Printers for CAD drawings HP DesignJet 430, 450C and 488CA.

The capabilities of the Hewlett-Packard DesignJet 500ps suggests its time to retire the earlier Hewlett-Packard DesignJet 430, 488CA, and 450C. These HP 400-series were current printers in 1999.

The advances with the HP 130 suggest it is time to use that to retire the HP 500ps.

 If you wish black only, however, better find an HP 430 quickly, since hardly any of the newer printers are monochrome. 300 dpi is also a thing of the past. The newer HP printers are 1200 x 600 dpi.

FLAAR is a nonprofit institute associated with the architecture department at each of the two university campuses where we maintain inkjet printer evaluation facilities. FLAAR itself is an institute dedicated to the study of architectural history (of pre-Columbian civilizations of ancient Mesoamerica). Thus our background is in maps, architectural drawings, and plotters. We have two CAD plotters in our institute currently and there is another in the architecture department itself, next door. FLAAR also has several other large format inkjet printers (24" up to 60" models).

If your architectural practice is growing, you might also want to consider the HP 4500.

For additional information and for help making your decision, ask for the FLAAR report on CAD-GIS plotters.

If this will be your first printer or your first printer where you need help understand what a RIP is, then we have a special report that holds your hand and leads you through all the basic questions that will assist a first-time buyer of a large format printer. Purchase the FLAAR report on "RIP + Help." This explains what RIP software is, why this is useful, and includes tips, warnings, information, and help for a wide range of matters for a newbie. Here you will really appreciate that FLAAR is based at a university; Professor Hellmuth has plenty of experience writing in a manner that explains what you need, and why.

If you are seeking a used HP DesignJet printer. So if you need reassurance that your used printer is reconditioned, or at least has a 30-day warranty, consider checking Stacey Cherry at CGS (Cad Graphic Supply), e-mail [email protected].

We only recommend resources that offer competent technical support, experience based on years in the business, and a company where we have personally met (and checked out) the people behind the name. Thus if you are considering acquiring any HP DesignJet printer, you can contact CGS with confidence.

 

Most recently updated January 30, 2006.
Previous updates: March 11, 2005, July 05, 2001.