Canon SmartBase MP370

An all-in-one device that's far from dull.

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Price: £149

Manufacturer: Canon

Ratings

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Verdict

Pros:

Sleek design. Direct printing from memory cards and some cameras.

Cons:
Poor photo prints on standard paper.

Overall:
Great features and quality at an affordable price.

Jananie Nadarajah, Computeract!ve 02 Mar 2004

If style is important to you, then this multifunction device from Canon should fit the bill. The MP370 has a sleek black-and-silver finish and solid build. Aside from saving space by combining three devices in one, the MP370 has digital photo features which make it ideal for digital camera users.

Hidden behind a flap is a card reader that will read six types of memory card. This means you can print images directly from a card without having to switch on your PC. A USB port also allows you to print from digital cameras that support direct printing. To assist with this, an index sheet can be printed, allowing you to view all the images from a memory card or camera and mark those you want to print. You then scan the index back through the printer, which reads your selection and prints out your choices.

As far as print speeds go, the results were fairly good. Normal black text printed at six pages per minute and mixed colour images and text tested at just under three, with clear lettering and vibrant colours. An A4 colour page took just less than two minutes to print in standard mode and three minutes on the highest setting.

The only initial disappointment was the quality of colour prints on normal A4 paper - the results were grainy. But in saying this, the MP370 is designed for optimum photo prints and when we used good photo paper, the results were excellent. You also have the choice of printing directly on to 4 x 6in or 5 x 7in paper sizes.

The scanning function of the MP370 is also good. In our tests, 300dpi A4 prints took 15 seconds, 600 dpi tested at 24 seconds and the highest quality of 1,200 dpi took 76 seconds. Thanks to the design of the z-lid, you can easily scan thick documents or books. The MP370 is quick to install and connects to your PC's USB 2 port.

The control panel is easy to use and has buttons for instant scan, photo or copy. There's also a button that allows you to switch between colour and mono. The screen is clear to read and completes an already smart-looking unit.

Contact: Canon 0800 616 417
www.canon.co.uk

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