Working in an AEC firm or other design-focused environment means that document and design printing is in constant demand. This fast-paced environment requires a printer that can quickly produce the prints you need—without sacrificing the quality your work demands. Plotter printers are versatile tools that are an integral part of many offices, and because of the high demand and evolving technology, a dizzying array of models is available.

Selecting the right one for your work environment boils down to understanding your needs and what options are available. When armed with the right information, you can select a plotter printer with nimble scanning abilities that will meet your business needs.

To dive into the facts about plotter printer scanners, let's have a look at some important details about how they work and what they can do for you.

Large format printers are indispensable in certain work environments. Plotter printers create images using computer commands in files in formats such as AI, PWG, and CDR. A scanner extends that capability, allowing the printer to reproduce hard copy or paper images.

These versatile printers are an important part of these dynamic work environments because they create large, functional copies of complex designs, such as architectural drawings. Having large-scale printouts enables designers to reproduce and communicate their work accurately without sacrificing important details.

One of the big decisions you'll need to make when choosing a plotter printer scanner is if you want to opt for an inkjet or toner printer. Here are some of the pros and cons.

• Higher printing capacity
• No drying time needed
• Efficiently handles high-volume and frequent print jobs
• Doesn't need ventilation
• Durable and generally lasts years longer than toner printers

• More expensive to purchase
• Higher maintenance costs
• Colour printers are less common
• Higher upfront costs

• Less expensive to purchase
• Colour printers are common
• Costs less to maintain

• Slower printing
• The ink needs time to dry
• More likely to run when exposed to water
• Ink costs more than toner

Ultimately, your choice comes down to which type of printer will meet your needs. The different strengths of ink or toner printers are only one element to consider. You should also take into account the best size for your documents. The best plotter printer scanners are available in widths of 24", 36", 44", and 60". You should also consider the print quality and speed that you require.

For certain applications, a large format scanner is the only option that will work. It provides a wide range of functionality for your work. Here are some of the reasons this may be the ideal tool for you.

The size of large format prints, combined with the available print quality, means that these plotter printers can produce highly accurate reproductions with dependable print resolution.

The best printer for scanning documents can handle a wide range of media types, accepting files in TIFF, JPEG, URF, HP-GL/2, HP-RTL, and CALS G4 formats, among others. A scanner also allows you to replicate physical images, including fragile documents.

The demands of a fast-paced work environment shouldn't mean that you should have to sacrifice print quality. Large print sizes enable you to maintain important details, while the best plotter printers can quickly produce the necessary documents.

The more colour cartridges your printer has, the better the colour accuracy will be. Modern plotter printers can reproduce colours with better accuracy than ever before.

The wide range of models available ensures that almost any business can find a plotter printer scanner that will meet their needs. With a clear understanding of your needs and which type of printer will be best for your office, you will almost certainly find the right product for you.

Keep in mind that the initial expense isn't the only budget item to consider. The maintenance costs and the warranty length also weigh in on the long-term value.

To get you started in your search, here are some of the HP plotter printer scanners that we recommend.

When you're looking for a plotter printer scanner for small-to-medium-sized AEC firms, the HP DesignJet T850 MFP may be the ideal choice. It works well for hybrid and flex teams, prints on media up to 36 inches, and offers additional copy and scan capabilities.

• Up to 25 sec/page on D, 90 D prints per hour
• 2 GB of internal memory
• Included: stand, integrated B tray (automatically switch from roll to sheet), and output bin
• Optional accessories: HP DesignJet Sheet Organiser, HP DesignJet Sheet Organiser and Stacker Kit

A flexible choice for small-to-medium firms, the HP DesignJet T950 MFP is available with either 1GB or 2GB of internal memory, and it includes a stacker, integrated input/output, and a 300 ft roll.

• Available in 36"
• Up to 21 sec/page on D, 120 D prints per hour
• Included: stand, integrated B tray so you can automatically switch from roll to sheet, sheet organiser, and stacker

Mid-size businesses with CAD/GIS workgroups will appreciate this 36-inch plotter. The HP DesignJet T2600 36-inch MFP has additional scan and copy functionality, efficient output, and security.

• Integrated scanner
• Up to 19.3 sec/page on D, 180 D prints per hour
• 6 inks (C, M, Y, G, pK, mK)
• One roll
• Top stacker for media output
• 128 GB virtual memory

For more information about the best plotter printer for your organisation, we invite you to contact us today. Our experts are here to walk you through your options and help you find the ideal product for your business.