OKI Microline 5591eco - printer - monochrome - dot-matrix

OKI Microline 5591eco: The Classic Monochrome Dot‑Matrix Printer

The OKI Microline 5591eco is a rugged, high‑performance monochrome dot‑matrix printer that has become a staple in offices and industrial settings where reliable, continuous printing of forms, invoices, and multi‑copy documents is essential. Designed for the A3 format with a maximum print width of 552 mm (22 inches), this machine delivers crisp text and graphics at an impressive speed of up to 473 characters per second.

Key Technical Specifications

• Print Technology: 24‑pin dot‑matrix head, capable of producing high‑resolution output at 360 × 360 dpi. The head can endure up to 200 million characters, ensuring long service life.
• Maximum Print Speed: 473 cps (characters per second) with a normal speed of 126 cps; this allows rapid production of multi‑copy forms without sacrificing quality.
• Print Width: Up to 272 columns, supporting wide A3 documents and envelopes.
• Buffer Capacity: 128 KB internal memory, sufficient for complex page layouts and large data sets.
• Power Consumption: Typical operating power of 45.9 W, standby consumption drops to 1.5 W. Energy Star certified for efficient operation.
• Noise Level: Printing noise at 56 dB; standby noise at 52 dB, making it suitable for office environments.
• Connectivity: Standard Parallel and USB 2.0 interfaces; optional Ethernet or Serial (RS‑232) ports provide flexibility in networked setups.
• Operating System Compatibility: Works with Windows 2000/XP/Vista/7 and Server 2003/2008 on both 32‑bit and 64‑bit platforms, as well as IBM ProPrinter and Epson ESC/P2 page description languages.
• Paper Handling: Manual, tractor, or push‑feed options; accepts envelopes (standard tray) and other A3 media types.
• Built‑In Barcode Support: EAN13, EAN8, Interleaved 2/5, POSTNET, UPC‑A, UPC‑E – enabling seamless barcode printing without external software.
• Font and Style Options: Supports double height, double width, bold, underline, italic, subscript, superscript, and enhanced fonts. Bitmap fonts include Gothic, OCR‑B, Orator, Prestige, Roman; scalable fonts include Roman and Swiss.

Design and Build Quality

The OKI Microline 5591eco measures 345 mm in depth, 120 mm in height, and weighs approximately 7.8 kg (17.2 lb). Its compact footprint allows it to fit comfortably on a standard office desk or within a production line enclosure. The robust chassis protects the internal components from dust, vibration, and temperature fluctuations typical of high‑volume printing environments.

Durability Highlights

• MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures): 20,000 hours – a testament to OKI’s engineering focus on reliability.
• Print Head Longevity: Designed for 200 million characters, reducing the need for frequent head replacements.
• Noise and Vibration: Quiet operation at 56 dB ensures minimal disruption in shared workspaces.

Performance in Real‑World Scenarios

Whether you’re printing multi‑copy invoices, shipping labels, or long‑form reports, the OKI Microline 5591eco delivers consistent output. Its high character density and fast speed make it ideal for:

• Batch Printing: Generate dozens of copies in a single run with minimal downtime.
• Form Handling: Print on thick, multi‑layer forms without compromising print quality.
• Barcode Integration: Embed barcodes directly into documents for inventory and logistics workflows.
• Legacy System Compatibility: Supports older page description languages (Epson ESC/P2, IBM ProPrinter) while also accommodating modern drivers via USB or Ethernet.

Energy Efficiency and Environmental Impact

The printer’s Energy Star certification reflects its low power draw during idle periods (1.5 W standby) and efficient operation during printing (45.9 W). This makes it an environmentally responsible choice for businesses looking to reduce their carbon footprint without sacrificing performance.

Installation and Setup

Setting up the OKI Microline 5591eco is straightforward:

1. Power Connection: Connect the AC adapter (220–240 V, 50–60 Hz) to a grounded outlet.
2. Paper Loading: Insert envelopes or A3 media into the standard tray; adjust the paper guides for proper alignment.
3. Driver Installation: Install the appropriate Windows driver (32‑bit or 64‑bit) from the manufacturer’s support site. The driver supports both Parallel and USB connections.
4. Optional Networking: If using Ethernet, configure IP settings via the printer’s control panel or a connected PC.
5. Test Print: Run a test page to verify print quality and alignment.

Maintenance Tips for Longevity

• Regular Cleaning: Wipe the print head and platen with a lint‑free cloth to prevent dust buildup.
• Head Replacement: Replace the 24‑pin head after reaching approximately 200 million characters or if print quality degrades.
• Firmware Updates: Periodically check for firmware upgrades that may improve driver compatibility and performance.
• Environmental Controls: Keep the printer in a temperature‑controlled area (20–25 °C) to avoid condensation on internal components.

Conclusion

The OKI Microline 5591eco remains a reliable, high‑speed monochrome dot‑matrix solution for businesses that demand durable, continuous printing of forms and multi‑copy documents. Its combination of robust build quality, extensive connectivity options, and efficient power usage makes it an enduring choice in environments where legacy compatibility and dependable output are paramount.