The popular HP LaserJet 5100 series laser printers by Hewlett-Packard (HP) are discontinued but here are some facts to consider if you are thinking about purchasing a refurbished model from the series:

1. These user-friendly printers can be readily customized to conform to the needs of users. They can also be used as standalones or in workgroup networks.

2. HP LaserJet 5100 Series printers can produce wide format print products up to A3 size at an affordable price.

3. This printer line supports a wide variety of media, including most papers, transparencies, labels, envelopes and card stock.

The line includes the HP 5100 basic printer, built for speedy grayscale or color printing with up to 1200 by 1200 resolution. The HP LaserJet 5100tn printers and the HP LaserJet 5100dtn printers offer more options and capacity. If you were thinking of buying a 5100, many parts can still be found at HP's website. Other online discounters sell refurbished HP LaserJet 5100 Series printers at significantly lower prices than they sold for prior to being discontinued.

HP still sells maintenance kits, cartidges and other supplies for the Hewlett-Packard LaserJet 5100 Series printers. Prices for refurbished machines from online discounters can run from $500 to around $2,000. A one-year limited warranty is usually included in the price.

Installing your own maintenance kit in a 5100 printer is not difficult. The kit contains a fully refurbished fuser unit, a new transfer roller and feed/ separation rollers. HP also offers user manuals for those who need them.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find the best price for a HP LaserJet 5100 series printer online, for refurbished models

Check HP first, then other discounters for good deals on refurbished printers.

I recommend: HP has an online store that sells parts for HP LaserJet 5100 Series printers. Also check online sites such as Buy Printers or PrinterStop, that offer discounted prices for HP LaserJet 5100 Series printers.

Buy all the parts you may need for HP LaserJet 5100 series printers at online stores

Pick up cables, hard drives, paper and trays in multiples for this discontinued printer line.

I recommend: First, see if you can find the parts and supplies you need through the HP shopping site. They carry a wide selection of parts for the HP 5100 printer series. You'll also want to compare prices at online stores such as Super Warehouse. Buy several of each part you anticipate needing. The supply appears good right now, but it will probably diminish quickly.

Compare prices, reviews and user opinions for more information about LaserJet 5100 printers

Get information on the 5100 printer series from users at sites that specialize in comparisons and reviews.

I recommend: Take a look at CNET's Shopper.com website. Find candid reviews and price comparisons for the model you want. Another great site for reviews is Epinions. You'll want to find out why other users love it (or not so much). If you think that the HP Laserjet 5100tn may be the right printer for your small but growing business, you may find a review that helps you decide to make the purchase.

It's a buyer's market for HP LaserJet 5100 Series laser printer cartridges

Remember to shop around to get the best deal. The Internet cartridge and toner suppliers usually offer free shipping on their products. Compare several online sources before you decide.

I recommend: You'll find a lot of laser toner sources, so do compare before you buy. One of the best is All Laser Service. Another good source, with free laser toner shipping and deep discounts, is InkSell.com.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If your carbon footprint concerns you, you'll be happy to know that HP is involved in the responsible recycling of computers, including the HP LaserJet 5100 Series.