Newbie Questions

[mvanweer]

Hi All,
I'm new to the wide format field, but not new to printing. I have acquired an HP 3500cp to do some lighter jobs ( paper banners, signs, vinyl banners, etc.). Not big production by any stretch. I have been playing with this thing for a couple of weeks now and am looking to put it into production, but have a few questions.

1. RIP software - one machine, networked, can print both from Mac or PC. I know from lurking here that software RIP will give me greater flexibility when it comes to nesting, speed, color gamut, etc., but what, in your opinion would work best?

2. Lamination - I'm thinking that I can go with liquid lamination to start. I'm looking at the Daige EZ Glide for its simplicity, and it's looks like it will work better than spray or roll. Am I off base? Should I go with a cold/hot combo?

3 - Suppliers of materials / inks - I'm on the Central coast of Cali. Any suggestions of a supplier that can educate me in the materials this thing can handle? Everything that I've searched for seems to only suggest HP materials. The person I got this from mentioned he was running canvas through it, but he has since moved away, so no help there.

4. Anything else I missed. If there's anything I'm missing to get this into production, please let me know.

TIA,
Matt
Lighthouse Litho, Cambria CA

[ianwake]

I have a HP 3800CP, pretty much the same machine. But hardly use it nowdays.

1. You will need some RIP software as well as design software. I use Flexisign
with Photoshop and Illustrator. Without a RIP you really can't operate at all.
Suggest you at least look for Flexi 7.6 but you must get the USB Dongle
and make sure it is original not pirate.

2. Materials, Your best bet is Fellers, great supplier and catalogue is very extensive.

3. Personally I hate liquid lamination always a mess. Look for a cold laminator
try usedprinterdeals.com. They have some at entry level prices.


This type of printer needs coated media so expensive if you are doing any volume at all you will find that your cost is high. Watch your volume and the moment you have enough get an EcoSolvent Machine. Mutoh, Roland etc etc.

You have two ink choice Dye and UV. The Dye is a bit cheaper and has a better gamut but will fade fast. Use just one choice the UV and stick with it.
Every time you swap you loose media, Time and Ink.

Give me a call to discuss anything else.


Regards
480-994-4000