FinePrint 12.08

Overview

FinePrint is a unique and powerful software that utilizes proprietary techniques to save printer ink, paper, and toner, and reduce printer maintenance effort.

Installation

FinePrint is easy to download and install, with a guided setup process that even the most inexperienced computer user can complete. The software is compatible with the latest versions of Windows (XP, Vista, and 7).

Interface

The FinePrint user interface appears similar to that of any other printer interface, with a few more additional options. Along the top menu bar are several button icons that allow you to adjust settings, zoom in and out, go to the next/previous page, and perform other basic functions. A large page preview is displayed on the right side of the main window, and basic layout options and scheduled tasks (Jobs) are displayed in a tab-based left pane. Overall, the FinePrint interface requires very little input from the user and anyone can become accustomed to it without even referring to the included help file.

Pros

• Universal print preview makes it possible to view an exact copy of what is scheduled to be printed, regardless of which printer you are using (compatible with all known printers and basic Windows apps)

• Offers additional printing options that give the user complete control over the amount of ink and paper used in each task

• Automatically removes blank pages to avoid paper wasting

• Lets you print multiple pages on a single sheet of paper for improved conservation

• Users can record the details of their print jobs in archives that can be referred to at any time

• Customize pages before printing by removing any unwanted images/text that would waste ink and paper space unnecessarily

• Save color ink by instantly converting pages that you're about to print into grayscale

• Lets you easily delete unwanted pages so you don't have to waste paper on content that you don't need to print

• Lets you print electronic letterheads

• Full-screen mode lets you view the user interface and print previews in large-scale

• Version 7 includes improved zooming/scrolling functionality that lets you scroll through multiple pages while zoomed in

• Easily add text annotations and bitmap annotations

• Integrated snapshot utility lets you quickly copy/paste FinePrint material into photo editors, browsers, documents, and other applications

• Lets you add components to a printable document, including custom graphics, headers, footers, watermarks, signatures, initials, and other text

• After you've edited a print project you can export in various image file formats, including BMP, JPEG, and TIF

• Autohide status mode makes it easy to hide the left pane to make more room for the print preview

Cons

• The user interface is somewhat primitive and visually unappealing. However, it performs its job well.

Alternatives

There are several applications that are similar to FinePrint, including Green Cloud Printer, GreenPrint, priPrinter, PretonSaver, and iPrint.

Conclusion

If you'd like to save a large percentage of the amount of money you spend on printer ink and paper throughout the year, as well as the time you spend performing printer maintenance, FinePrint is a must-have utility. This software is an excellent value because the paid version literally pays for itself when considering the amount of money you save in ink cartridges and paper alone.