Factors You Need To Consider Before Selecting A Grand Format Flatbed Printer
Grand format flatbed printers, also referred to as grand UV flatbed printers, use UV inks to print on large items, such as large acrylic signs or wide pieces of canvas fabric. This allows you to create banners, signs, tradeshow displays, point of purchase signage, and posters. While these printers have many uses, they are pricey. As such, you want to take the time to ensure that the printer you are considering investing in meets your needs prior to purchasing it. Here are a few of the factors that you need to consider before selecting a grand format flatbed printer for your company.
What Materials the Printer Prints On
One of the first things that you need to consider before selecting a grand format flatbed printer is what materials the printer is capable of printing on, and the size capacity for these materials. Some printers can print on metal, acrylic, canvas, and vinyl, while others may not be able to print on the same materials. If you are primarily printing on one type of material, you want to find a printer that can print on that specific material. If you want to print on a wide array of materials, you need to find a printer that can handle the material types that your clients are most interested in.
If the Printer is Compatible With Your Existing Equipment
Another important factor to consider before settling on a grand format flatbed printer is whether the printer is compatible with your existing computer equipment, computer software, and printing equipment. If the printer you select is not compatible with the equipment you already own, you may have to upgrade that software or buy new equipment. You want to find equipment that is compatible and works well together.
Whether You Should Lease or Buy the Printer
The final factor to consider before buying a grand format flatbed printer is whether you should buy or lease this type of printer. These printers range in cost from the high five-figure to the low six-figure range. This is a lot of money for many businesses. Leasing a grand format flatbed printer may make more sense if you are unsure if you will get a lot of use out of the printer or if you do not have a lot of extra money to invest in the printer. Always weigh the pros and cons of leasing versus buying to help you make the right decision.
Grand format flatbed printers are not small purchases. The equipment is rather large and it is quite pricey. As such, you want to ensure that the machine you are buying best meets your needs before you invest in the equipment. Take the time to learn what materials the printer is capable of printing on and whether the equipment is compatible with your existing computer and printing equipment. Then weighing the pros and cons of buying versus leasing the equipment will help you determine which route you should take as you look to acquire a grand format flatbed printer.