HP® released the Color LaserJet® 4500 in October 1998. The 4500 led the pack in color laser shipments in both the U.S. and world markets, but was replaced by the Color LaserJet 4550 in November 2000, which offered an improved processor.
The 4500 and 4550 are both based on Canon’s EP-83 engine (C LBP-400, C LBP-460 and LBP-2040, also launched in 1998), which was the first color laser engine developed that eliminated the need to oil the fuser. The LBP-2050 followed in June 2001.
The supplies set for all models consists of seven consumables; the OPC drum unit and four color toner cartridges are the five core replacement items. A fuser kit and transfer kit make up the remaining two supplies. All seven are designed for replacement by the end-user. Cartridge and drum unit SKUs may differ by geographic market.
The non-magnetic color toners are manufactured using a chemical process, and the black toner is magnetic and manufactured through a conventional milling process. The drum unit is chipped, and a new chip is required on remanufactured drum units for correct printer operation.