Andrew Hand

For small businesses, especially print shops, keeping track of finances can be particularly challenging. Owners often juggle multiple roles, from managing day-to-day operations to handling customer service and marketing. Disorganised records, missed invoices, and inaccurate financial tracking can lead to cash flow problems and hinder business growth.

With limited resources, staying on top of financials can become overwhelming.  

With ONYX Align’s latest update, there’s a clear path to streamlined and efficient financial management. Introducing the new QuickBooks® Online integration - a revolutionary feature for print shops looking to simplify their financial operations. 

How Does it Work?  

This new feature allows ONYX Align to connect directly to QuickBooks, an online accounting software that assists in payroll, payments, and more. 

You can either create a new QuickBooks account to connect to your Align or use a pre-existing QuickBooks account. Either way, this new feature on Align allows you to establish real-time synchronisation between the two accounts to manage estimates, invoices, payments, customers, products, tax rates, payment methods, and payment terms. 

Effortless Financial Management 

Once you connect your accounts, you can enter any of your financial data into either ONYX Align or QuickBooks, and both accounts will automatically update with the information you input. This makes your financial management effortless and organised, eliminating the need for manual updates and reducing the risk of errors. 

Key Benefits of QuickBooks® Online Integration 

Direct Connectivity 

Establish a seamless link between your ONYX Align and QuickBooks Online accounts for streamlined operations. This direct connection ensures that your financial data is always up-to-date and accurate, providing a clear picture of your print shop’s financial health. 

Live Synchronisation 

Enjoy real-time updates of customer accounts, jobs, tax rates, payment terms, and methods. With live synchronisation, you can be confident that your financial records are always current, no matter where you enter the data. 

Estimate and Invoice Automation 

Experience the convenience of automatic creation and real-time status updates of estimates and invoices within QuickBooks Online, all issued directly from ONYX Align. This automation reduces the time spent on administrative tasks, allowing you to focus more on growing your business. 

Automated Payment Tracking 

Maintain up-to-date records with live synchronisation of all payment activities and invoices, enhancing financial tracking and reporting. This feature ensures that you never miss a payment and always have an accurate view of your financials. 

The ONYX Align team is excited to share this seamless integration with QuickBooks Online. This new feature ensures that your print shop has optimised and streamlined operations within your financial management. Say goodbye to the chaos of disorganized records and hello to clarity and efficiency. 

Ready to transform your print shop’s financial management?

To try ONYX Align today and experience the benefits of seamless QuickBooks integration contact PSW Paper & Print for an online demonstration.

Onyx Graphics Inc. is excited to introduce ONYX 24, the latest in its line of RIP (Raster Image Processor) software, designed to revolutionise wide format print workflows. This new version boasts intuitive tools that automate processes and ensure efficient colour management, promising to enhance productivity across the board.

In today’s fast-paced print industry, businesses are increasingly reliant on streamlined workflows to meet growing demands. ONYX 24 addresses these challenges head-on with cutting-edge automation controls that minimise manual intervention, accelerate production timelines, and significantly reduce potential errors. This means smoother operations and more consistent output quality, essential for maintaining competitiveness in the market.

Understanding RIP Software

RIP software is pivotal for transforming digital images into high-resolution prints. It optimises images by adjusting colour balance, brightness, and contrast before translating them into a format compatible with the printer. This software is indispensable for printing companies and businesses utilising wide format printers, ensuring that large-scale prints retain their intended quality and clarity.

Why Upgrade to ONYX 24?

ONYX 24 is tailored to meet the evolving needs of modern print environments. It’s not just about speed and efficiency; it’s also about usability and sustainability. Key features of ONYX 24 include:

• Multilayer Printing: Seamlessly stack and adjust multiple images for applications like posters, fine art, and signage, allowing for creative flexibility and precise control.
• Named Colour Replacement: Maintain a library of brand-specific colours to ensure consistency across all prints. This feature is invaluable for marketing materials, package designs, and corporate branding efforts. Save colours and settings from images as filters and create stunning multi-layer prints with accurate previews using enhanced spot layer generation.
• Label Placement: Easily add labels above, below, or on images, and place data and QR codes anywhere. This feature is designed to reduce mistakes with artist-friendly options.
• Nest Preview and UI Enhancements: Customise and zoom in on the nest preview dialog box to easily visualise and choose specific layers before printing.
• Nix Spectro 2/L Colour Device: Enhance color accuracy with the Nix Spectrophotometer, a compact device that connects via Bluetooth. It offers a range of colour profiles and references, keeping your prints up to date with the latest industry standards.
• Archive: Safeguard your data with ONYX Archives. Securely store and access previous job and client files, preventing data loss with guaranteed access.
• Best Fit and Allow Rotation 2.0: The new algorithm optimises image placement for all resolutions, reducing media waste while ensuring quality and saving money.
• Fotoba Enhancements: Improved cutting workflow includes vertical line notch placement and barcode offsets, perfecting print details before cutting.
• New Mimaki XY Slitter Placement: Connect to ONYX 24 for flexible print-and-cut options, with compatibility for cutter marks on other printers.
• Flood Fill Behind Marks: Improve mark visibility by flooding the area around images with a customisable spot colour on dark, transparent or reflective media, ideal for all cutter types. 
• Background Colour Under Marks: use any ink colour to create a footprint underneath each mark specific to your cutter, optimising mark visibility while also saving ink and space.

ONYX recognises the critical role of reliable RIP software in achieving superior print results. ONYX 24 seamlessly integrates into existing workflows, providing effortless automation and precise colour management tools that empower users to deliver exceptional prints consistently.

As Onyx Graphics prepares for the launch of ONYX 24, we invite you to stay tuned for updates as we discover how these advanced features can transform your printing experience, making it simpler, faster, and more sustainable than ever before.

Diversifying into vehicle wrapping can be a lucrative decision for growing print businesses, no matter where you’re at in your large format journey. Recent advances in print technology have made wrapping easier than ever before. With durable water-based inks, intelligent media and, more precise large-format printers all available, there’s never been a better time to get involved.

Market growth

Vehicle wrapping is seeing an especially sharp rise, with the automotive wrap film market expected to grow 22.4% from 2021 to 2028. ¹ The broader signage industry also remains resilient, as it’s a cost-effective solution for almost any business sector. This is all thanks to wider growth in the online and delivery sectors: E-Commerce is expected to grow by 16% in 2022, ² and this means more demand for branded vehicles on the road. With 69% of customers finding out-of-home advertising more trustworthy than digital advertising, ³ it’s time to take advantage of these new opportunities and get results.

To get you up to speed with the basics including materials, technologies, and practical applications we’ve pulled together some of the most useful hints and tips into our short, handy guide.

Tip 1: Select the right media for the job

We’re going to focus on wrapping films in this section, as it’s a durable solution for vehicle wraps, but these principles apply to all media types. Cast vinyls are likely your go-to substrate for car wraps: they’re easy to contour, stretch, and cut, but this flexibility comes at a higher cost. If you’re printing to flatter signage surfaces and want to save some money, calendared vinyl is the way to go.

When there are so many options, you need a versatile print solution that can keep up. HP Latex is fully compatible with substrates from leading brands such as 3M and Avery Dennison. With HP, you can find a solution that fits your application needs and current equipment. These can all be found on HP Media Solutions Locator, giving you access to perfect media for your printer or application. Don’t forget to consider warranties for peace of mind. HP Latex printers are eligible for six year 3M MCS and Avery ICS warranties⁴ for vehicle graphics–helping you print with confidence.

Tip 2: Measure and measure again

A top tip for ensuring a successful sign or vehicle wrap, is ensuring that you have the measurements, images, and specifics of the surface, item, building, or vehicle you are designing for. For vehicles, especially for full wraps, you’ll need the latest vehicle templates, which you can find online. This will ensure your design fits properly, without distortion or slicing the image into pieces.

Tip 3: Design with the end-installation in mind

Less is sometimes more. The human eye can take in seven items at a time, so when designing it’s important not to try and pack in too much information.⁵ Equally, colour and font can help get your message across–but don’t use too many.

For signage, perspective and distance is key. Choose your lettering size carefully to optimise visibility according to the reading distance. As a rule of thumb, for every 3 meters of viewing distance away from your sign, you should increase the letter height by 2.5 centimeters. ⁶ HP Latex helps you print sharp images and text for easier eligibility. With a resolution of up to 1,200 DPI, ⁷ you can print clear text all the way down to 4-point font sizes.

Tip 4: Choose white ink–for prints that pop!

Printing with white ink can drive up your gross margins by up to 30% by adding depth and vibrance to your images–especially on transparent and coloured substrates.⁸ It can also make previously challenging (or even impossible) projects easier, saving time on additional processes and materials.

HP Latex White Ink gives you all the benefits of white without the complexity. HP Latex printers with white ink, such as the HP Latex 700W, 800W, or HP Latex R-series, feature automatic recirculation to prevent clogging. Additionally, they’re built with an offline rotation chamber for white printhead storage, to minimise waste between white ink jobs. 

Tip 5: Select the right print profile

Let’s say you have the design ready, and you’ve chosen the ideal material for the task. Next, it’s important to deliver a sharp, high-quality image for your sign or vehicle wrap. HP offers a wide range of tested, approved and certified ICC print profiles for HP Latex printers. These profiles give your machine specific instructions on how much ink to lay down for the optimum result. This ensures images are not subject to colour shifts, over-saturation, insufficient ink coverage, edge curling or, drying problems.

A lot of print shops don’t follow this important step and use one generic profile for all their media, resulting in images that appear dull or just not quite right. So, by making sure to select the right print profile, you’ll definitely win on quality.
 
Since you’ll most likely laminate your vehicle wrapping prints, remember to disable the overcoat when selecting your profile.
 
Don’t forget–the latest generation of HP Latex also gives you a 10% higher colour gamut, giving you vibrant and accurate colors on any substrate.⁹

Tip 6: Move into lamination

As your vinyl or film will be exposed to the elements, you need to select one that’s suitable for lamination to prevent scratches or water from dislodging it from the surface.

Tip 7: Eliminate the need to de-gas

By choosing HP Latex technology, you can remove the need to de-gas your vinyl prints before you install them. HP Latex prints are dry straight from the printer, ready to be laminated or installed immediately after leaving the print tray. This cuts out an entire step from your vinyl printing workflow, saving you time, and freeing up your resources for other tasks. A great way to boost your productivity and improve your bottom line.

Tip 8: Start your installation squeaky clean

The most time-consuming part of most signage or vehicle wrap installations is the preparation stage. For new signage installations, this may involve removing old graphics and adhesive, then washing with water and detergent to ensure a grease-free dry surface. When preparing for a vehicle wrap it’s essential to clean every inch of the surface as well as under trims and cracks to make sure they are 100% dirt-free. You should use a suitable solution to remove any wax, before wiping the vehicle with alcohol to remove any residue. All cleaning must be completed the day before to ensure the vehicle is completely dry before installation. Understandably this is often the least preferred part of wrapping a car and is sometimes neglected, but this is at the peril of long-term wrap durability as the slightest dirt left behind could result in the vinyl’s adhesive failing. So, to be sure of success, make sure your vehicle is always squeaky clean.

Tip 9: Apply graphics with ease

The installation of a car wrap undoubtedly requires skill and practice. But the real key to success is post-heating. After the wrap is installed, you should apply a heat gun to the vinyl at 85-95 degrees Celsius, especially where there are deep recesses or contours. This will ensure that the vinyl will retain its memory and remove the risk of it ‘popping’ out.

If you are wrapping in colder weather, keep the car inside until the next day. This will allow the vehicle and vinyl to cool down gradually to minimize the risk of lifting.
 
With the HP Latex 700 and 800 printers, you can achieve 30% better adhesion to laminate, 10 making it easier than ever to get smooth, long-lasting fits. What’s more, HP Latex Inks are very flexible. Discover ink elongations up to 30% without losing quality.¹¹

What are you waiting for?

Signage and car wrapping undoubtedly offer a range of exciting possibilities for entrepreneurial print businesses to explore. There are certainly some tricks of the trade to learn upfront, but once proficient, you’ll be able to offer a wide portfolio of services that will ensure your customers will never need to go elsewhere.
 
Remember, you’re not alone on the journey. Printer manufacturers and media vendors are always on hand to help, and you’ll find online tutorials and videos to help with any questions along the way.

Footnotes
 

1.      Grand View Research, Automotive Wrap Films Market Size Report 2021-2028, https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/automotive-wrap-film-market
 
2.      Insider Intelligence, Ecommerce Industry Statistics, https://www.insiderintelligence.com/insights/ecommerce-industry-statistics/
 
3.      Statista, 2016 https://www.statista.com/topics/5771/out-of-home-advertising-uk/#topicHeader__wrapper
 
4.      Warranty coverage varies by region, please see graphics.averydennison.com and 3Mgraphics.com for information about what is offered in your country. Some warranty limitations may apply.
 
5.      Simply Psychology, Short-Term Memory: Facts, Types, Duration, and Capacity, https://www.simplypsychology.org/short-term-memory.html
 
6.      Signs.com, Signage 101 – Letter Height Visibility, https://www.signs.com/blog/signage-101-letter-height-visibility/.
 
7.      HP Latex 800 print resolution: up to 1,200 DPI. See the spec sheet for more info: https://h20195.www2.hp.com/v2/GetDocument.aspx?docname=c06990640
 
8.      Based on research conducted by Keypoint Intelligence July 2020 and commissioned by HP, across over 100 print service providers across the U.S., Europe, and India
 
9.      On HP Latex 700 and 800 printers, when compared with same ink density in HP Latex 365/5x0 printers. HP Latex 700/800 printers provide lower color distance to some Pantone* (average visual colour distance 1.99 dE vs 3.34dE): Blue (Pantone 289C): 1.3dE vs 3dE, Red (Pantone 201C): 0.49dE vs 3.8dE, Orange (Pantone 153C): 1.6dE vs 3dE. *Measured Xrite i1Pro 2, dE calculated based on the CIEDE2000 standard L500 (10p: 151 sqft/h 110% saturation) vs. L700/800 (8p: 183-215 sqft/h 120% saturation)
 
10.   Compared to HP Latex 365/5x0 series printers.
 
11.   HP Latex 365/5x0 and 700/800 Printers inks show similar ink flexibility performance. We can support ink elongations up to 30% (2dE criteria). In case of HP Latex 700/800 printers, white ink has similar flexibility as the other colours.

Technical documents are a cornerstone of any architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) office. Ask any designer, architect or engineer: they facilitate collaboration with stakeholders located near and far — from concept design stage through to the completed construction project.

When looking for the right architectural printer, one that doesn’t meet specific requirements can lead to many complications. With tenders, presentations, and deadlines hinging on smooth project flows, it is imperative that you get the right printer best suited to the needs of your practice. If you have ever received an internal email with instructions not to send any jobs to the printer because a tender is due, then you understand what we are trying to say.

So, what should you look for?

In short, the right printer can help you:

• Streamline workflow
• Enable collaboration across departments
• Support a more agile work culture

Time is money

The golden rule is to never waste any time. The faster the print job, more time can be spent on core activities. Two areas to look out for, whatever architectural printer you choose, are:

• The time the printer takes to warm up from standby mode to begin printing.
• The time it takes to complete the first and subsequent prints, known as “throughput time”.

Speed is often listed in terms of images per minute (IPM) and pages per minute (PPM). For large format printers, PPM is typically given in terms of A1 sheets, as opposed to A4/letter sheets in standard printers.

Up to 0.1% line accuracy precision

For architectural printers, every little detail matters. They are designed to produce highly accurate drawings, and precision measurements are generally measured in two ways. Line accuracy is given in “ per cent”, denoting the margin of placement error that a printer allows. This refers to the distance between the printed line and the line’s position on the original file. The smaller the figure, the higher the accuracy.

Guaranteed minimum line width is given in millimetres and describes the lightest line weight a printer is capable of representing. Similarly, the lower the figure, the higher the accuracy, meaning that even very fine line weights will be preserved.

Depending on the type of technical drawing, the line weight (better known as pen width) is assigned to the graphical elements in CAD and needs to be consistent with all technical drawings produced.

Compatible with all modelling software

Imagine making several rounds of changes to the 3D model in preparation for a tender submission. When reviewing the prints, you discover that several layers were not printed as intended, because the printer driver, or the printer, is not compatible with your 3D application. With the number of CAD platforms used, this scenario is very plausible.
 
While some CAD platforms are widely used within the AEC industry, there is none that can meet every requirement or purpose. Accordingly, not all of these will be compatible with your chosen large format printer.

Makes work much easier

Ever struggled to locate the ink cartridge ports in your architectural printer? Had difficulties with sending your print jobs to the printer? Frustrated with collecting prints off the floor? The good news is that modern large format printers enable workflow efficiency to be improved.

For instance, easy paper and ink loading, as well as neat stacking and collation of completed prints all help to save time, contributing to a smoother process.

Always depend on hard copy

No project is safe from delays. There are multiple reasons for downtime, from remoteness or inaccessibility of field sites, or sudden bad weather. Connectivity in such places may be fair at the best of times, but it can disappear in a second. In such situations, hard copy is always reliable and dependable.

Today, large format printers are more cost-effective than ever, producing documents with higher resolution and colour fidelity. The right ones can help you do more than you can imagine.

If you need to print high-quality, large-scale posters or banners, you likely understand the importance of selecting the best poster printer to complete the job. Specifically, what you'll want is a top-end plotter printer that can optimise quality and detail with each printout. However, with so many options available, you might not know which printer will work best for you.

To help you find the right solution, we've compiled a list of some of the top poster printers on the market today. We've carefully examined their features, customer reviews, and cost to determine which equipment is best for large-format poster printing in 2024. We hope our insights will help you make the best selection to provide you with consistently great quality.

2024 large format printing trends to look out for

When shopping for a large-format plotter printer, some trends in this industry are worth noting.

In addition to an industrial poster printer machine, you may have access to certain benefits that facilitate a safe work environment due to the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Amid the pandemic, brands like HP and others, have offered extended warranties and remote customer support while promoting various work-from-home initiatives.

Check to see if your large-format poster printing equipment manufacturer offers these benefits as you shop for the perfect solution.

What to consider when buying a plotter for large-format poster printing

When choosing a plotter printer for large-format poster printing, consider the following factors:

a) Printing speed

You'll want to find a highly-efficient industrial poster printer machine to save you more time. Manufacturers typically detail the estimated speed of their printers to give you a good sense of their efficiency.

b) Resolution quality

Consider the resolution quality you need for your posters and other print jobs. You can find large format poster printers with resolutions as high as 2880 x 1440 dots per inch (dpi), and many can print a wide range of colours.

c) Print-size capacity

The printer size will also depend on the size of your projects. Choose a plotter printer that can handle the intended print size. But also consider your space requirements and how they may affect the placement of the printer.

d) Type of ink used

Decide whether you want a poster printer machine that uses water-based or solvent-based inks. Water-solvent inks tend to be more costly and are ideal for indoor applications. Meanwhile, you might want solvent-based ink printers to save money and withstand exposure to outdoor elements. Also, dye inks offer bright picture quality but don't hold up well in sunlight while pigment-based inks often withstand outdoor exposure with the downside of increased dullness.

e) The cost

Another key factor is the cost of the printer, including the initial purchase and maintenance. Set a budget for your printer, and don't buy the cheapest printer you find, as higher initial costs may translate to lower ongoing expenses due to reduced maintenance.

5 best poster printers for large-format printing in 2024

The following are some of the top plotter printers for large-format poster printing available today:

1. HP DesignJet Studio 24-in Printer

Key features:

• A conveniently compact, high-quality design
• User-friendly touchscreen interface
• Fast print speeds

Printer overview:
This inkjet printer from HP is ideal for use in many work and home environments as a convenient, compact printer. You can use it for large-format poster printing in various paper sizes. It also features an easy-to-use touchscreen interface.

2. HP DesignJet T850 36-in Printer

Key features:

• Print multi-size prints without manually changing from roll to sheets
• Vivid colours and pigment-based ink
• Avoid distractions with fewer ink interventions thanks to 130/300 ml cartridges

Printer overview:
The HP DesignJet T850 printer makes printing in all sizes a hassle-free and effortless experience. Print half-size to D size jobs without having to manually change from roll to sheets. Get high-quality prints with vivid colours, fine-line quality, and excellent small-letter clarity to make any poster stand out. The pigment-based HP Flex Tech Inks are resistant to smudges and highlighter bleed and can withstand exposure to outdoor elements.

3. HP DesignJet T650 36-in Printer

Key features:

• Compatible with sheets and rolls
• Efficient print speeds
• The smallest printer with a built-in stand

Printer overview:
This 36-inch plotter prints paper sizes up to A1 and has a top print speed of 25 seconds for large documents. It uses dye inks and includes a gigabyte of memory to handle large projects. It's ideal for printing everything from posters and renders to technical drawings.

4. HP DesignJet Z9+ 44-in PostScript® Photo Printer

Key features:

• Fast printer speed
• Vibrant colours and rich detail
• Highly secure connection

Printer overview:
If you need a large printer for large-format poster printing, consider this HP DesignJet printer. This particular model can handle print jobs of up to 44 inches and includes a 500 GB hard drive and a touchscreen display. The results are sharp in detail and of superior quality.

5. HP DesignJet T230 24-in Printer

Key features:

• Automatic paper switching
• Compact size
• Ease of use

Printer overview:
As the smallest large-format printers from HP, the 200 Series DesignJet models feature a compact design that makes them easy to move and meet tight space requirements. You can use it to print A1 to A4 paper sizes or a roll up to 24 inches. You can also print multiple jobs remotely via an app on your smartphone.

Reach out to HP to discuss your plotter printer needs

Searching for the perfect poster printers for large-format printing? HP has you covered with a wide range of top-quality options.

Large-format printers have become an essential part of the photography industry. Many professionals today rely on these printers because they contribute to the modern photo printing process. They're also widely available and accessible, allowing photographers to easily convert digital images into high-quality, large-scale prints.

The necessity for large-format printing in the photography industry makes it crucial for photographers to purchase the right large-format photo printer to meet their unique requirements. However, with so many models on the market, it can be difficult to make the right selection based on factors like features and cost.

In this article, you'll learn about the various applications of large-format printers in the field of photography and how to find the best large-format printer for photographers. Specifically, we'll list three large-format printers that we consider to be the most reliable in this industry. Photographers can consistently produce professional-grade prints using top-performing functions with the right printer.

The Role of Large Format Printing in Photography

Large-format printing is essential for photographers because of the unique benefits it offers. It allows them to showcase their work on a grand scale, with every detail crisp and visible. The best printers for photographers are the ones that can handle the demands of large-format output without compromising on the fine details that are crucial in photographic work.

The need for high-quality prints in photography
Photographers need prints that offer the best quality through reliable, high-resolution printing processes. A large-format photo printer can print images in some of the highest achievable resolutions with accurate colours to give photographers top-quality prints with every project.

How large-format printers help with achieving professional-grade prints
The best large-format printer for photographers will provide professional-grade images while eliminating the need to outsource printing. With the right investment, you can own a high-quality printer that helps you repeatedly produce superior images in larger sizes.

Top factors to consider when selecting a Large Format Printer for photo printing

When looking for the best large-format photo printer, there are certain key factors to consider, such as:

a) Capacity to scale an image and print in high resolution

One of the main factors to look for in an ideal large-format photo printer is the ability for you to scale images as needed. Many large-format printers today can print sizes of around 13 inches or wider, with some capable of printing billboard-sized images.  In addition to scalability, look for a printer that can print in the highest resolution to ensure consistently great image quality with each print.

b) The colour gamut and print accuracy

You should also seek a large-format photo printer that has the right colour options to accurately print each image. For example, you might want prints with a high level of accuracy when printing the colour yellow, in which case you would want a printer with a variety of reds and greens that can mix to form a range of yellows.

c) Type of ink technology used

The type of ink technology your printer uses could also factor into your decision. For instance, the best large-format printer for photographers today uses inkjet technology that provides great results and peak performance with every project.

d) Connectivity options and paper media compatibility

Your printer should also be able to connect with computers, smartphones, and other devices to allow for convenient printing within your existing tech setup. Additionally, the ideal large-format photo printer should be able to print the specific image format you want to use in photo-editing and printing software.

e) Workflow integration with common photography software

The best large-format printer for photographers will also work with your photography software to allow for seamless workflows. This software could include everything from Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom to Pixlr, Luminar, and other popular types of software.

What are the best large-format printers for photographers?

When you're searching for the best large-format photo printer for you, here are our top picks based on the options and quality they offer:

1. HP DesignJet Z Series

The HP DesignJet Z Series printers are among the most dependable HP large-format photo printers available, with multiple options in this line to give you what you need for each print job.

Key features:

• Expansive ink pigment systems of up to 9 pigments
• HP’s dual-drop technology produces a combination of large drop sizes for robust area fills at fast speeds
• Achieve smooth colour transitions with HP Pixel Control
• Large 300-ml ink cartridges
• Professional photo print quality
• Automatic roll feeds
• Touchscreen displays
• Wireless printing option available via HP Click and HP Smart app for iOS and Android

Main advantages to photographers:
Depending on your needs, you can choose from multiple printers in the Z Series that can meet your needs, each with different specs that can help you meet your specific requirements as a photographer. These printers are particularly helpful in producing top-quality professional-grade prints.

2. HP DesignJet T850/T950

Another great option on the list of the best large-format printers for photographers is the HP DesignJet T850/T950 plotter series, which offer all sorts of benefits for photographers.

Key features:

• 2,400 x 1,200 dpi for superior resolution
• Prints multi-size prints from half size to D size without having to manually change from roll to sheets
• One of the most compact plotters available in the industry
• Many printing options available, including Ethernet, Wi-Fi, USB, and HP Click

Main advantages to photographers:
This large-format photo printer is ideal for printing all types of photos with professional-level quality, along with architect and engineering drawings, and many other projects. It's easy to use and efficient, with excellent printing capabilities that make it ideal for many photography projects.

3. HP DesignJet Studio

The HP DesignJet Studio is a popular large-format photo printer that's available in either 24" or 36" models.

Key features:

• Fast print speed up to 26 sec/page on D
• 1 GB of internal memory
• First net carbon-neutral HP DesignJet plotter¹
• Aesthetically pleasing wood or steel finish

Main advantages to photographers:
This plotter printer is easy to use and highly accessible, with the ability to print high-quality photos from virtually anywhere with the HP Smart app. It can also print very efficiently, depending on the level of quality of your print. Additionally, it's easy to set up and allows for simple control. That's why it features on many lists of the best large-format printer for photographers.

Reach out to HP to meet your large-format photography printer needs

When you're searching for the best-large format printer for photographers, HP’s large-format photo printers can give you everything you need. When you turn to us, you'll be able to choose from a range of reliable large-format printers and plotters based on your unique printing needs.

HP offers reliable customer support and maintenance services
Not only can you find the best large-format printer for photographers with HP, but you'll also have access to top-tier customer support and maintenance as needed to keep your printer running the way it should. Regardless of the issue you might be facing, we're here to help resolve it.

If you have any questions about our large-format printers or want help with finding the best model for your photography practice, then contact PSW Paper & Print today

Footnotes

1. HP is reducing the carbon footprint of printing through carbon reduction initiatives such as energy efficiency, reduced packaging, and use of recycled plastics. The HP DesignJet Studio Printer is the first HP DesignJet where HP has offset the remaining carbon impact due to raw material extraction and processing, printer manufacturing and transportation, as well as electricity, paper, and cartridge use in accordance with The CarbonNeutral Protocol https://www.carbonneutral.com/how/carbonneutral-protocol

Raster Image Processing software, commonly known as RIP software, is an integral tool for any printing professional looking to deliver the finest quality of prints with the sharpest detail and colour variance. But what actually is RIP software, and how does it work? Even experienced employees, who have worked in the printing industry for many years, may find their knowledge about this topic limited.

There is a fair bit to uncover, even about the basics of RIP software. It is also equally important to know how RIP software differs from other regular printer drivers and how it performs to fundamentally improve your images. With the help of this article, expect to advance your understanding of RIP software and explore our expert tips, plus advice, on using it to fully capitalise on its benefits.

What Is RIP Software?

RIP software is a type of software that offers more control over your print production. It optimises digital images for printing by converting them from their native file formats into high-resolution raster images. With RIP software, you'll have control over every element of your workflow, from image editing to colour accuracy and overall print quality.

You can use it to adjust your image's colour, brightness, and contrast and handle other advanced printing techniques. On a technical level, there is so much you can do with RIP software to generate better prints.

RIP software aims to make printing easier, faster, and more accurate. It bypasses all other programs, allowing your computer to communicate directly with your digital printer. A computer-aided design operator will have access to pre-designed products and an option to create unique, customised print designs. If you would like to produce high-quality prints, RIP software can help you in the following ways:

• Easy manipulation of print (scaling, rotating, cropping)
• Creation of a more efficient printing process
• Automation of duplicate tasks like the placement of multiple files on a single sheet
• Ensuring consistency across multiple printers
• Creation of presets depending on your needs
• Accurate control over the print's colours

Image print RIP software eliminates the complexities of printing while ensuring you achieve superior printing quality.

Key Benefits of RIP Software

Speed

One of the key benefits of RIP software is its speed in processing your prints. The entire process happens within minutes, allowing your company to meet customer demands while retaining high quality. You can process multiple files, easily manipulate your prints, and create presets that speed up your printing process.

RIP software allows you to produce high-quality products by giving you complete control over the print files. You can adjust your print's scaling, opacity, colour correction, dot size, and other features to meet the desired print quality. This is especially crucial when printing large format prints. RIP software can resize your images while maintaining their quality.

Production Efficiency

RIP provides efficient functionalities and features that significantly optimise your company's printing workflow. It supports the simultaneous processing of multiple large files and ensures accurate prints and consistency across various printers.

Therefore, using RIP for your daily printing tasks means fewer reprints, reducing the wastage of paper and ink. This results in more efficient production that saves time and money.

How to Properly Use RIP Software for Printing

RIP software is essential in the production of high-quality printed products. It can be easily installed and used with different printers, including large format printers. Here is how to properly use RIP software for printing and enjoy the numerous workflow benefits.

Prepare Your Files for Printing with RIP Software

Image print RIP software offers an intuitive interface that makes it easy to prepare your files for printing through the following steps.

Set Up Print Parameters

After you launch ImagePrint RIP software, you can set up your print parameters:

1. Select your Printer
2. Set the Page Size, Quality, Roll/Sheet and Media Type

These settings may vary depending on the printer you're using.

Select Your Media Outlet Profiles

You can take the following steps to select a Printer Profile for the paper you'll use:

Click on Choose by Profile to choose from already downloaded profiles.

Configure Your Colour Management Settings

After acquiring the printer profiles, configure your colour management settings:

1. Expand the Printer selection area.
2. Select either ImagePrint manages colours or Printer manages colours.

Send Your Files to a Printer Using RIP Software

When you're ready to print, you can send your file to a printer by:

1. Click on the Print button at the top of the Dashboard.
2. Click OK to confirm your print settings.

Monitor the Printing Process

You can use Spoolface to control and monitor the printing process through the following steps:

1. Click on the Printer icon on the top right to open the Job Manager.
2. Look at the top Active side to see the job that's printing.
3. Monitor the job's progress in the Job Progress area on the right. It'll also show any errors or warnings that may arise.
4. Once it's done, it'll move to the bottom Saved side.
5. Monitor the printer's current status at the bottom left corner. Error codes will appear here in case the job runs into a problem.

What Are Some of the Advanced RIP Software Techniques?

RIPs offer a wide range of advanced features that enhance the printing process while improving the final product's quality. These features include:

• Colour management: Image print RIP software allows you to create ICC profiles, modify ink capacity, and offer linearisation control. You'll have superior colour management features to help you create accurate prints.
• Halftoning: Creates halftone patterns to ensure high-quality production of continuous-tone images
• Automation: Automate the printing process, including repetitive print jobs such as smart cropping, sizing, multi-page layout, tiling, and more.
• Scaling: Scale images without losing resolution.
• Job management: Manage print jobs such as scheduling and tracking.

With RIP software, you can effortlessly produce high-quality prints that meet and exceed your expectations.

Ensure Print Quality and Production Efficiency by:

Nesting

Nesting allows you to combine multiple files into one print job. RIP software will automatically organise images, shapes, and objects to maximise your print material. It will calculate and figure out the best positions to place them. This ensures efficient use of the space on your print, reducing the wastage of materials.

Tiling

RIP software includes tiling features, allowing you to print larger images without cutting off design elements. When an image is larger than your media size, tiling breaks it into specific sizes your printer can handle. Tiling separates the design image into multiple pieces that can then be printed on multiple pages. Tiling is crucial when you get a job too wide for your printer.

Imposition

When printing your work, RIP software utilises the imposition feature to combine various print works and print them simultaneously. This minimises the printing time and significantly reduces paper waste by maximising the number of orders per impression and thoroughly filling the print sheet. Proper planning and positioning allow your work to be printed effectively and in an orderly fashion.

Reach Out to PSW to Learn More About RIP Software

RIP can greatly affect your printing processes and output quality. It enables creativity, streamlines production, and improves workflow while reducing costs. Therefore, if you would like to increase efficiency and improve profitability, consider investing in RIP software and a high-quality large format printer.

At PSW, we have the right printing solutions for your business. We can help you utilise powerful RIP software to produce high-quality printed products with our extensive range of top-notch large format printers. Contact us today to learn more.

Converting GIS data into high-quality large-format prints is critical in effectively communicating spatial information. Whether it's creating maps, posters, or visualisations, accurate and vividly aesthetic representations of GIS data are essential. They facilitate meaningful discussions about geospatial observations and patterns in the GIS and topographic industry.

This article will explore the entire process of transforming GIS data into detailed large-format prints. These documents can empower GIS professionals and topographers to use their GIS data for meaningful analysis. From preparing the data to selecting the right printer and optimising print settings, a comprehensive breakdown of each important step in the conversion process will be discussed in detail.

Why Convert GIS Data Into High-Quality Large-Format Prints?

Geographic information systems (GIS) produce data that experts use in the real world - often for large-scale projects like land development, architecture, and city planning. High-quality and large-scale prints are essential to many workflows. So being able to create them with large-scale printing is a must.

The Link Between Quality GIS Data Output, Communication, and Decision-Making

GIS documents can inform decision-makers and help coordinate teams. Sometimes, they are the reference point for multiple teams working together. The accuracy of the GIS document can determine the accuracy of both decisions and coordinated work.

Understanding GIS Data Conversion

GIS documents are created by combining hundreds to thousands of data points layered into a single document. However, printers require image file types. Therefore, data conversion in GIS becomes an essential part of the process.

Converting GIS Data Into Printable Formats

GIS data must be compressed into a printable format. But that doesn't mean you have to lose detail or accuracy. Large-scale printers typically have the internal storage to handle very large, detailed, printable files.

Common File Formats

Used in GIS Compatibility With Large Format Printers The best file types for GIS printing are vector-based. This means they are lossless when scaled. File format options include:

• PNG
• SVG
• PSD

GIS Software and Tools in Preparing Data for Print

Several software options can be used in preparing GIS data for print—some GIS-specific and some for highly detailed image editing. Be sure the software you use can handle your mass of data without loss and output accurate vector graphics.

Preparing GIS Data for Print

What to Consider When Preparing GIS Data for Large Format Prints

When preparing GIS data for large format printing, you will need to prepare clear visual images that come out in a single printable layer, even if your original design document is a multi-layered mass of data. Consider data cleanup, projection adjustment, and scale adjustments when preparing for print.

Data Cleanup

Determine the exact data to be shown and make sure that data points do not create obscure messaging in your final print.

Projection Adjustments

If there are intentional map distortions, then make sure they are consistent across the document to convey the details necessary for your project.

Scale Adjustments

Scaling GIS data for printing is a critical stage that must be done either before converting your data to a printable form or with vector graphics that scale losslessly after file conversion.

Data Simplification and Generalisation for Improved Print Quality

It may be necessary to simplify and generalise your data to make clearer prints and achieve higher print quality. Too many points will create overlapping indicators that can reduce the clarity of your documents.

Selecting the Right Large Format Printer

The right printer is essential for large-format printing of GIS data. The printer must be able to hold the full size and detail of the document and print with extreme accuracy to provide the best quality print. Large Format Printers Suitable for GIS Data Prints Not all large-format printers have the specs necessary for GIS data or the available paper sizes to meet your needs. Large-format printers must be chosen based on the largest size and highest data quality you will need to print for future projects.

Printer Specifications and Capabilities Required

Printers for GIS large-format documents must have at least 150 dpi, and 300 dpi (dots per inch) is even better. You also need printers with a great deal of internal memory that can hold the large and highly detailed files that you need to print. The ability to handle tiling may also be essential to piece together even larger-sized maps.

Selecting a Printer That Can Handle GIS Data

It is always a good idea to consult printer manufacturers like HP to identify a large format printer that has what it takes to handle the demands of your GIS data.

Optimising Print Settings on a Large Format Printer

Print Settings That Produce Optimal GIS Data Printouts

If your desired GIS map size is bigger than the paper available, you can use tiling or 'poster' settings on your printer. Leave a margin on each page or allow for overlap so you can reconstruct the tiled map with a margin for error.

The Best Print Mode, Paper Type, and Ink Settings for GIS Data Output

Each printer will have specific settings available that will help increase the quality of your GIS data prints. Set your printer to the highest dpi and use the right combination of ink and paper for highly accurate details.

Quality Control and Proofing Prior to Printing Large Format GIS Data

Top Methods for Quality Control Prior to Large Format Printing Quality control depends on:

• Clear and simplified data
• Careful scaling of the map details, key, and indicators
• Test printing

Ensuring Data Accuracy, Visual Clarity, and Overall Print Quality

Simplify your data. Focus on visual clarity, and don't hesitate to use more than one map if you need to represent multiple layers of data. Some even print on sheer drafting pages to allow layer-by-layer overlays. Optimise your markups and keys and convert the whole document into a vector file type before test printing.

The Importance of Test Prints and Proofing

Test printing ensures that your final map is up to your quality standards. Printing a single tile can help you assess if the data is conveyed clearly enough and if the notations meet your needs.

Post-Printing Considerations About GIS Data Prints

How to Maintain GIS Data Prints' Durability and Longevity

Once your GIS document is fully printed, you will likely need it for active use. Large-form GIS printings tend to require protection so they can be used throughout a project but are more difficult to protect due to their large size. You will need to make sure a one-sheet or tiled map is kept flat and protected.

How to Protect and Best Showcase Your Large Format Prints

There are several possible methods to protect your prints.

Lamination

When you have a large enough laminator, you can machine-laminate your GIS print. This will seal two thin sheets of plastic over and around your GIS document, making it safe to pass around and actively use in a busy work site.

Mounting

You can mount your GIS map onto a board, giving it the durability and mobility of rigid backing. You can even seal over the mounted document with a sheet of plastic for safekeeping.

Framing

Place your GIS document in a glass-fronted frame. This can be useful for hanging a large-format map on the wall or even turning it into a live tabletop for better collaborative planning.

Troubleshooting Issues When Converting GIS Data into Large Format Prints Common

Issues Converting GIS Data Into Print Output

GIS printing sometimes requires a little troubleshooting to ensure that the maps come out with the quality, clarity, and utility that you require. Here are a few common issues and how to solve them.

Colour Inconsistencies

The colours on your screen and the colours achieved by a printer are not always the same. A more versatile printer with a wide colour range is ideal, but you may need to calibrate your printer settings to get the best results.

Artifacts

Artifacts can be flaws in the data image created during scaling or file conversion. Scale carefully and always ensure that your data points and key/notations have been translated into a printable format correctly.

Printing Errors

Printing errors can happen. Misalignment of the image to the paper, ink spots, dry ink cartridges, and memory buffer errors can occur. This is where test prints and settings adjustments come in handy.

Solutions and Tips to Achieve the Desired Print Quality

You can get the best quality GIS large-format prints by learning your printer and exploring the printer features with the help of a professional who understands all the printer settings and how each can impact the high-detail quality of your GIS printed documents.

Reach Out to PSW to Receive GIS Map Printing Solutions our HP printer experts will be happy to help you find the best high-quality plotter printer to create your large-scale GIS maps and documents.

Cheryl McLean at one of her workshops Cheryl McLean’s journey into the world of art and lettering began in her childhood, where she watched her grandfather create copperplate lettering with pen and ink. This early fascination with ornate patterns sparked a lifelong love of beautiful lettering. Cheryl took a formal sign painting course and then started her own business. The defining moment came when she was asked to create two large illustrated panels. With this project, she inadvertently created a niche for herself in what became known as “blackboard art”.

A niche becomes a worldwide success

Each project became a vibrant work of art, adorned with bright illustrations and colorful lettering that set them apart from digital print competitors. Cheryl’s hand-painted panels garnered praise and demand, with clients returning again and again to commission more, attributing their business success to her professional work. Cheryl’s dedication to her craft has earned her a loyal clientele throughout Sydney, where she works closely with clients. Alongside commercial work, Cheryl finds joy in taking on private commissions including murals, engagements and weddings, enriching people’s lives with her creativity and skill. In addition to her thriving business, Cheryl dedicates time to teaching workshops around the world, where she shares her passion for hand-painted signage and passes on the knowledge and skills she has gained in her twenty-five years in the industry.

One issue that arises for artists like Cheryl McLean is the challenge of shipping their artwork to clients around the world without it being damaged. Previously, artworks had to be collected in person or elaborately packaged to ensure they arrived safely at their destination. Not only can this be very time-consuming, but it can also incur additional costs and logistical complications. Therefore, there is a need for a solution that allows artists to send their work easily and safely without being tied to one location.

A solution for a global presence

At an exhibition, Cheryl discovered EasyDot® Chalkboard adhesive film, which turned out to be the perfect complement to her work. Its unique ability to be easily rolled up and shipped without damaging anything allows Cheryl to send her artwork to clients all over the world. The EasyDot® film also makes it easier to install, as it can be applied with little effort and no air bubbles. This discovery has not only improved Cheryl’s work processes but has also increased customer satisfaction by delivering high-quality and long-lasting results. Thanks to EasyDot®, Cheryl can make her designs in Australia and then easily ship them without having to be on-site. This flexibility allows her to offer her artwork internationally and reach customers worldwide without being bound by geographical restrictions. The ease of use not only facilitates shipping, but also on-site installation, which is a convenient solution for both Cheryl and her customers.

Special thanks

for the cooperation go out to Cheryl McLean and Sabine Giger.

Learn more about these fantastic artists on their Instagram: @Blackboardart_au @sabine_giger

Exploring the Future of Flexi: Flexi Complete:- In the ever-evolving landscape of design and printing software, staying ahead of the curve is paramount. Enter Flexi Complete, the latest offering from SAi, promising a suite of cutting-edge features to revolutionise the way professionals in the industry work. Let’s delve into what makes Flexi Complete a game-changer for designers, printers, and sign makers alike. Flexi Complete is the same Flexi you know and love but with a fresh new look and a bevy of improvements. Let’s see what’s new.

A Better User Experience

One of the standout features of Flexi Complete is its commitment to providing a seamless user experience. Flexi Complete brings a new look to the intuitive interface of Flexi. Designed to streamline workflows, users can navigate the software with ease, saving both time and effort. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out in sign making, DTF DTG, direct-to-vinyl, or other wide format printing applications Flexi Complete’s user-friendly design ensures that you can hit the ground running from day one.

Enhanced Design Capabilities

Flexi Complete empowers designers with enhanced capabilities to bring their creative visions to life. With an array of new tools and functionalities at their disposal, users can push the boundaries of design like never before. From advanced vector drawing tools to dynamic effects and filters, Flexi Complete offers unparalleled flexibility and control, allowing designers to unleash their creativity without limitations.

Optimised Printing Workflow

Efficiency is key in the world of printing, and Flexi is engineered to optimise every step of the printing workflow. With robust finishing tools and advanced color management features, users can ensure that their prints are accurate and of the highest quality, every time. Whether you’re producing large-scale signage or intricate graphics, Flexi’s printing capabilities are second to none.

Seamless Integration

Flexi seamlessly integrates with existing workflows, making it easy to incorporate into your existing setup. Whether you’re using other design software, RIP software, or hardware devices, Flexi plays nice with others, ensuring a smooth transition and minimal disruption to your operations. Flexi Complete offers a total package from design to production, including a powerful 64-bit RIP to give users a seamless workflow from start to finish.

Commitment to Innovation

At its core, Flexi Complete is a testament to SAi’s commitment to innovation. With a dedication to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, SAi continues to raise the bar in the world of design and printing software. Flexi Complete is not just a product but a reflection of SAi’s ongoing mission to empower professionals in the industry with the tools they need to succeed.

With its intuitive interface, enhanced design capabilities, optimised printing workflow, seamless integration, and commitment to innovation, Flexi Complete is made to revolutionise the way professionals in the sign and print industry work. Whether you’re a designer, printer, or sign maker, Flexi Complete is the ultimate tool to bring your creative visions to life.

About SA International (SAi).

Headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, SA International (SAi) is recognised as the global leader in providing software solutions for the sign making, digital printing, textile, and CNC machining industries - from design to production.  SAi's Flexi family of software products rank as the world's number one software for sign making and digital printing, outselling all competitors combined.  Flexi is found on more wide-format printers than any other software.  In addition, the company is one of the leaders in the CNC machining and router markets with its EnRoute CAD/CAM software.

SAi has a large and loyal network of resellers around the world and has over 250,000 customers in more than 150 countries.  SAi enjoys strong OEM relationships with industry-leading manufacturers.  In addition to its USA headquarters, SAi has offices in Brussels, Belgium, Sao Paulo, Brazil, Shanghai and Hong Kong, China, Pune, India, Tel Aviv, Isreal and Tokyo Japan.