By Tom Wetzel
Solutions Architect
The architecture, engineering, and construction industry has seen rapid growth in recent years in the technology used for digital design and building information modeling. Amongst these new and improved technology devices are in-house large-format printers. With some exciting new features, this new breed of printers can help save design time and costs.
IMPROVED WORKPLACE EFFICIENCY
Long used in the office copier environment, some large- format printers now have software to collect data on their usage. This makes possible features such as quick print speed, the ability to change ink during a task, saving print jobs for reuse in the future, tracking file information, and processing large files promptly. The best part is that these features not only help users save time by not having to keep track of print jobs and processing, but they also allow anyone to utilize the device with little training.
MULTIFUNCTION DESIGN
The easy accessibility for various users comes from the large-format printer's various multi-function features. These devices can complete color copies, graphic presentations, and reports. The in-house printer is also able to handle large CAD files. All this mean less need for training and fewer devices in general within a workspace. Sketches, photos, blueprints, and presentations are now readily available for exhibition and communication in creators' work. Firms will find it helpful to be able to print large displays of their designs to showcase their visionary plans in accurate detail.
INCREASED PRODUCTIVITY
Rapid print speed and powerful memory enable users to reduce the time spent using these printers. It takes next to no time for printing jobs to be loaded and completed. Now detailed graphics and designs will not weigh down memory storage and thus increase the time it takes to complete a task.
FAST DOCUMENT CREATION/SHARING
Increased memory storage with these devices also allows for faster processing and renderings. There will be no more issues with delays and drawn-out print times due to limited memory. New large format printers deliver quick document creation and sharing by allowing users to email, scan, save, and print documents right from the workstation of the printer rather than having to initiate from a separate device.
REDUCED COSTS
With these large format, multi-functional printers, most jobs and tasks won't have to be done off-site. These printers can also track the amount of ink and media used for each print job and export those numbers to Excel for billing jobs. The device also offers the option of utilizing different printing modes for choosing how detailed users would like their graphics to be, which can help reduce ink consumption and overall cost.
New wide-format printers have much to offer, but before you bring one into your business, you still need to consider some basic questions. Is leasing or purchasing the printer better? Will it smoothly connect with my network and users? Are there any positives to renewing current machine contracts? Make sure you do your research but don't miss out on some of the new features that can help give your business an edge.
