The Canon NX print engine-based printers represented milestones in the mid-range printer segment, offering faster print speeds, workgroup networking and high-volume printing capabilities. At 17 pages per minute (ppm), printers such as HP's LaserJet® IIISi (1991) and 4Si (1993) were the fastest network printers in that category at the time of their introduction. The IIISi and 4Si printers were popular choices for accounting offices, law offices and other businesses with high-volume printing needs.
The NX cartridge was instrumental in starting industry-wide research and development of primary charge roller (PCR) recoating and replacement alternatives. The gray OEM PCR, the second type of PCR used in the NX cartridge, was found to be highly susceptible to wear soon after the OEM cycle and the source of print problems in low humidity conditions. Cartridge failure was frequently experienced with a once-used OEM gray NX PCR. A number of issues surrounding the NX cartridge including the performance of the PCR also started a trend in matched imaging systems and more careful management of cartridge components.