

Scan Bandwidth Comparison .................................................... 27
Scanning Batches and Mixed Originals .......................................................... 28

Batch and Mixed-Media Scanning Capabilities ......................... 28
Advertised Document Feeder Specifications............................. 28
Original-Handling Results.......................................................... 28
Multifunction Triple Play Test .......................................................................... 29
Summing Up ..................................................................................................... 30
About BERTL .................................................................................................... 31

Introduction January 2007
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As the race for office color supremacy heats up, Ricoh Device Features Summary
introduced its latest color MFP range, headed up by the Monochrome Engine Speed 35 ppm
Aficio MP C3500. This four-in-line imaging system
advertises a maximum monochrome and color engine Color Engine Speed 35 ppm
speed of 35 ppm and 35 ppm respectively, and sports a
wealth of new features, improved functionality, and a First Copy Out Mono 4.9 sec.
greatly improved walk up and desktop user experience.
First Copy Out Color 8 sec.
The MP C3500 looks from both the walk up and desktop Warm Up Time Less than 45 sec.
experience to be virtually identical to the MP C2500 and
MP C3000 products (which BERTL has already Maximum Monthly Volume Info Not Available
evaluated.) However, to account for the larger volumes
that these faster devices are positioned to handle, Ricoh Copy Standard
has armed the MP C3500 (and MP C4500) with even
more processing power, large document storage Print Standard
capacity and improved media input and output handling PSTN Fax Optional
capabilities.
Internet/Network Fax Optional
BERTL was granted first access to the Ricoh Aficio MP
C3500 and was immediately impressed by the scope of TWAIN Scan Standard
improvements that have been added to the device.
Network Scan Standard
Ricoh seems to have addressed virtually all of the hot
topics that are driving conversations surrounding office
MFP purchasing.
The most immediate change is the large full-color touch

screen, delivering a walk-up user experience that leaves
competing units in its wake. Since time is everything and
the MFP is touted as much more than just a copier and
printer, an efficient user interface to maximize the
functionality of the device without grinding user
productivity to a halt is paramount.
While copy, print and fax functions are all up to the usual
feature-rich standard that we expect from Ricoh, it is in
network scanning where the Aficio MP C3500 raises the
bar, not only in Ricoh’s product line but across the entire
industry.
It is a testimony to Ricoh’s innovation that many of the

comments you will find in this report’s “What We Would
Like to See” sections are features that no device is
currently offering, but are features that are now within
the reach of technology that Ricoh is offering today.
BERTL analysts hard at work with the Ricoh Aficio MP C3500
The device is not without its weakness, as you will read
within the report. But, they are far outweighed by the
productivity, functionality and ease-of-use design
advantages that have earned this device a 5-star rating
from BERTL.

Paper Handling: Paper Input January 2007
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For more information on this topic go to

www.bertl.com Paper Handling: Input Features Summary
Standard: 1 x 550-sheet
universal cassette
WHAT WE LIKED: 1 x 550-sheet
cassette
• Flexible paper expansion capabilities include a Standard Paper Capacity 100-sheet bypass
tandem 2,000 sheet large capacity tray (LCT) to Optional: 2 x 550-sheet
maximize letter/A4 capability and dual 550-sheet universal cassettes,
universal drawers for offices, using a broader mix of or 2000-sheet LCT
(letter capable)
media supplies.
Maximum Paper Capacity 3,200 sheets
• Heavy media is supported through all main supplies
rather than just the bypass, as found on some rival Bypass Tray Capacity 100 sheets
systems.
Maximum Paper Size (bypass) 12” x 18”/A3+
• Paper cassette handles can be gripped from above
Maximum Paper Size
or below, making it easier to open the lower tray. 11” x 17”/A3
(main trays)
• 12” x 18” support through bypass allows users to Max Paper Weight (bypass) 14 to 67 lb. Bond
create full bleed ledger/A3 documents such as product
brochures, menus, etc., by trimming the unprinted Max Paper Weight
16 to 57 lb. Bond
(main trays)
borders.
Standard Legal Capacity 650 sheets
• The sliding design (rather than pre-cut holes) of the
paper guides allows for easy, one hand changes. Maximum Legal Capacity 1,750 sheets
Standard Ledger Capacity 650 sheets

WHAT WE WOULD LIKE TO SEE:
Maximum Ledger Capacity 1,750 sheets
Standard Paper Sources 3
Maximum Paper Sources 5
Post Process Insertion (PPI) N/A
PPI Capacity N/A

Paper Handling: Paper Output/Finishing January 2007
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www.bertl.com Paper Handling: Output/Finishing Features Summary
3,625 sheets with
Maximum Output Capacity
WHAT WE LIKED:
finisher added
Duplex Capability Standard
• A wide range of finishing capabilities delivers a
Maximum Paper Weight
broad mix of document production capabilities within a Through Duplex Unit
90 lbs. Index/163gsm
small footprint.
Maximum Stapling Capacity 50 sheets
• Heavy card support through duplex unit lets users
Maximum Booklet/Saddle-stitch
produce professional grade presentation materials. 15 sheets, 60 page booklet
Capacity
• Tight stacking of collated sets make offline finishing Hole Punch Options 2 and 3 hole
tasks, such as perfect binding or professional punch, Limit of 5 output areas via fin-
less time-consuming. Physical Mail Bin Option
isher or job separator options
• High stacking capacity allows for long uninterrupted Folding Options Booklet fold only
print runs.
Real World Testing: Advertised speeds are always
quoted using the simplest route, in and out of a device.
In the real world, users choose finishing options, incor-
• 12” x 18” support through the duplex unit would porate multiple media supplies, print in duplex, and add
allow full bleed presentation materials to be produced. other elements that can impact bottom-line speed.
This is not possible because the bypass cannot be used
in conjunction with duplexing and the bypass is the only BERTL evaluates these factors looking at how the same
media supply that handles 12” x 18.” job outputs at different speeds when different factors
are applied. In the table, bottom right, the finishing im-
• The saddle-stitch booklet creation feature is hidden pact is measured by running a 12 page job 10 times
several layers deep in the finishing menu and could be through a device and adding a different finishing attrib-
confusing to some novice users. A standard default one- ute each time. In the table, bottom left, the impact of
touch on the display would be more convenient. Note: incorporating multiple media sources into a single docu-
Users can set up the saddle-stitch booklet mode as a ment is measured. In this instance, a 50-page docu-
one touch operation, using the touch screen ment is printed first using a single media source/ It is
customization feature. The user would also have to then timed using the bypass tray for front and back cov-
select both this one touch button and the saddle-stitch ers, plus pages 10,20,30, and 40 from a separate media
booklet mode feature to create the desired saddle- tray.
stitched booklet.

Routine Maintenance January 2007
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www.bertl.com Maintenance Features Summary
Black: 23,000 pages
Toner Yield
CMY: 17,000 pages
WHAT WE LIKED:
Imaging Unit Life Info Not Available
• The large touch screen and Flash demonstrations
that walk users through jam removal were highly-intuitive Fuser Life Info Not Available
and simple for even novice users to master.
Developer Life Info Not Available
• Imaging drums are well protected and not exposed
during paper jam removal as found on some rival units. Toner Refill During Printing No
End-user replaceable Imaging

• Imaging drums can be replaced by end users; only Unit
Yes
one screw must be removed.
End-user replaceable fuser unit No
• The duplex unit is on the opposite side to the
finisher, making access easier than on some rival units.
• Paper jam areas were easy to access with no blind

spots discovered during evaluation.
• Toner bottles were easily replaced without mess.
• Unique toner bottle docking stations prevent wrong

colors from being loaded in error.
• Although only a screw driver is needed now,

removal of imaging drums without any tools would be
better.
Toner replacement can be carried out without interrupting jobs
in progress.

Device Management January 2007
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WHAT WE LIKED:
• The queue manager provides a full list of print jobs,

including page and set quantities, giving desktop users a
good feel for the print workflow lined up for processing.
• Device and user accounting can be set to only

require user verification for specific tasks. Monochrome
workflow can move uninhibitedly while the more costly
color or scan workflows are restricted to user-verified
actions only.
• Full color capability can be granted, but users are

forced to feed everything through the Auto Color
Selection (ACS) mode. This can remove any
unnecessary four-color process copying of monochrome
pages. Above: Status Monitoring
Below: Job Queue Monitoring
• Design of device management interface from both
the desktop and walk up panel are very user friendly,
allowing for quick efficient maintenance and
management.
• Well-designed and user-friendly device management

from the walk up touch screen interface allows users to
quickly view, reorder and delete jobs in the queue.
• The ability to view copy job specs such as color or

monochrome, paper size, etc., would let users see if
supply issues might arise and if high expense jobs are
queued up.
• The ability to pause a job in the queue from desktop

or device touch screen would allow administrators to
check on a job before releasing.
• The ability to assign volume limits within the

standard cost accounting module would provide
additional cost controls.

Device Management January 2007
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Cost control Reporting Job Log Accounting
Address Book Editing Each event can be directed to a specific response group.

Security January 2007
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www.bertl.com Security Features Summary
Hard Drive Overwrite Optional
WHAT WE LIKED: Removable Hard Drive No
Private Print Standard

• Advanced permissioning levels for documents
stored on the document server and attachments sent in Encrypted Print Standard
scan mode include read/write levels.
Secure Fax Optional
• We liked the secure scan transmission with
Encrypted PDF Send Standard
encrypted PDF capability.
Network Authentication Yes
• Secure fax transmission and fax forwarding to PIN
protected mailboxes or email addresses is useful.
LDAP Authentication Yes
• Secure print send capability is standard with the

Kerberos Authentication No
ability to reprint multiple documents in a single step.
SNMP v3.0 Yes
• Extensive user authentication capabilities restrict
access to the device across all disciplines as required.
IPv6 Yes
• SNMP v3, IPv6, port lockdown and IP filtering
support reduce opportunities for hackers. SSL Yes
• Background Numbering and unauthorized Copy IP Filtering Yes (IPv4 and IPv6)
modes add extra security to hard copy materials.
MAC Filtering No
• MAC filtering would deliver even greater lockdown

since a MAC address, once created on hardware,
cannot be changed or edited.
• Biometrics—for either user authentication and/or

secure print/fax queue release—would provide added
security.
• The Unauthorized Copy mode would be enhanced

with auto detection and blocking of documents. An email
identifying the users could be sent automatically to
security.
• The automatic inclusion of user code or

authentication stamp onto any document with
unauthorized copy stamp would track the document
back to the creator.

Security January 2007
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Secure / Locked Print
The Ricoh Aficio MP C3500 includes secure print feature

called Locked Print as a standard feature.
Users can send jobs with a PIN using the job tab in all
three drivers selecting ‘Locked Print’ from the Job Type
drop down menu.
Users have the option to include their user name and a

PIN before each delivery or have it defaulted to send the
same user name and PIN for each job.
To access locked print jobs, users select the print hard

button on the left of the touchscreen. The print icon at
the bottom of the touch screen allows users to view the
status window. Then pressing Print Jobs takes the user
to the middle image on the opposite side.
All locked print jobs are listed by user, but each file
name is disguised with **s. Users are able to select
Above: Locked print is selected in the printer driver
multiple jobs for release at the same time, saving Below: The list of all users with locked jobs is displayed
valuable time versus some competitors. However, users
are unable to see the names of their jobs even if they
enter the PIN.
This can cause problems for users who have defaulted

to send all of their print workload in locked print format to
guarantee security, preferring instead to batch print
multiple jobs at a single visit to the device. This works
well unless the user suddenly needs one job already
submitted quickly. The device’s design prohibits the user
from distinguish the jobs, leaving the user playing
Russian roulette until the right print job gets printed.
Above: Walk up users can release one or multiple highlighted jobs

in a single step as long as they have the same PIN.

Accessibility January 2007
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WHAT WE LIKED:
• While not offering an adjustable tilting capability, the

large, full-color touch screen control panel is sloping,
which makes viewing easy for users that stand and
users in wheelchairs.
• Hard buttons on the control panel are concave

versus convex, as found on rival units. The concave
buttons are easier to use by the physically impaired.
• Braille markers are found on key buttons, aiding

navigation for the visually impaired.
• The low grip angle of document feeder allows for

easy repeat platen scanning tasks.
Above : Document feeder can be left at a low angle, aiding platen

copying for wheelchair users
WHAT WE WOULD LIKE TO SEE: Below: Paper drawers all have handles that can be grasped from
above and below, making paper refilling easier for wheelchair users
• In the Simplified Display mode, the Next Job is not
available to users. While a job is in progress, a walk-up
user can not return to default display mode. This means
that if the Simplified Display mode has been used for
the creation of a long job, additional users can not add
jobs into the memory of the device. This removes the
concurrency capabilities of the device.

Copy January 2007
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www.bertl.com Copy Features Summary
Maximum Copy Speed 35 ppm black/35 ppm color
WHAT WE LIKED: 4.9 sec. black,

First Copy Out Time
8 sec. color
• The user-friendly interface provides both Reversing automatic document
Document Feeder Type
experienced and novice users with a quick and easy feeder
method of building copy jobs, with many of the most
Document Feeder Capacity 100 pages
commonly-used features on the opening screen. In
addition, up to six unique one-touch buttons bring Job Build Standard
common applications within a single finger press.
Scan Ahead Copy Standard—8
• Image quality was to a high level across a wide
No. of Copy Job Programs 10
range of document types with even mid greyscales being
reproduced to a good level on full color pages. Customizable One-touch
Standard, max 6
Buttons on Main Screen
• Good second and third generation copy
reproduction, even with white text on solid backgrounds Max/Min Zoom Ratio 25% to 400%
(a problem on some units), resulted in a perfect 100
percent score in BERTL’s Triple Play test. (see later in Cover Insertion Yes
report).
Sheet Insertion Yes
• Extensive batch job build capabilities include the Page number, background set
large 100-sheet document feeder, the ability to change Page Stamp Options number, date, preset stamp,
color/greyscale, media sizes, original type, reduction/ user stamp
enlargement and color edit mode.
• A color removal process can be used to clean up

originals that have been edited or highlighted.
• Convert color and color background capabilities can

be used to quickly change one color to another or add a
colored background to a document. These features
could have applications in small financial/insurance
businesses that are now using multi-part forms.
• The reversing document feeder design results in

longer original processing wait times when handling
double-sided originals than a single-pass alternative.
• Users cannot choose cover and insert/designate
media supplies ad hoc during the job build.
• More productive scanning in mixed media mode

would reduce the impact on user productivity when
handling large copy jobs such as handling legal
discovery.

Copy January 2007
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To assess copy productivity, BERTL ran a series of 5-page up by feeding paper from the shortest paper route to the short-
copy jobs to investigate the impact of the first set out on overall est available output destination. A separate test found in the
engine speed and also to investigate whether specific job at- finishing section looks into the productivity impact of adding
tributes impact engine throughput capability. Each job was set finishing/output destinations.

Copy Productivity January 2007
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Real World Testing: Of course, judging productivity based Touch Screen Selections Required for
solely on green button to output tray excludes the user, Commonly-used Copy Functions
who is the most important element in the equation.
Corner Staple 1 step
BERTL takes the user into account and looks at how the
document feeder productivity on different workflow tasks Hole Punch 1 step
impacts the amount of time a user has to wait at the device Enlarge to 129% 2 steps
before they can walk away with originals in hand.
2:2 1 step
BERTL also evaluates how much time is spent building Photo Mode 1 step
jobs, using the touch screen interface before the green
button can be selected. Mixed Original 2 steps
Cover Mode (printed front cover on 2 steps (media set as
bypass supply) default)
Real World Testing: In a perfect world, all original docu- Batch and Mixed-Media Copy Capabilities
ments are the same size, the same type, and require the Batch /job build scanning beyond the capacity
same imaging settings. BERTL looks beyond the perfect Yes
of the document feeder
world to see how devices help those working with difficult
Batch/job build scanning incorporating both
workflow situations. document feeder and platen scans
Yes
Take the example of a paralegal scanning a case file. The Change original type (text, text/photo, photo
No
modes between scans)
file could well contain both letter- and legal-sized docu-
ments, requiring a mixed media capability. The report text Change between simplex and duplex original
No
pages are best captured using the document feeder in scanning in a job build session
Text or Text/Photo mode. However, the accident scene Mixed-media size scanning capability Yes
photographs are best scanned using the platen (to avoid
damage) in Photo mode, which captures the halftone de-
tail to a much better degree. There may also be simplex
and duplex pages in the same batch. Rather than waste
more paralegal time, it would be ideal to be able to switch
between single-sided and double sided scanning.

Copy Image Quality January 2007
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Image Quality Summary

A BERTL Image quality copy
Copy image quality was good on the whole across a reproduction test pattern with
wide range of originals on the Ricoh Aficio MP C3500. multiple fonts in varying sizes,
colors and backgrounds from 4
point.
Fine line grids in black and

blue from 0.25 pt upwards.
Greyshades from 0—100 per-

cent in sliding scale and 5 per-
cent block increments.
Portions of the copied test

chart are displayed on the
Real World Testing: Generation Copy Quality following page
When evaluating MFP image quality, analysts are always

working with the best possible scenario by using high qual-
ity paper and first generation pristine masters. However,
the real world is often very different, with people often A BERTL digital photograph
working with second or third generation copies. Just con- reproduction test pattern.
sider a law firm. The firm is sent a COPY of the materials Photographs carefully se-
(quite possibly copies of originals) by a new client (the lected to highlight ability to
master set). They then make multiple copies of the master reproduce flesh tones, light
set (working copies), which get passed around the lawyers and dark contrasts, textures,
and paralegals involved in the case. After redaction and fine detail and solid colors.
other editing work, the working copies may be scanned to
Original document created in
create electronic files that are preferably searchable Illustrator with Perceptual
through Optical Character Recognition (OCR). Intent, RGB color space, Pro-
Photo Profile. The originals
To simulate this real world practice BERTL uses a test pat- were printed on heavyweight
tern of its own design, and, using generic Staples copy satin paper using a Canon
paper, makes first, second, and third generation copies of imagePROGRAF 9000 driven
the test sheet in text mode. These copies are then by an EFI ColorProof XF 3.0
scanned (using the same device) at 600 dpi in text mode RIP.
and fed through ABBYY FineReader 8.0 at BERTL’s work-
flow lab. The results are displayed in the chart below.
BERTL’s generation copy

original containing five fonts
ranging from 4 point to 14
point.
Originals printed on high qual-

ity heavyweight paper using
1,200 dpi laser printer. Each
original is checked to ensure
100 percent OCR accuracy is
achieved when scanned at
600 dpi binary on an in-house
scanner.

Copy Image Quality January 2007
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Text Mode:
Text/Photo Mode
Photo Mode:

Print-On-Demand January 2007
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www.bertl.com Print on Demand Features Summary
Job Storage From the Device Yes
WHAT WE LIKED: Job Storage From the Desktop Yes
Finishing Options Included at

• Viewing documents either from the desktop or from Time of Storage
No
the color touch screen as full color images with zoom-in
capabilities is a valuable feature. The user can read the Document Images (incl.
document data prior to printing, reducing errors. thumbnails) Provided on the Yes
Device Touch Screen
• Combining multiple files into a single job can make Document Images (incl.
multi-author tasks easier to manage. thumbnails) Provided on the Yes
Desktop
• Attaching documents stored in the Document Server Multiple Jobs Can Be Combined
to outgoing communications can be a valuable, time- and Printed as One Finished Yes
saver. Job
Multiple Jobs Can Be Selected
Yes
• Combining multiple destination delivery types into a and Printed as Separate Jobs
single task can save time in complex processes. Stored Jobs Can Be Edited After
Yes
Storage
• Permissioning of documents allows the time saving
Stored Jobs Can Be Combined
functionality of print on demand to be used without Yes
With Send Features
jeopardizing security or confidentiality of information.
• Sophisticated search and retrieve functionality,

including the ability to filter by user name, makes finding
documents in heavily used repositories fast.
• The ability to create personal folders within the

document server rather than using the flat storage
design would aid in organization.
• Productivity would be increased by adding the ability

to create collated batch jobs from Document Server
where a selection of documents are printed as a batch
set, but are treated as individual pieces that should be
finished in isolation.
• Documents stored on Document Server from the

Print or Copy functions must be pulled to the desktop A selection of commonly used jobs stored in document server
using the File Convert utility, resaved, and resubmitted
prior to being faxed or scanned to different destinations.
• Print on demand from portable media sources like

USB memory sticks or SD cards is a useful feature that
lets walk-up users take advantage of the device in
airport terminals, hotel business lounges or Internet
cafes.

Print January 2007
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Print Features Summary
WHAT WE LIKED: CPU 835MHz
• The user-friendly, icon-driven RPCS driver offers RAM and Hard Drive 1GB, 80GB Hard Drive
high levels of print functionality with minimum effort.
Operating Platforms Windows 9x, ME, 2000, Server 2003,
• Advanced print clustering capabilities via Supported XP, NT 4.0, Macintosh OS X or higher
SmartDeviceMonitor include automatic or semi-
automatic job rerouting and load balancing. This ensures PCL5e/6, RPCS, optional Adobe Post-
Printer Drivers
that in multi-device environments, network print Script 3, Direct PDF
downtime and bottlenecks are kept to a minimum.
IPX/SPX , TCP/IP, Ethertalk, Appletalk,
NetBIOS, LPR/LPD, IPP, SMB, SNMP,
• The RPCS driver offers extensive page stamping Network Protocols
Netware, Port 9100,
capabilities that can aid printing of documents created in
applications that do not offer numbering or other
capabilities. 10BaseT/100BaseTX Ethernet, USB
Interfaces/Standard
2.0
• The Job Binding feature in the RPCS driver, coupled 802.11b Wireless, Bluetooth, 1394
with DesktopBinder utility, allows users to combine FireWire, parallel, USB host interface
Interfaces/Options
multiple documents created in single or multiple for PictBridge interface printing from
applications into a single file for batch printing. digital cameras.
DeskTopBinder, SmartDeviceMonitor,
Client Software
• The image overlay capability in the RPCS driver WebSmartDeviceMonitor
allows users to add standard background designs, such
as company forms or presentation layouts, to the device Std PCL Fonts Sup- 35 Intellifonts, 10 TrueType fonts, 1
for addition to documents at the device level. This ported Bitmap
eliminates a need to RIP the files at the desktop and
send them over the network for processing every time. Std PS Fonts Supported Info Not Available
• The Limitations capability in the RPCS driver allows

administrators to lock down the features and document
policies through user code or authentication, reducing
costs without hindering productivity.
• Direct PDF capability could be offered as a standard

feature.
• Direct USB memory stick print capability would

provide walk up print capability in kiosk-like
environments where printer drivers are not available or
convenient.
• Printing Adobe PDF documents in booklet layout

using the PostScript driver encounters the same
imposition error that is prevalent among many MFP and
printer vendors.

Print Productivity January 2007
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Evaluating print productivity is not as simple as timing copy Bandwidth Comparison

jobs. The printing process involves several steps and can
be impacted by a variety of factors along the way. Original
file size PCL PS
The document must first be spooled by the printer driver per page
into a PCL or PostScript file. The PCL or PostScript file is 50-page Text-Based Government
3.40 KB 2.28 MB 1,73 MB
then sent to the printer where it is raster image processed Report PDF
(RIP) into image data by the device processor. The image 22-page Financial Guide Excel
data is then sent to the marking engine and output as 5.54 KB 289 KB 943 KB
Worksheet
printed pages.
32-page Text-Based PowerPoint 7.25 KB 1.40 MB 2.37 MB
There are three obvious factors highlighted above (spool 4 page Passport Form PDF 19.75 KB 179 KB 504 KB
time, rip time, and print engine speed), which can all make 38-page Form Word Document 24.00 KB 955 KB 13.4 MB
or break a productivity time. Add into the equation other
factors such as concurrency and contention, and one 32 page NASA PDF Education
60.90 KB 4.88 MB 3.08 MB
Resource Printed as Ledger Booklet
would have a real world not quite so clean cut as some
analysts would have people believe. 16-page Magazine in PDF 111.25 KB 2.06 MB 3.41 MB
BERTL provides a selection of print productivity data: 6-page Graphic Intensive DTP PDF 130.33 KB 1.50 MB 1.28 MB
32-page Graphic Intensive PowerPoint 131.24 KB 2.38 MB 23.0 MB

• Raw RIP and print speed data (as displayed below)
• Concurrency and contention workflows (see next 16-page Graphical Publisher Report 936 KB 6.90 MB 3.41 MB
page)
2-page High Resolution Menu PDF 2358 KB 2.07 MB 6.68 MB
• Driver design on spool / rip times (when a Windows
print system driver is offered alongside PCL/PS) Digital Photographs PDF 4483 KB 675 KB 5.79 MB

Print Workflow January 2007
www.bertl.com
Real World Testing: Batch Printing Batch Printing Capabilities
Batch Printing: In the real world, people are often faced

with multiple files that need to be treated as a single print Multiple jobs all combined into a single finished
Yes
workflow entity. There are two main scenarios for this: document
Multiple jobs all combined into a single finished

1) Multiple authors contributing to a single document document with page numbering/watermarking Yes
2) Collated sets comprised of multiple individual docu- added
ments.
Multiple jobs sent in collated sets Yes
These two workflow scenarios put MFPs and printers to
task, as they demand more than just the ability to spool,
Multiple jobs sent in collated sets with finishing/
RIP, and print a file as fast as possible. job attribute changes on a job-by-job basis
No
Real World Testing: Concurrency or Contention? Concurrency Test Results
MFPs by their nature are designed to handle multiple

tasks, acting as the printer, copier, scanner, even fax.
BERTL looks at whether these tasks impact each other. Print slowdown when scanning in copy job No
In BERTL’s concurrency test, a large print file is submitted

to print. When spooling has completed, the rate pages are Print slowdown when scanning in scan job No
exited is measured. The BERTL analyst then carries out
tasks to see if the print output rate is affected.
Print slowdown when scan data transfer under-
No
way
Real World Testing: Network Traffic
Network printing devices may often face a queue of jobs

stacked up for processing during busy periods of the day.
During BERTL’s network workload tests, analysts queue a

series of jobs at a paused print driver. The jobs are ar-
ranged in order of their raw application file size per page.
The purpose of the test is to illustrate how well a device
handles a stream of jobs and how the queues make-up
can have a major impact on a device’s performance.
BERTL is not trying to suggest that a series of jobs is an
example of a typical office as this would be misleading.
The series is sent to the printer with the lowest file size per
page sent first (minimizing the processing workload at the
start of the test and allowing efficient fat engine devices to
continue processing jobs while the print engine outputs the
first).
The queue is then reversed and resubmitted with the larg-

est file size per page sent first, placing the greater strain
on the processor rather than the engine speed.

PCL Print Driver Functionality January 2007
www.bertl.com
The PCL6 driver has a familiar look and feel following For those searching for more media flexibility, the Paper tab
industry-standard layout and design. The Set up tab allows users to specify a media supply for the front, back
provides the main print functionality. Job delivery options and chapter/insert pages. This flexible feature set allows a
include private and sample print modes, plus an option to wide range of professional documents to be produced.
send jobs to the Document Server for print on demand Unlike the Copy mode, users can chose the media supply
purposes. for each section on the fly rather than having to use the pre-
For those not needing multiple media supplies in a single assigned cover stock.
document, all major features are found on the opening tab.
This eliminates a need to navigate away from the opening
tab, reducing job build times.
Print Quality settings provide both automated and custom

adjustment opportunities depending upon the user color
experience. Resolution is set to 600 dpi with no enhanced
mode (RPCS offers up to 2,400 x 600 dpi interpolated
mode). Within the manual Advanced settings, users can
choose specific color settings including an HP Color
LaserJet-simulated profile that allows migrating users to
keep accustomed output qualities.

RPCS Print Driver Functionality January 2007
www.bertl.com
To change a custom setting, users select Add/Change Cus- A wide variety of layout options are available, including
tom Settings icon on the opening screen. From here, they poster mode (useful for creating large display materials),
have five tabs that can be used to build the job profile. The multiple booklet and magazine layouts, and a selection
Set up tab has the main media features, job delivery mode of publishing features including page and date stamping,
options and set selection. overlay insertion, watermarking and more.
The RPCS driver comes with four predefined image quality Chapter and designate page programming can be as-
profiles as standard. Users can also program their own signed on a page by page basis, allowing complex jobs
styles and store them as user settings. with multiple media supplies to be built up.

Print Image Quality January 2007
www.bertl.com
Image Quality
Visual Representation of Print Originals Print Output Scanned at 600 dpi
Above: Black Font Output

Right: Red Fine Line

Scan January 2007
www.bertl.com

www.bertl.com Scan Features Summary
Maximum Scan Speed (Mono) 63 opm
WHAT WE LIKED: 38 opm (58 opm with opt. File

Maximum Scan Speed (Color)
Format Conversion)
• Color dropout capability allows users to remove Document Feeder Capacity 100 sheets
unwanted form backgrounds, highlighted edits to text
10/100BaseT Ethernet
documents, and other areas where color can have a Connectivity Options IEEE 1394
negative impact on scanning workflow. IEEE 802.11b Wireless
Scan to e-mail Yes
• The high compression PDF mode reduces
bandwidth of files significantly, which will reduce the risk Scan to SMB Yes
of firewall rejection and increased transmission rates.
Scan to FTP Yes
• Extensive security capabilities, including PDF Scan to HDD Yes

encryption and permission settings, make Yes (job stored on Document
communications more secure and users less vulnerable Scan to URL Server with email sent with URL
to personal information data breaches. link)
Scan to Internet Fax Yes
• Preview mode allows users to check that each page
of a scanned document has been captured before TWAIN Scanning Yes
releasing the job to a destination. Scan to External Memory
No
Source (USB/SD card)
• The Scan and store function stores the document on
Network Authentication Yes
the Document Server and emails a link to the recipient,
allowing them to make the decision of when to download LDAP Authentication Yes
the data.
TIFF, PDF, JPEG, High com-
File Formats Supported
pression PDF
Encrypted PDF Format Yes
100, 200 dpi, 300 dpi,
• One touch .com, .net, .edu and .gov would be useful Resolution Options 400 dpi, 600 dpi,
additions to the QWERTY keypad design, allowing users (1200 dpi BW TWAIN)
to be more efficient entering adhoc email addresses.
Ad hoc Subject Line Entry Yes
One scanner manufacturer has already implemented this
solution. Taking the scenario one step further, we would Ad hoc Message Line Entry Yes
like to see the ability to program custom one touch
Ad hoc File Name Entry Yes
extensions. This could be used to add a whole company
extension or common free extensions such as
@aol.com, @hotmail.com and gmail.com.
• We would like to see better productivity when

scanning duplex originals and when handling mixed
original batches, with both of these workflows resulting in
significant slowdowns in scanning productivity.
• Better productivity when scanning in high

compression PDF mode would be more efficient.
• Better batch scanning capabilities including the

ability to switch between color and black modes, simplex Ricoh document feeder processing purchase orders on thin NCR
and duplex and image quality settings. media stock successfully.

Scan Data Capture Accuracy January 2007
www.bertl.com
Real World Testing: Scanning in its simplest workflow is

to convert a hard copy printed image into an electronic
image. This may be all that is needed when sending a
scan to email or making an archive copy of an order using
scan to desktop. However, the vast majority of scanning
workflow involves converting hard copy into an intelligent
image that can be further processed by OCR engines,
forms processing applications, or other automated informa-
tion management processes. In all of these workflows, the
conversion of text (captured as an image by the scanner)
into editable, searchable text is a critical first step. To in-
vestigate this important workflow issue, BERTL ran a se-
ries of standard test patterns with multiple font types,
sizes, and colors, capturing the data at various resolutions
using both text and text/photo settings.
After scanning each page of its test originals, BERTL ana-

lysts ran the scanned files through OCR software—ABBYY
FineReader 8.0 in default configuration. The accuracy of
the scanning process at the various resolutions and set- Above is a portion of BERTL’s OCR test chart scanned at 200 dpi (top),
tings is reflected in the number of words that the OCR ap- 300 dpi (middle), and 600 dpi (bottom) in text format and saved as a PDF
plication converts correctly without human intervention. file. The image has been zoomed to 400 percent in Adobe Acrobat and
screen-captured for display. The top line is 6 point, and the bottom line 8.
point.

Scan Productivity January 2007
www.bertl.com
Scan Bandwidth Comparison

Real World Testing: Measuring scan productivity with
a stopwatch is only capturing a small part of the overall
workflow picture. However, removing accuracy, network 200 dpi black 1997 KB
bandwidth considerations and other human intervention
elements, such as jam rates, BERTL measures the time 300 pi black 3416 KB
that a user spends at a device to carry out the initial
scanning phase of getting the originals processed and 600 dpi black 9743 KB
into the device memory. To do this, BERTL uses 25
copies of a government agency form that is printed ini- 200 dpi grey 7064 KB
tially in full color. The originals are then scanned at dif-
ferent resolutions, creating PDF files and (if offered by 300 dpi grey 12,539 KB
the manufacturer) compressed and searchable PDFs.
The time taken to get the originals through the docu- 600 dpi grey 34,748 KB
ment feeder is recorded.
200 dpi color 8613 KB
The time to get the files back to the desktop, FTP loca-
tion, or email address is not an exact science. It relies 300 dpi color 15,293 KB
on other network factors that are out of the user’s con-
trol. The lower the bandwidth the faster the data trans- 600 dpi color 43,219 KB
fer, whatever the bandwidths, so BERTL provides the
file size created by each scan process.
color compressed PDF (300 dpi) 4799 KB

Scanning Batches and Mixed Originals January 2007
www.bertl.com
Real World Testing: In a perfect world, all original docu- Batch and Mixed-Media Scanning Capabilities
ments are the same size, the same type, and require the
Batch/job build scanning beyond the capacity
same imaging settings. of the document feeder
Yes
BERTL looks beyond the perfect world to see how devices Batch/job build scanning incorporating both
Yes
document feeder and platen scans
help those working with difficult workflow situations.
Change scan settings such as original type,
Take the example of a paralegal scanning a case file. The original size, etc. from scan-page to scan- Limited
page
file could contain both letter- and legal-sized documents,
requiring a mixed media capability. Mixed-media size scanning capability Yes
The report text pages are best captured using the docu-
ment feeder in Text or Text/Photo mode. However, the
accident scene photographs are best scanned using the
platen (to avoid damage) in Photo mode, which captures
the halftone detail to a much better degree.
There may also be simplex and duplex pages in the same

batch. Rather than waste more paralegal time, it would be
ideal to be able to switch between single-sided and double
sided scanning.
Real World Testing: While scanning speeds and duty Advertised Document Feeder Specifications
volumes may be based on perfect standard letter/A4 sized
office-grade laser printer paper, there is a much wider Minimum Original Size 5.5” x 8.5”
range of media substrates that is commonly used and han-
dled in the office world every day. Maximum Original Size 11” x 17”
Manufacturers advertise a range of media sizes and Minimum Original Weight 11 lb. Bond
weights that they have tested and feel comfortable with Maximum Original Weight 34 lb. Bond
their device handling efficiently.
BERTL looks beyond the manufacturer quoted capabilities Original-Handling Results

and on many occasions finds that the limits can be consid- (50 originals scanned at 200 dpi monochrome) setting
erably extended to accommodate those occasions when 67 lb. Cover Stock Registration
office staff need to copy non standard office paper. Fed successfully
Cards
Jamming on long edge feed, but
Note: A device should not be considered a failure if it does Yellow Pages (newspaper grade
fed successfully on short edge
not get a 100 percent success rate in any of the original media)
feed
handling tests. These tests are deliberately designed to
Magazine with heavy glossy cover
push the boundaries. and 20 lb. glossy coated inside Fed successfully
pages
Carbonless Purchase Order Forms Fed successfully
Business Cards Could not be fed
Coated Inkjet Paper Fed successfully
4” x 6” Index Cards Jams occurred repeatedly
20 lb. bond office paper fed with

leading edge damage due to staple Fed successfully
removal

Multifunction Triple Play Test January 2007
www.bertl.com
The Ultimate Multifunction Test: Manufacturers promote The third generation output is then scanned at 300 dpi,
their devices as being multi-tasking, multi-functional using text mode, and converted into a PDF file.
solutions. BERTL aggressively tests this claim with its new
Triple Play test. The PDF file is run through ABBYY FineReader 8.0 where
the data capture accuracy is assessed, leaving the ABBYY
In BERTL’s other tests, analysts are careful to ensure that FineReader 8.0 in default settings.
only one factor is entered into the equation at a time to
provide the reader with specific result that stem from one The file contains 100 words across the multiple fonts and
user selection/action. color combinations. To achieve a perfect 100 percent
BERTL Triple Play score, the device would need to show
In the triple play test, the device’s overall multifunctional all 100 words correctly detected by ABBYY FineReader 8.0
capabilities are put under the microscope. without a need for human intervention.
A BERTL test master file has been created as a standard This first one-of-a-kind
CMYK document, using Adobe Illustrator to ensure the multifunctional test will
highest quality original with vector graphics, then RIPped at show users how an
1,200 dpi into a PDF format using Adobe Acrobat 8.0 MFP affects a
Professional set to Press Quality. document throughout
its entire potential
This document contains Times New Roman and Arial fonts lifecycle in both hard
in 10 pt. text in black, blue and red on a white background, copy and soft copy
plus 12 pt. white and yellow text on a black background. formats.
The document is first printed using high quality color laser

paper on the test device, using the PostScript driver set to
its highest image quality to ensure the best print quality.
The printed output is then copied in text mode, using Thumbnail of the BERTL
default settings. The output is then copied (to create Triple Play test sheet
second generation output), and the second generation
output is copied, creating a third generation copy.
BERTL Triple Play Rating
100%

Summing Up January 2007
www.bertl.com
Building on the platform of the MP C2500 and 3000 that

BERTL has already tested and been very impressed with,
the Ricoh Aficio MP C3500 takes Ricoh’s next-generation
business color product lineup even further upstream by
reaching 35 ppm color and 35 ppm black. This is backed
by additional processing horsepower and superior paper
input and output handling capabilities.
Again, the user has been placed firmly at the center of the
design concept for the device with every new feature
seemingly added to make the experience shorter and
more accurate for the user, be it a copy, print, print on
demand or scan operation.
Ricoh has managed to strike a perfect balance, raising the

bar in the office color MFP marketplace while maintaining
sufficient similarities to its past devices. The learning
curve for existing customers will be short for features they
already use, and they can take advantage of the new
features with little to no training requirement.
There are no obvious areas of weakness on this device.

While this report includes “What we would like to see”
references, most are wish lists that build upon features
and technologies of the device that would extend the
feature set even further—rather than bringing the device
up to par with rival devices.
As with all MFPs today, the feature set is way beyond that
of any single user, and—much like software—many
environments will never use more than 10 percent of the
product’s capabilities. However, as the business world
becomes more and more focused on workflow, the need
to offer a diverse feature set to cater to as many vertical
sector environments as possible will continue to grow.
The biggest challenge for Ricoh’s sales force will not be

describing what the device can do, but rather knowing
which of the features the device offers are going to be
beneficial to the customer they are facing.
We would recommend that buyers put together a list of the

workflow tasks they are currently carrying out, or wish to
carry out, and use this as a starting point when sitting
down with a sales representative to discus the merits of
the Ricoh Aficio MP C3500.

About BERTL January 2007
www.bertl.com
About BERTL BERTL Services
The success of an organization depends on its ability to Reports and Star Ratings
manage its information and assets. An effective workflow BERTL analysts provide detailed reports on the technical
process requires the complex integration of information, and practical benefits of thousands of color and mono-
devices, software, and people. chrome workgroup, office, graphic arts, and production de-
vices.
IT managers, office managers, and other knowledge man-
agement professionals need to know what digital imaging
Product Specifications
devices would best serve their specialized workflow proc-
esses. DataCheck Gen II provides the most current competitive
data on printers, copiers, MFPs, fax devices, wide format
BERTL’s services are designed around this real-world printers, scanners, and more.
framework, delivering business consumers the independent
analysis and insight needed to make critical decisions about News, Interviews, and Analysis
digital imaging’s role in their organization. The ITchat online magazine provides insight into the dy-
namics and trends of the digital imaging marketplace
Independent Analysis and Insight through interviews, feature articles, and software reviews.
BERTL’s reports, comparative data, and strategic guides BERTL Awards

look at digital imaging through the eyes of the business BERTL analysts recognize the leading devices and soft-
user. The research examines not only the technical fea- ware solutions in the annual BERTL’s Best awards. BERTL
tures, but also vertical market applications, and business also honors the performance of manufacturers in the annual
benefits. The impact on worker productivity is a primary Readers’ Choice selections.
concern.
Contact BERTL
BERTL is 100 percent independent. It receives no funding
from manufacturers and all product evaluations and reports 200 Craig Road
are published at BERTL’s own expense for its subscribers. Manalapan, NJ 07726 USA
Business users worldwide trust BERTL for objective, unbi- Tel 1.732.761.2311
ased analysis of digital imaging systems. Fax 1.732.761.2312
Email: info@bertl.com
www.BERTL.com


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January 2007

Ricoh Aficio MP C3500

Ricoh Aficio MP C3500

35 ppm Monochrome ▪ 35 ppm Color

Print ▪ Copy ▪ Scan ▪ Fax ▪ Internet Fax

Copyright © 2007 MCA Internet, LLC dba BERTL. 22 May 2007

Click on an entry to go to the page listed.

Paper Handling: Paper Input .............................................................................. 5

Paper Handling: Paper Output/Finishing .......................................................... 6

Routine Maintenance .......................................................................................... 7

Device Management ........................................................................................... 8

Copy Image Quality ........................................................................................... 16

Copyright © 2007 MCA Internet, LLC dba BERTL. 22 May 2007

Click on an entry to go to the page listed.

Print Workflow ................................................................................................... 21

PCL Print Driver Functionality ......................................................................... 22

RPCS Print Driver Functionality....................................................................... 23

Print Image Quality............................................................................................ 24

Scan Data Capture Accuracy ........................................................................... 26

Scan Productivity .............................................................................................. 27

Scanning Batches and Mixed Originals .......................................................... 28

Multifunction Triple Play Test .......................................................................... 29

About BERTL .................................................................................................... 31

Copyright © 2007 MCA Internet, LLC dba BERTL. 22 May 2007

The most immediate change is the large full-color touch

It is a testimony to Ricoh’s innovation that many of the

Copyright © 2007 MCA Internet, LLC dba BERTL. 22 May 2007

For more information on this topic go to

Standard Ledger Capacity 650 sheets

Standard Paper Sources 3

Maximum Paper Sources 5

Post Process Insertion (PPI) N/A

PPI Capacity N/A

Copyright © 2007 MCA Internet, LLC dba BERTL. 22 May 2007

For more information on this topic go to

Copyright © 2007 MCA Internet, LLC dba BERTL. 22 May 2007

For more information on this topic go to

End-user replaceable Imaging

• Paper jam areas were easy to access with no blind

• Toner bottles were easily replaced without mess.

• Unique toner bottle docking stations prevent wrong

WHAT WE WOULD LIKE TO SEE:

• Although only a screw driver is needed now,

Copyright © 2007 MCA Internet, LLC dba BERTL. 22 May 2007

For more information on this topic go to

• The queue manager provides a full list of print jobs,

• Device and user accounting can be set to only

• Full color capability can be granted, but users are

• Well-designed and user-friendly device management

WHAT WE WOULD LIKE TO SEE:

• The ability to view copy job specs such as color or

• The ability to pause a job in the queue from desktop

• The ability to assign volume limits within the

Copyright © 2007 MCA Internet, LLC dba BERTL. 22 May 2007

Cost control Reporting Job Log Accounting

Copyright © 2007 MCA Internet, LLC dba BERTL. 22 May 2007

For more information on this topic go to

WHAT WE LIKED: Removable Hard Drive No

Private Print Standard

• Secure print send capability is standard with the

• MAC filtering would deliver even greater lockdown

• Biometrics—for either user authentication and/or