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Since their emergence in the 1980s, large format plotter printers have dominated the printing industry with their ability to generate high-quality vector drawings. They have allowed multiple professionals, particularly those operating in AEC firms, to seamlessly produce large-scale prints of designs, maps, architectural plans, and beyond. Through their versatility, they've carved their own place in printing history.

However, only a few know about the origins of large format plotter printers, such as when they were first manufactured, what printing looked like before plotters were introduced, and the magnitude of their impact on the printing industry. It is a fascinating journey of technological advancements that have transformed how printing is done today compared to the mid-90s.

The History of Printing

Printing history started around 200 AD when woodblock printing was developed in China as the earliest form of printing. Woodblock printing involved engraving and inking wooden matrices before pressing them onto a sheet of paper. This was the first time in printing history when a design could be created and accurately replicated.

In the 11th century, Bi Sheng invented the movable type, allowing individual letters to be placed in any order and printed. Fast-forward to the 15th century, when Gutenberg created the first printing press, which used movable metal type. It was more robust and used oil-based inks instead of water-based inks.

In the 19th century, Richard March invented the rotary press, which used a revolving cylinder instead of a flatbed. At first, the system was hand fed with single sheets before a paper roll invention sped up the printing process. Around the same time, Robert Barclay invented the offset press, which printed onto metal before it was later adapted to print onto paper.

The 20th century saw the invention of screen printing, inkjet printing, laser printing, and digital printing, which changed how printing was done. Printing history and the printing industry are still evolving, as seen by the invention of 3D printing, whose popularity is rapidly growing.

The Early Beginnings of Large Format Printing

Since its inception at the end of the last century, large format printing has significantly advanced. Let's look at how it all began, from the use of electrostatic technology to the invention of inkjet technology.

What Is a Large Format Plotter?

What Did Large Format Printing Look Like Before Plotter Printers?

The Very First Large Format Plotter Technologies

Pen Plotters

Electrostatic Plotters

Drum Plotters

Influence of Printing in the Philippines

Printing has significantly impacted the cultural, educational, and economic landscape of the Philippines. The adoption and evolution of large format printing technology, particularly through innovations by companies like HP, have furthered this influence by enhancing various sectors.

Historical Context

Modern Applications

Large format plotters and printers, such as those developed by HP, are integral to various modern applications in the Philippines:

Architecture and Engineering: Engineers and architects use large format printers to produce precise and detailed blueprints and plans, facilitating accurate construction projects.
Advertising and Marketing: High-resolution banners, posters, and billboards produced by large format printers are crucial for effective marketing campaigns.
Graphic Design: Designers leverage these printers for creating stunning visuals, enhancing the quality of their work and meeting client expectations.

The Rise of Inkjet Technology

The early large format plotter technologies produced blurry images and prints of lower quality. This led to the rise of inkjet technology in the 2000s period of printing history.

What Is Inkjet Technology?

How Did Inkjet Technology Revolutionise the Large Format Printing Industry?

Inkjet Large Format Printers vs. Early Plotters

How Did This Lead to Printing Advancements?

Recent Advancements in Large Format Plotters

With the high adoption rate and advancement in printing technology, large format plotters have continued to grow and evolve. From increased use of automation to developing sustainable solutions and continuous adoption in different industries.

Large format plotters have seen rapid innovations that streamline printing operations, shorten production runs, and create sustainable printing environments. This has allowed print production companies to produce work of the highest quality in less time.

How Have Large Format Plotters Changed Over Time?

Increased Speed

More Precision

More Versatility

Modern-Day Printing Technologies and Their Benefits

UV Curable Printing

Dye Sublimation Printing

Aqueous Solvent Printing

The Latest Technology in Plotter Printers

Integrated Cutters

Higher Software Capabilities

Why Do Large Format Plotters Need to Continue Evolving?

Like any other form of technology, large format plotters must continue evolving to meet ever-changing needs. They can't stop evolving, or they risk being left behind in printing history. The need for companies to meet deadlines, increase efficiency, customise products, and maintain excellent quality can only be achieved with new advancements in printing technologies. Therefore, the large format printing industry will continue evolving with innovative designs, features, and abilities.

What Are Plotter Printers Used For?

Which Industries Are Reliant on Large Format Printing?

Reach Out to HP to Meet Your Plotter Printer Needs

With the continuous technological advances in the world of large format printing, plotter printers are becoming an integral part of business operations. They open new revenue streams and allow your business to print deliverables exceeding customer expectations while keeping your business efficient, competitive, and productive.

So don't compromise on the features crucial to your business when buying a plotter printer. At HP, we can help you utilise plotter printers to generate value. Contact our experts today to find the best large-format printer that suits your needs.

Download our eBook now and discover how innovation is streamlining workflows, producing prints of unmatched quality and increasing IT efficiency like never before.