Large Format Printers and Scanners - Their Many Uses

                                            Wide format printers, impressive innovations in the digital printing business, have paved the way for the production of very large, even enormous prints without losing color, accuracy or quality. When coupled with a large format scanner, the number of ways such a printer can be utilized are nearly limitless.

These unique printers are specialized, most often found in profitable printing businesses and have the capacity to create prints from 17 inches in width to 100 inches depending on the model you choose. They can be used for many advertising and informational purposes like creating attractive promotional signage and banners, architectural and engineering plans, professional attractive banners made for special events and parties, materials for lectures, visual aids or other informational materials used in educational settings, and custom, oversized tri-fold brochures.

In addition, large format scanners can be used for preserving records of delicate artwork and historical documents, newspapers, blueprints and many other documents that standard size options can't accommodate. When used in conjunction with a high-quality printer, enlargement and enhancement of important details in scanned documents is easy. Also, it becomes possible to produce full size samples of graphic art as well as fine art giclee prints from scans of artwork.

Paper for large format printers, generally known as plotter paper, typically comes in rolls for greater compatibility. It is available in many different types. Basic papers such as universal bond are designed for line drawings, producing sharp line resolution and making low cost prints, and coated papers that come in matte for colorful, bright medium density images and high gloss photo paper that's great for visual presentations with a colored or graphic display. Some manufacturers also offer an "instant dry" gloss photo paper option that, as its name implies, dries faster while still producing a glossy finish. Many of these papers are quite reasonably priced and offer an array of options for economically printing everything from posters and photos to blueprints and other oversized documents.

Synthetic films designed for many kinds of outdoor and indoor signs are available for specified wide format printers and last longer than paper. Adhesive back films can be repositioned and are used to print logos, advertisements or decals which are then placed on cars, trucks and buses.

Wide format scanners are available in many different sizes and types as well. Most are sheet-fed, but some large flatbed units are also available to accommodate a greater range of items to be scanned. These scanners complement other wide format products and come in prices ranging from very low to very high depending on the capabilities and attributes, with color scanners being somewhat more expensive than black and white ones.

When purchasing a large format printer, copier or scanner, it is worth considering a used or refurbished option. Saving around 50% of the cost of buying new is possible; however your purchase will probably not come with a service contract or guarantee.