Geographic Information Systems (GIS) require high-quality map systems to accomplish work-related tasks effectively. Having maximum precision and clarity across map printouts, therefore, is essential to ensuring that those maps can accomplish their goals. GIS professionals frequently seek highly effective plotter printers that can generate the high-quality map systems they need.

Creating GIS maps means running complex print jobs that must maintain a high level of detail and accuracy to provide enhanced spatial data visualization. As a result, it is incredibly important to choose the right plotter printer for map systems, including taking the key elements of those print jobs into account as the business makes a selection.

To create accurate, detailed map systems, plotter printers must have a number of essential features. These features include:

As you select a plotter printer for your GIS needs, make sure you have a printer that supports paper rolls large enough for your specific needs. Carefully consider elements like what types of maps you are most likely to need to create and at what scale.

Vector-driven plotting ensures a high level of accuracy in your map printouts, which is essential for many GIS needs. Vectored plotting creates prints by using mathematical formulas that lay out specific points on a grid. As a result, they are better able to produce highly accurate images. This advanced printing technology can go a long way toward ensuring you can achieve your goals.

DPI, or "dots per inch," refers to the number of dots found per inch of an image. To get the details you need in a high-resolution map print, you need a high number of dots per inch. Generally, aim for at least 300 DPI. Higher DPI will result in a sharper, more accurate image.

HP has several plotter printers that can achieve the high resolution and large size needed for accurate GIS output.

The HP DesignJet T250 24-in Plotter has many of the features you need to make the most of your GIS map printing efforts. It is available for paper widths up to 24" and runs up to 2400 x 1200 DPI. These specs make it perfect for the high-resolution capability you need for your GIS map printer.

The HP DesignJet T650 Plotter comes in 24" and 36" models, which means it's designed to handle some of your largest-format print needs. It prints at up to 2400 x 1200 DPI, so you can feel confident that you're getting the high standard of quality you need.

When you need a more polished look for your office, the HP DesignJet Studio Wood Plotter offers a high standard of quality, along with the beauty and class you're looking for. It comes in 24" and 36" models, so you can select the size that best fits your needs. It prints at 2400 x 1200 DPI.

The HP DesignJet T730 36-in (914-mm) Printer is intended primarily for CAD and general-purpose applications. It comes in a 36" model and prints at up to 2400 x 1200 DPI resolution, making it ideal for many GIS mapping needs. The HP DesignJet T730 36-in (914-mm) Printer is also one of the fastest models on the market, so it can handle your high-yield printing needs with ease.

When you're taking care of many needs in your office environment, especially if you're constrained to a small space, you may need a plotter printer that can handle it all. That's where the HP DesignJet T830 36-in Multifunction Plotter comes in. This 36" multifunction printer will take care of printing, scanning, and copying with ease. Like the other HP plotter models, it includes up to 2400 x 1200 DPI quality.

Selecting the right plotter printer for your GIS needs is essential. Take these unique factors into account as you select the best plotter printer for your needs.

Start by looking at the GIS mapping software you use and making sure that it is compatible with the printer you're considering. You put a lot of effort into selecting the right mapping software, so put the same effort into choosing the ideal printer for your needs.

Before you can select the best plotter printer for your GIS mapping needs, you need to make sure that it fits within your budget. Your budget may vary depending on the type of work you do, your department, and even the time of year. Keep in mind that investing in a high-quality plotter printer can make a big difference in the quality of your maps and prints, so make sure that you consider that as you generate your budget.

If you'll be using your plotter printer very frequently, then it may prove helpful to invest in a faster printer that will hold up to your demand. Carefully consider how often you will use the printer and how high your demand will likely be. By considering your usage, you can determine the best printer for your GIS printing needs.

If you have questions about the right plotter printer for your needs, from determining whether it is compatible with your GIS mapping software to selecting the right size for your office or your GIS needs, HP is here to help. Reach out to us today to learn more about our GIS printers and how they can help you achieve your goals.