HP has unveiled Version 5.0 of its Universal Print Driver (UPD), which is both a basic driver and a driver management application, eliminating the need for users to have a unique driver for each printer model.

"The HP UPD works with a wide range of HP LaserJet and non-HP printers and multifunction devices," says Cliff Coppinger, HP network strategist/product manager.

The software features HP EasyColor to optimize color printing, HP EasyColor defaults to automatically choose the optimal color treatment, duplex shortcut option and color management policies to decrease paper and ink/toner usage, new functionality for customizing shortcuts, and improved configuration capabilities with Microsoft Active Directory and Citrix.

"A single, feature-rich driver replaces many individual drivers, making it easy to connect to printing devices without downloading separate, product-specific drivers," Coppinger notes.

Use of this product can help an organization simplify its print environment, manage tools easily, reduce paper use, increase productivity by reducing support calls, and reduce deployment time.

HP UPD 5.0 is available in numerous languages, provides management tools, and offers settings for the printers it manages, including diagnostic codes and alerts, such as low-ink warnings.

The software competes with Xerox's Mobile Express Driver, Ricoh's UPD, and Lexmark's UPD.

The driver is available as a free download from www.hp.com/go/UPD.

For more information, go to: www.hp.com