OKI Microline 320 Turbo Printer Review – Legacy Systems & Dot Matrix Printing
Review of the OKI Microline 320 Turbo dot matrix printer: perfect for legacy systems, continuous forms, & reliable multi-part printing. Read the full review.
Introduction
In an era dominated by sleek inkjet and laser printers, the OKI Microline 320 Turbo might seem like a relic of the past. However, this robust dot matrix printer remains a vital component for many businesses and organizations relying on legacy systems, continuous form printing, and fanfold paper. It’s a dependable solution when crisp, high-volume printing on multi-part forms is paramount, offering a specialized functionality that modern printers simply can’s replicate.
The OKI Microline 320 Turbo isn’t about vibrant color or high-resolution images; it’s about unwavering reliability, compatibility with older software, and the ability to produce legally-binding documents on carbon copies. If you’re tasked with maintaining systems that demand these specific capabilities, the Microline 320 Turbo is a proven performer.
Overview
The OKI Microline 320 Turbo is a monochrome dot matrix printer designed for high-volume, multi-part form printing. It boasts a respectable printing speed of 435 characters per minute (CPM) and a substantial 64KB memory, making it capable of handling longer documents. Its beige color and straightforward design reflect its practical, no-frills functionality. While lacking the bells and whistles of contemporary printers, its focus on essential printing tasks and robust build quality make it a dependable choice for businesses needing specific functionality.
This printer’s connectivity options are intentionally limited to USB and parallel ports, ensuring seamless integration with older systems. The inclusion of JetSet software aims to simplify setup and operation, though users familiar with dot matrix printing will likely find the process intuitive. The 320 Turbo is ideal for businesses needing to print invoices, purchase orders, and other multi-part forms where original documents and carbon copies are required.
Features
High-Speed Printing for Volume Needs: The Microline 320 Turbo achieves a printing speed of 435 CPM, allowing it to process large volumes of forms quickly and efficiently. This speed is critical for businesses with high-volume printing requirements.
Broad Compatibility with Legacy Systems: With its USB and parallel port connectivity, the Microline 320 Turbo ensures seamless integration with older computers and software, making it an ideal solution for businesses maintaining legacy systems. This compatibility avoids costly software upgrades or system replacements.
JetSet Software for Simplified Setup: The included JetSet software streamlines the printer’s setup and configuration process, making it accessible to users of varying technical skill levels. The software assists with driver installation and basic printer settings.
Robust 64KB Memory Capacity: The 64KB memory buffer enables the Microline 320 Turbo to handle longer documents without interruption, reducing the risk of printing errors and ensuring a smooth printing process. This is essential for lengthy forms or reports.
Durable Construction for Long-Term Reliability: Built to withstand demanding environments, the Microline 320 Turbo features a robust construction designed for long-term reliability. This reduces downtime and maintenance costs, making it a cost-effective solution.
Benefits
Reduced Downtime and Maintenance Costs: The printer’s robust design and reliable operation minimize downtime and reduce the need for frequent maintenance, saving businesses time and money.
Seamless Integration with Existing Infrastructure: The USB and parallel port connectivity ensures compatibility with existing systems, avoiding costly upgrades or replacements.
Consistent Print Quality on Continuous Forms: The Microline 320 Turbo produces consistent and legally binding print quality on continuous forms, essential for invoicing, purchase orders, and other critical documents.
Increased Productivity with High-Speed Printing: The fast printing speed significantly reduces the time required to complete large printing jobs, improving overall productivity.
Simplified User Experience with Included Software: The JetSet software makes the printer accessible and easy to use, even for those unfamiliar with dot matrix printing.
Usages
Perfect for Business and Financial Institutions: The Microline 320 Turbo is a critical tool for businesses, banks, and financial institutions that require reliable printing of multi-part forms such as invoices, purchase orders, and bank statements.
Ideal for Government Agencies and Legal Departments: Government agencies and legal departments often rely on dot matrix printing for legally binding documents and record-keeping. The Microline 320 Turbo provides the necessary functionality to meet these requirements.
Essential for Manufacturing and Logistics: Manufacturing facilities and logistics companies frequently utilize dot matrix printers for generating shipping labels, packing slips, and other critical documentation.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Reliable printing for legacy systems
- High-speed printing for high volumes
- Durable and long-lasting construction
- Broad compatibility with existing infrastructure
- Cost-effective solution for specific printing needs
Cons
- Limited connectivity options (USB/Parallel only)
- Lower print resolution compared to modern printers
- No color printing capabilities
- Requires replacement ribbons, ongoing cost
FAQs
What types of paper does the Microline 320 Turbo support?: The printer is designed for continuous form paper, fanfold paper, and other types of media commonly used in dot matrix printing.
Does this printer support wireless connectivity?: No, the Microline 320 Turbo utilizes USB and parallel ports for connectivity, ensuring compatibility with older systems.
What is the maximum print resolution of this printer?: The printer offers a maximum print resolution of 240 x 216 dpi, sufficient for producing clear and legible text on continuous forms.
Is toner required for this printer?: No, this is a dot matrix printer and does not use toner. It uses a ribbon that needs periodic replacement.
Product Specifications
| Printer Type | Dot Matrix |
| Print Speed (PPM) | 435 CPM |
| Resolution (DPI) | 240 x 216 dpi |
| Connectivity | USB, Parallel |
| Duplex | Manual |
| Supported Media Sizes | A4 |
| Ink/Toner Type | Print Ribbon |
| Dimensions | Not specified in product details |
| Warranty Type | Limited warranty |
Ratings
| Print Quality (Color & Sharpness) | 3.2 |
| Ink Efficiency / Yield | 2.8 |
| Connectivity & App Integration | 3.0 |
| Print Speed (Pages per Minute) | 4.1 |
| Build Quality & Design | 4.3 |
| Value for Money | 3.9 |
Recommendation
This printer is highly recommended for businesses and organizations maintaining legacy systems requiring continuous form printing.
The OKI Microline 320 Turbo is an excellent choice for those needing a reliable and cost-effective solution for printing legally-binding documents.
Conclusion
The OKI Microline 320 Turbo remains a vital tool for specific printing needs, offering unwavering reliability and compatibility with older systems.
While it may lack the features of modern printers, its focus on essential printing tasks and robust build quality make it a dependable and cost-effective solution for businesses needing to print multi-part forms consistently.
