Architecture | Engineering | Construction | Colorado Digital Solutions
In the world of engineering, precision and clarity are non-negotiable when it comes to designing blueprints, creating technical drawings, or producing detailed schematics. To achieve these high standards, engineers rely on plotters, also known as large-format printers, which are specifically designed to handle large, detailed documents with unparalleled accuracy.
Whether you are involved in civil engineering, architecture, or any other field that demands exacting print quality, choosing the right plotter to get the best digital solutions in Colorado can make a significant difference in your work.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best plotters available for engineers, delving into their specifications, price points, recommended toners, and why they stand out in the market.
Specifications:
- Print Resolution: Up to 2400 x 1200 optimized dpi
- Print Speed: 26 seconds per A1/D page
- Maximum Print Size: 36 inches
- Dimensions: 55.2 x 26.9 x 35.3 inches
- Weight: 139 lbs
- Connectivity: USB 2.0, Wi-Fi, Ethernet
MSRP: $3,895
Recommended Toners and Their MSRP:
- HP 728 130-ml Black Ink Cartridge (F9J68A): $69.99
- HP 728 130-ml Cyan Ink Cartridge (F9J63A): $69.99
- HP 728 130-ml Magenta Ink Cartridge (F9J64A): $69.99
- HP 728 130-ml Yellow Ink Cartridge (F9J65A): $69.99
Why It’s Recommended: The HP DesignJet T830 MFP is a versatile multifunction plotter that combines high-quality printing, scanning, and copying capabilities. Its robust build and superior print quality make it an excellent choice for engineers who need to produce precise, large-format documents. The added bonus of Wi-Fi connectivity allows for easy sharing and mobile printing, making it convenient for fieldwork and collaborative projects.
Specifications:
- Print Resolution: Up to 2400 x 1200 dpi
- Print Speed: 3.2 ppm for D-sized prints
- Maximum Print Size: 36 inches
- Dimensions: 55.2 x 38.7 x 46.6 inches
- Weight: 222 lbs
- Connectivity: USB 2.0, Ethernet, Wi-Fi
MSRP: $4,995
Recommended Toners and Their MSRP:
- Canon PFI-706BK Black Ink Cartridge (2250C001): $299.99
- Canon PFI-706C Cyan Ink Cartridge (2359C001): $299.99
- Canon PFI-706M Magenta Ink Cartridge (2360C001): $299.99
- Canon PFI-706Y Yellow Ink Cartridge (2361C001): $299.99
Why It’s Recommended: The Canon imagePROGRAF TX-3000 is known for its exceptional print quality and reliability. It’s particularly well-suited for producing sharp, detailed technical drawings and GIS maps, making it a favorite among civil engineers and architects. The plotter’s advanced air feeding system and sub-ink tank design ensure continuous printing without interruptions, which is crucial for large-scale projects.
Chart: Comparison of Best Plotters for Engineers and Managed Services Benefits
| Plotter Model | Print Resolution | Print Speed | Max Print Size | MSRP | Recommended Toners | Toner MSRP | Managed Print Services (MPS) Benefits | Managed IT Services (MSP) Benefits |
| HP DesignJet T830 MFP | Up to 2400 x 1200 dpi | 26 sec/A1 page | 36 inches | $3,895 | – HP 728 130-ml Black (F9J68A) <br> – HP 728 130-ml Cyan (F9J63A) <br> – HP 728 130-ml Magenta (F9J64A) <br> – HP 728 130-ml Yellow (F9J65A) | $69.99 each | – Continuous monitoring of print device <br> – Automatic toner replenishment <br> – Firmware updates for enhanced functionality | – Network security solutions <br> – Data backup and disaster recovery <br> – Regular system maintenance to prevent downtime |
| Canon imagePROGRAF TX-3000 | Up to 2400 x 1200 dpi | 3.2 ppm (D-size) | 36 inches | $4,995 | – Canon PFI-706BK Black (2250C001) <br> – Canon PFI-706C Cyan (2359C001) <br> – Canon PFI-706M Magenta (2360C001) <br> – Canon PFI-706Y Yellow (2361C001) | $299.99 each | – Optimized print workflows <br> – Centralized print management <br> – Enhanced document security and access control | – Comprehensive IT support <br> – Proactive threat detection and response <br> – Enhanced data security to protect sensitive engineering data |
| Epson SureColor T5170 | Up to 2400 x 1200 dpi | 31 sec/D-size | 36 inches | $2,299 | – Epson T41R420 Black (T41R420) <br> – Epson T41R220 Cyan (T41R220) <br> – Epson T41R320 Magenta (T41R320) <br> – Epson T41R520 Yellow (T41R520) | $109.99 each | – Cost-effective print management <br> – Streamlined supply chain for ink and media <br> – Reduced administrative overhead through automated billing | – System optimization for better performance <br> – Regular IT audits to ensure compliance <br> – Enhanced support for remote work and collaboration tools |
| Kyocera TASKalfa 2420w | Up to 600 dpi | 3.5 ppm (A1) | 36 inches | $9,995 | – Kyocera TK-896K Black (1T02K00NL0) <br> – Kyocera TK-896C Cyan (1T02K0CNL0) <br> – Kyocera TK-896M Magenta (1T02K0BNL0) <br> – Kyocera TK-896Y Yellow (1T02K0ANL0) | $139.99 each | – High-volume print management <br> – Scalable print solutions <br> – Comprehensive device lifecycle management | – Enterprise-level IT infrastructure support <br> – Advanced cybersecurity measures <br> – Custom IT solutions tailored to engineering workflows |
| Xerox VersaLink C8000 | Up to 2400 x 1200 dpi | 45 ppm | 12 x 18 inches | $2,500 | – Xerox 106R03940 Black (106R03940) <br> – Xerox 106R03943 Cyan (106R03943) <br> – Xerox 106R03942 Magenta (106R03942) <br> – Xerox 106R03941 Yellow (106R03941) | $199.99 each | – Centralized print management <br> – Secure print release to prevent unauthorized access <br> – Automatic updates and maintenance for reliability | – Comprehensive IT support services <br> – Secure access management <br> – Continuous IT monitoring to identify and resolve issues proactively |
Specifications:
- Print Resolution: Up to 2400 x 1200 dpi
- Print Speed: 31 seconds per D-size print
- Maximum Print Size: 36 inches
- Dimensions: 50.9 x 22.7 x 34.2 inches
- Weight: 85 lbs
- Connectivity: USB 3.0, Ethernet, Wi-Fi
MSRP: $2,299
Recommended Toners and Their MSRP:
- Epson T41R420 UltraChrome XD2 Black Ink Cartridge (T41R420): $109.99
- Epson T41R220 UltraChrome XD2 Cyan Ink Cartridge (T41R220): $109.99
- Epson T41R320 UltraChrome XD2 Magenta Ink Cartridge (T41R320): $109.99
- Epson T41R520 UltraChrome XD2 Yellow Ink Cartridge (T41R520): $109.99
Why It’s Recommended: The Epson SureColor T5170 is a compact yet powerful plotter, ideal for engineering offices with limited space. It boasts impressive speed and high print resolution, ensuring that your detailed plans and schematics are always crisp and clear. The user-friendly interface and wireless connectivity make it an excellent choice for engineers who need a hassle-free, reliable plotting solution.
Specifications:
- Print Resolution: Up to 600 dpi
- Print Speed: 3.5 pages per minute (A1)
- Maximum Print Size: 36 inches
- Dimensions: 66 x 43 x 58 inches
- Weight: 573 lbs
- Connectivity: USB 2.0, Ethernet
MSRP: $9,995
Recommended Toners and Their MSRP:
- Kyocera TK-896K Black Toner Cartridge (1T02K00NL0): $139.99
- Kyocera TK-896C Cyan Toner Cartridge (1T02K0CNL0): $139.99
- Kyocera TK-896M Magenta Toner Cartridge (1T02K0BNL0): $139.99
- Kyocera TK-896Y Yellow Toner Cartridge (1T02K0ANL0): $139.99
Why It’s Recommended: The Kyocera TASKalfa 2420w is a high-end plotter known for its durability and high-volume printing capabilities. It’s perfect for engineering firms that need to produce large quantities of high-quality prints efficiently. The robust design and advanced functionality, including support for various media types, make it a versatile choice for complex engineering tasks.
Specifications:
- Print Resolution: Up to 2400 x 1200 dpi
- Print Speed: 45 ppm
- Maximum Print Size: 12 x 18 inches
- Dimensions: 25.2 x 26 x 25.5 inches
- Weight: 121 lbs
- Connectivity: USB 3.0, Ethernet, Wi-Fi
MSRP: $2,500
Recommended Toners and Their MSRP:
- Xerox 106R03940 Black Toner Cartridge (106R03940): $199.99
- Xerox 106R03943 Cyan Toner Cartridge (106R03943): $199.99
- Xerox 106R03942 Magenta Toner Cartridge (106R03942): $199.99
- Xerox 106R03941 Yellow Toner Cartridge (106R03941): $199.99
Why It’s Recommended: The Xerox VersaLink C8000 is a versatile color printer that also supports large-format printing, making it suitable for smaller engineering firms or individual engineers who require high-quality output without the need for a dedicated large-format plotter. Its fast print speeds and robust connectivity options ensure that you can quickly produce and share your documents.
The Role of Managed Print and IT Services (MSP) for Engineering Firms
In addition to selecting the right plotter for your engineering needs, it’s crucial to consider the broader context of Managed Print Services (MPS) and Managed IT Services (MSP) as part of your technology strategy. These services offer a holistic approach to managing your printing and IT infrastructure, ensuring that your devices are always running optimally and securely. For engineering firms, this means not only maintaining the reliability and quality of your large-format printers but also protecting sensitive project data from potential cyber threats.
MPS providers can streamline your print environment by monitoring toner levels, managing print queues, and ensuring that your plotters are always up to date with the latest firmware and security patches. Meanwhile, MSPs offer comprehensive IT support, including network security, data backup solutions, and proactive system maintenance, reducing downtime and enhancing overall productivity. By integrating MPS and MSP, engineering firms can achieve a secure, efficient, and reliable workflow, allowing engineers to focus on their core tasks without worrying about technical disruptions or security vulnerabilities.
This integrated approach not only optimizes operational efficiency but also ensures that your sensitive project data remains protected, providing peace of mind and enabling your firm to maintain a competitive edge in a fast-paced industry.
Designing Your Workflow
Choosing the right plotter for your engineering needs depends on various factors, including the size of the documents you typically work with, the volume of printing, and your budget. The plotters listed above offer a range of options to suit different requirements and preferences.
From the multifunction capabilities of the HP DesignJet T830 to the robust high-volume printing of the Kyocera TASKalfa 2420w, each plotter brings something unique to the table. Investing in a quality plotter not only enhances your productivity but also ensures that your technical documents are produced with the precision and clarity that your projects demand.
When making your decision, consider the long-term costs associated with toner and maintenance, as well as the potential for future expansion of your printing needs. Each of the plotters mentioned is equipped with the features necessary to meet the exacting standards of the engineering profession, ensuring that your blueprints and schematics are rendered with the utmost accuracy and detail.
Having a reliable, high-quality plotter can be a game-changer. Evaluate your specific needs, compare the options, and make an informed decision to equip your workspace with the best plotting technology available.
By understanding the capabilities and benefits of these top plotters, you can ensure that your engineering documents are always printed with the highest level of accuracy and professionalism, setting a solid foundation for the success of your projects.
