The Sony UP-CX1 is a high speed photo printer that offers high quality and at the same time a small form factor. As technology the printer uses dye sublimation. Two technologies are generally used for photo printers, dye-sublimation or inkjet. Lately manufacturers are also working on a technology with no ink for instant photo printing, but Zink printers are still few and far between and the technology is being perfected. UP CX1 mainly targets small businesses and was also created for being used to print at events.

What makes dye-sublimation different (and in some ways better) than inkjet is that it features a roll of transparent film with solid dyes embedded in it, corresponding to the four colors generally used in printing, cyan, magenta and black. As the print head passes over this film, it heats up and causes the ink to vaporize. The ink is then transferred onto the glossy surface of the paper and turns into solid.

With dye-sublimation the prints are long-lasting and look professional. Most printers also apply an extra transparent coat at the finish to serve as a protective layer. A significant difference between inkjet and dye-sublimation is that the latter does not lay down ink in small separate dots and makes photographs look much more realistic.

The UP-CX1 makes use of roll printing which also allows higher volume printing. It can produce photos of 3.5 by 5 inch, 4 by 6 inch, 5 by 7 inch or 4 by 8 inch. These Sony UP CX1 photo printers also offer very high printing speeds. A 4 by 8 inch print for example will take just about 21 seconds to produce which is significantly faster than most competing devices.

As soon as you receive the printer you’ll also find in the box a manual, paper holder, the paper tray, an AC Power Cord, Cleaning Cartridge, a CD-ROM with drivers and instructions in pdf format and the warranty which is 1 year for the actual printer and 90 days for the thermal head. Sony’s UP CX1 photo printers are compatible with both PC and Macintosh and as previously mentioned come with the printer driver software.

The drivers can also be found online on Sony’s website. Because Sony managed to keep the size relatively small, this printer will fit just about anywhere. Maintaining the UP CX1 is very simple. The paper is even rolled with the printing surface inside so when you decide to replace it or adjust it you won’t leave finger prints or dust on the printing area.

In case you’re worried about theft, this photo printer comes with a security slot built in. You’ll simply have to purchase a security cable that you can easily find on the market to make sure your printer is safe. If you have a small business and are looking for a fast and efficient printer to produce good quality photographs, you could consider the Sony UP CX1 photo printers that now retail for somewhere under $800.

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