The HP Color LaserJet 3500 was introduced in Europe in November 2003 and North America in February 2004. With a print speed of 12ppm in both color and monochrome, the host-based 3500s were targeted at the SOHO market and initially priced at $699 (USD).
In October 2004 the 16ppm Color LaserJet 3550 was introduced at a web price of $799. Both the 3500 and 3550 models have duty cycles of 45k.
The 3500 and 3550 models use the same toner cartridge SKUs. Cartridges are chipped and utilize a chemical toner similar to that used by the HP 4600 and 5500 printers. All of Static Control’s replacement HP 3500 components are qualified for use in the 3550 models.