Plotter opinions needed

[heypal]

Hello,

 

For plotting our "D" size prints for the welding shop, we use a HP Designjet 455CA. Over the years (about 10) this has been a great machine. Reliable, sharp, easy to use and best of all compact. Well in recent days, the print quality has tapered quickly. Now it is to the point that it does not plot at all. With the machine being a decade old, I wonder if it is time to replace the old girl. After looking on HP's website, the Designjet 510 is available. For about two grand it looks like a great replacement, however before ordering I wanted some opinions from you. This plotter would primarily be used to plot B&W, D size prints. On average about 20 prints a week. So nothing to fancy is required. Is there a plotter out there that would do the job better for the price??

 

Thanks,

Pal

[Glen Smith]

Far be it from me to keep anyone from buying new toys -er- tools, but have you replaced printheads? How about a general service and cleaning? For muck less than the cost of a new machine, you may be able to extend the life of what you have considerable.

 

We use a DJ 1050C that can do up to E-size. Its a bit fiddly when the ink is low, but other than that works just fine.

 

Glen

[heypal]

We just had it serviced last August for general cleaning and maintenance. I talked to the guy that did it today. I asked him about parts and they are likely not avavilable anymore. So we are thinking of getting a new one and in the mean time trying to get the old one fixed ourselves for a differant part of the office. If it doesn't work, we are not out anything.