Hewlett Packard launches three new laser MFDs available exclusively for its PartnerONE dealers

- LaserJet M9059 is a 50ppm, b/w A3 unit, based on existing M9050.
- LaserJet M4349x is a 45ppm, b/w A4 unit, based on existing M4345
- Color LaserJet CM6049f is a 40ppm, color A3 unit, based on existing CM6040f
- All are actually made by Canon

The only difference of the new models, versus the units that they are based on, is that they have toner cartridges that are keyed, so end users have to buy the toners from the HP PartnerONE dealer, and not on-line, or in a superstore.

This appears to be an effort by HP to provide their channel with products that can be used in an MPS engagement. I have not seen pricing for the cartridges, and probably would not be able to disclose the pricing if I did see it, but unless HP is deploying pricing similar to their supplies meter program they probably will not get much traction with these products. Keyed products create logistic issues in mixed fleets--those with the keyed models as well as the orginal modles--and if the units have a short shelf life due to lack of acceptance the vendor and customer have a small group of "orphaned" devices with a special cartridge. Furthermore, the ability to move to compatible cartridges is probably lost.....another fact that probably drove HP to this strategy.