Canon Pixma MP640 review

PIXMA MP640 SPECIFICATIONS:

• 3-in-1 device: print, scan, copy
• Print speeds: 9.2 ipm in black, 8.1 ipm in color
• Print resolution: up to 9600 x 2400 dpi
• Automatic duplexing
• Paper capacity: 150-sheet rear tray, 150-sheet cassette
• Built-in memory card reader, USB compatible
• 3-inch color LCD, Easy Scroll Wheel
• Five ink system: four dye-based cartridges, one pigment-based black cartridge
• Connectivity: Wireless, Ethernet, or USB
• Energy Star qualified
• 1-year limited warranty (includes InstantExchange)

BUILD AND DESIGN
The Canon PIXMA MP640’s design is very similar to the previously reviewed Pixma MP560 and Pixma MP990; a silver body with a high gloss black wrap around the top of the machine and a matte black wrap around the bottom.  The Canon logo is affixed to the front of the fold-up output tray and the Pixma brand logo is located on top of the scanner lid.

The dimensions for the Pixma MP640 vary depending on how you are using the device.  When not in use, the printer folds up into a decently compact unit measuring approximately 18 x 15 x 7 inches.  

When in use with the rear tray open, the output tray extended, and the control panel flipped up, the Pixma MP640’s dimensions are approximately 18 x 25 x 12 inches.  Factor in the scanner lid when opened and the space needed for the printer is about 18 x 25 x 18 inches.

The hidden control panel is found on top of the scanner lid; flip open the panel to find the 3-inch LCD, Canon’s Easy Scroll Wheel, and eleven quick keys. 

Underneath the control panel, users will find the 48-bit flatbed scanner.  The scanner bed can fit documents up to 8.5 x 11.7 inches.  It offers an optical maximum resolution up to 4800 x 9600 dpi and interpolated maximum resolution up to 19,200 x 19,200 dpi.  Canon also includes easy scan-to features, gutter shadow correction and auto scan mode.

The output tray flips open automatically when printing but can be manually opened when users need access to the inside of the MP640.  The five individual ink cartridges and print head are located on the inside of the Pixma MP640.  Cartridges are easily installed thanks to color coded slots.

The built-in memory card reader can be found to the right of the output tray behind a small door.  The Pixma MP640 can read SD, SDHC, MMC, MMC Plus, CompactFlash, Microdrive, Memory Stick, Memory Stick PRO, Memory Stick Duo, and Memory Stick PRO Duo.  Below the card reader is the PictBridge/USB port.

Like most of the Canon PIXMA line, the Pixma MP640 features two way paper feeding.  The 150-sheet paper cassette is located below the fold out output tray.   The 150-sheet automatic sheet feeder (the rear paper tray) is located on the back of the MP640.

The connectivity ports are also located on the back of the Pixma MP640; to the left you’ll find Ethernet and USB, to the right the power port.