[gis_info] large format printer versus plotter?

[Blan, David]

This past year, we replaced our HP color plotters with a Canon iPF720 and an iPF8000s.  We have been extremely pleased with the quality and speed of the machines.
The iPF720 costs around $4000 and the iPF8000s was around $7500.  See the Canon web page for more specs or e-mail me if you have additional questions.

David Blan
NW Natural
GIS Supervisor
Engineering Services and
Storage Development Dept.
503-226-4211 x4375
________________________________
From: gis_info-bounces at listsmart.osl.state.or.us [mailto:gis_info-bounces at listsmart.osl.state.or.us] On Behalf Of Michele Long
Sent: Friday, December 03, 2010 8:48 AM
To: gis_info at listsmart.osl.state.or.us
Subject: [gis_info] large format printer versus plotter?

I could use some feedback - I have been pushing for a plotter for our office and have now been asked to provide info on the price of a "good one" and all associated software/accessories.  My thoughts were going towards an HP Designjet brand, but not sure which series would suit best.  We would use it mostly for printing maps, signs and occasional posters.  Will not get heavy use (daily) for mapping.  We would use it for graphics that we haven't been able to do on the normal desktop printers.  We only have color on our desktop printers, so no large format color printing right now.  We may make more maps once we get a plotter, but costs are an issue.

Basically - I would like to keep paper and ink costs reasonable.  Is there much choice for map size printers with cost effectiveness on ink and paper?  I know others who have plotters and their ink costs are ridiculous and they go through a lot if both ink and paper.  Is there a printer that can print both roll and single sheet, to save on paper?

Interested in your thoughts/suggestions.

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Michele Long
ODFW North Coast Watershed District
4907 Third St., Tillamook, OR 97141
(503) 842-2741 ext 237
fax (503) 842-8385
Michele.L.Long at state.or.us

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