Using your iPad for cyber-shopping can take some of the pressure off during the holiday season, and can help you find incredible deals. When doing any kind of cyber-shopping, remember to use only trusted, known, and secure sites. Look for a locked padlock or https:// (the “s” and the locked padlock indicate a secure site).
I originally wanted a portable, Bluetooth printer for my iPad, but in the process discovered the HP Desktop 1000 j110a portable printer while browsing on Amazon.com. No, it wasn’t in my original plan to buy this, but I thought it would make a great gift for my son.
Honestly, when I read the features on Amazon, the first thing I saw was “built-in- wireless printing” at the top of the “Features” list, but I didn’t realize the box for this feature (and all of the other features listed) wasn’t checked. So, in a way I was fooled, because I thought I was going to be able to use it with my iPad.
After reading the specs and the price, though, I decided to buy it. The printer is portable and holds 65 sheets of paper, with a 25 sheet output capacity tray. Product Specs: dimensions: 15 X 16.6 X 10.5 inches; 4.4 pounds.
The printer does seem a little lightweight and, yes, the plastic they used to make this printer is thin, but it was designed with the environment and your wallet in mind. The unit is made with 30% recycled plastic; the ink cartridges contain 70% recycled contents.
For Mac owners using the latest OS, you will have to go to HP downloads to get the latest software. The CD install disc will not work for you. (Links are provided below.)
When shipped directly from Amazon.com, the price is, $33.45 + shipping and handling (3-6 business days).
You can get the HP 1000 directly from HP, through Amazon.com, for $29.99 + free shipping and handling. (Look in the middle of the page on Amazon.com to find the same printer – but the price is $29.99.)
It prints in black/white and color, and comes with 2 full-size ink cartridges (most printers come with start-up cartridges). You will need to purchase a USB cable or recycle one you already have. Ok, how do I know all this?
Well, it was meant to be given as a gift, but I had to make an emergency flight to Maryland. When I found out that I could print my boarding passes 24 hours in advance, skip the check-in counter, and go straight to security; I opened the box, set up the printer, downloaded the software from HP, tried it out, and then packed it in my husband’s carry-on luggage, on top of his clothing and toiletries. (I put my laptop in my carry-on briefcase.)
We packed it on top because it is a piece of electronic equipment, and needs to be screened separately at the airport. The printer survived the trip beautifully, and I had my boarding passes printed and ready for the return trip.
It gets mixed reviews – some people love it; some people don’t. For me, it’s perfect. I have to make another emergency flight to Maryland in two weeks, and I’m taking the printer with me.
iPad 2 can be purchased at the Apple Store, Westfarms Mall, Farmington, CT; Best Buy - Enfiled, Simsbury/Avon, Newington, and West Hartford.) Check for availability and if they are open.
Amazon link: http://www.amazon.com/HP-Deskjet-Printer-CH340A-B1H/dp/B003YGZIY0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1323089418&sr=8-1
HP Software Download Link – HP Deskjet j110a – follow the prompts:http://h10025.www1.hp.com/ewfrf/wc/softwareCategory?product=4066377&lc=en&cc=us&dlc=en&lang=en&cc=us
