The DX models are a continuation of Sharp’s new Frontier series, and follow in the wake of the same-speed MX-C311 and MX-C401. The models are basically the same, but the channel approach is different. The MX models can be sold by Sharp dealers only, and have a traditional copier dealer approach, where consumables and warranties are handled exclusively by the dealer, usually resulting in a cost-per-impression-type contract. The DX models are intended for dealers and other channels. The buying cycle is more like that of a printer-multifunctional, where consumables are bought as needed and a one-year warranty is established by Sharp itself. A dealer may, and can, sell both MX and DX models, depending on the requirements of the users.

These machines stand somewhere between traditional copiers and printer-multifunctionals. Like its copier-based products, these models use separate toner, developer, and drum modules, an arrangement that holds down consumables costs. However, like printer-based machines, customers can replace consumables during normal operations. Unlike most copiers, they handle up to legal-size paper rather than the ledger-size usually expected with copiers.

Within this group, the main distinctions are that the DX-C310 and DX-C400 models have somewhat more limited features in terms of PostScript, control panel, and document storage software. The FX models come with standard faxing. The models are moderately priced compared with ledger-size copiers. The 31ppm DX-C310 lists for $6,395 and the DX-C311 and MX-C311 lists for $7,095. The 40ppm DX-C400 list for $7,295, while the DX-C401 and MX-C401 sells for $7,995. The FX versions cost $625 more.

These machines are smaller in size than ledger-size printers, and therefore fit better into a typical workgroup. All the models share a common controller architecture. Models in the series also share some of the software Sharp developed for its higher-end copiers.

All of these models can copy, print, and scan out of the box. Fax is an option, except on the FX ones.

The paper supply is modest. The standard input consists of one 500-sheet input drawer and a 100-sheet bypass tray. You can add a second 500-sheet tray ($435) and two more 500-sheet trays (at $355 each). That makes a maximum input configuration of 2,100 sheets. Automatic duplexing is standard on all models. The bypass handles paper up to 110lb. index.

On the output side, there is a 250-sheet exit tray standard. Sharp also offers an internal finisher with single-position stapling and offset stacking ($1,365). This device holds up to 280 sheets, and it can staple up to 30 pages.

These machines come with a standard reversing document feeder (RADF). It holds up to 50 sheets. A flatbed platen is standard as well. Sharp also offers its business card feeder ($180), which feeds and scans business cards.

The DX-C310, DX-C311, and MX-C311 have 800MHz processors, while the DX-C400, DX-C401 and MX-C401 run on a 1GHz processor. Standard memory on all but the C401 models is 512MB (1GB memory is standard on the C401). An 80GB hard disk drive is standard on all models. That disk is partitioned into a 38GB main folder and a 12GB mailbox area that Sharp calls a “quick folder,” which is used to store faxes, scans, and generally other temporary documents. The balance of the hard drive provides virtual memory, used to support spooling and image processing operations. This disk space may also be used for more permanent file storage, especially overlays and forms. The file storage application is available on the C311 and C401 models only.

Connectivity is through both Ethernet and USB (Gigabit Ethernet is supported). Plus there is a conveniently located front-side USB port to permit printing from or scanning to a flash drive.

The print controller supports standard PCL on all models. The C311 and C401 models come with PostScript as well. You can also print directly from a variety of file types, including PDF, TIFF, and JPEG. Sharp also offers an optional XPS kit and a 1GB memory upgrade. This series allows printing at up to 1,200dpi.

The C310 and C400 models have a 4.3″ color display panel, while the C311 and C401 machines have a very large (8.5″) color touchscreen display. The former have a standard interface, while the latter offer some strong high-end software for the C311 and C401. Most notable is Sharp’s OSA® technology – Sharp can boast of having one of the best systems around for interfacing homegrown applications, as well as those from third-party developers. In addition, Sharp has certified a series of third-party programs that can be run by using the touchscreen. These include a number of specialized applications developed by customers and dealers in the Sharp network, including eCopy and Equitrac.

Sharp’s excellent imageSEND® technology is very strong; with some competitors you need to upgrade to get full scanning capability. Scan-to-file supports a variety of formats, including JPEG and encrypted PDF. You can scan to email, FTP, across the network, and to a mailbox folder on the hard disk. LDAP addressing is supported. A single-station version of Sharpdesk®, Sharp’s file management utility, is standard; you can add other stations for other users on the network. Sharpdesk® software for sophisticated document management is also available, you get one user license standard, and you can buy more.

Faxing, as we have noted, is optional on all but the FX models, at the expected 33.6kbps. There is 8MB of dedicated fax memory. Incoming faxes can be converted to files and rerouted to users. PC fax is also supported. Internet fax is a $545 expansion kit.

Sharp’s Security Suite is another nice plus. Features include file encryption, disk erase, as well as local and network authentication. Access control and auditing are also available. Also available is Sharp’s Commercial Data Security Kit, which data encryption and ensures sensitive data does not remain on the machine.

Sharp includes remote device management through its Remote Front Panel application. This allows access to a network machine from a remote PC workstation. Sharp also offers a system for on-time delivery and replacement of supplies. Finally, the company supports an excellent online suite of support and training materials through My Sharp®.

Sharp is proud of its green credentials, including the Green Contractor Award and the Evergreen Award from the U.S. government. Recycling and waste reduction are strong priorities.

Keep in mind that these models are presented here with suggested retail prices used by dealers to initiate copier leasing discussions. However, Sharp has positioned these models to compete with Lexmark’s and HP’s letter-legal printer MFPs, so you can expect street prices to be in the range of comparable models from those vendors. The entire family gets our Editor’s Choice Award.

Sum-up: Letter/legal copier-multifunctionals with high-end software features and a new dealer sales approach.

Tags: Copier Reviews, Frontier Series, Sharp