C1 resolution issues

We have been using a C1 with the T1 server to print our CD covers for 6 months or so. Formerly we used a couple of HP9500 laser printers. The C1 produces a nicer finish than the HP, much more consistent color, and much lower operating cost, so for the most part I am quite satisfied with it.

However, the HP has much higher apparent resolution, despite being a 600 dpi printer compared to the C1's 1200 dpi. The main problem is text reproduction at small font sizes, particularly if the source is a bitmap file.

I attribute the HP's sharper output to the fact that the HP produces more of a continuous tone output compared to the Canon's more obvious dot pattern.

I notice that 1200 dpi and 600 dpi output from the C1 look about the same. Furthermore, when we send a job to the mailbox, the job details indicate 600 dpi, even though we always send at 1200 dpi.

I guess what I'm wondering is whether other C1 owners notice what I'm observing, or is there a problem with my unit? I've tried all the halftone patterns.

 

C1 resolution is 600 dpi not 1200. It is enhanced or interpolated by the rip, but by default it is 600 dpi.I have tried 1200 on the C7000vp by printing resolution finder and it came out different. the C7000vp came out finer.

 

On page 3 of the brochure, Canon states "true 1200 dpi resolution produces razor sharp text and graphics". A bit misleading if it's only 600 dpi.

I forgot to mention that I have some print samples from a local print shop's C1 that looked higher res than mine, from the same pdf file. The only difference in their machine was a Q1 server rather than the T1, and they print from PC rather than Mac.

 

HI. Which print driver are you using? If you are by chance using the PCL 5c it is limited to 600dpi.

 

Good suggestion - I'm pretty sure we have always kept it on the postscript driver setting, but I'll double check tomorrow.