Most computer users have heard of Epson, the printer manufacturer that set the standard for dot matrix printing. What many people don't know is that Epson's history spans more than 100 years and includes the invention of the world's first quartz watch. In 1964, Epson created printing timers for the Tokyo Olympics. Epson (www.epson.com) competes for the lion's share of the computer printer market with Hewlett-Packard (www.hp.com). You can visit either Web site for an update on current printer technology. For buyer's guidelines, look in recent editions of computer magazines. On the Web, connect to www.computershopper.com and follow the links for Printers, or connect to www.cnet.com and search for "printer reviews."

WinList 1999   You can find more reviews of printers and comparative charts at this section of the Windows magazine Web site. The charts feature products that Windows magazine considers to be the best, based on their reviews of hundreds of products. You'll find prices, why Windows thinks it's a best product, and vendor contact information. Scroll down to the hardware section, and click "Printers."