MFDs (multifunction devices) should be an ideal solution for reducing desktop clutter, combining scanning and printing into one device. However, their reputation for poor quality and performance has so far prevented them from becoming essential PC peripherals.

Canon's latest stab at an all-in-one combines a scanner, mono laser "printer, photocopier and fax into a unit measuring just 365x365x242mm.

The charge levelled at MFDs is that they are mediocre at all tasks. The MultiPass L60 managed to output 3ppm (pages per minute) mono - half the manufacturer's quoted speed of 6ppm. When you consider that many mono laser printers can manage 8ppm and faster, the L60 begins to look lethargic. Print quality wasn't bad, though it looked faint and grainy compared with its single-"function rivals. The L60's output speed for photocopying was 3ppm, producing relatively faithful copies. Indeed, we found having this functionality in a small desktop package to be one of its major advantages.

As a scanner, the MultiPass reproduces monochrome images at 600x600dpi (dots per inch). Scan "quality was satisfactory but lacked detail, and with excellent 600x1200dpi colour scanners costing $250 or less, this function also looks redundant.

In its favour, running costs are cheap compared with most mono laser printers. The L60's price tag of $1099 may be steep, but it's more acceptable when you consider the range of functions it combines.

Canon MultiPass L60

Keep in mind that should the L60 break down, you'll be left high and dry without the use of any of its functions.

Price: $1099.

Phone: (02) 9805 2570.

URL: www.canon.com.au.