Printers for Government Archives

Posted on May 16, 2025May 14, 2025 by abidemisblog

Top HP Wide Format Printers to Buy in 2025

In 2025, print volumes are declining across many industries due to widespread digitization.

Government offices and municipalities, for example, are shifting paperwork online and printing far less than before.

With fewer “must-print” pages, buyers in 2025 are prioritizing lower-volume, lower-foot-print devices that still deliver professional speed and security.

At Steven Enterprises, the five HP wide format printers below are the ones our clients ask for most, organized from highest to moderate volume.

Each blends productivity with a lean cost profile that suits today’s hybrid workflows.

1. HP DesignJet XL 3800 – Fast and Secure Wide Format Printer for High-Productivity Teams

The HP DesignJet XL 3800 is the fastest color printer in its class, making it ideal for architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) professionals who need quick turnaround on large-format prints.

This 36-inch multifunction printer (MFP) produces color and monochrome drawings with exceptional quality, so offices can consolidate into one device for all wide-format needs. It’s designed to keep busy project teams moving efficiently with minimal downtime.

Why Purchase the HP DesignJet XL 3800:

Blazing Speed: Delivers up to 6 D/A1-size prints per minute, so large CAD sets or GIS maps are ready in moments. The first page out is as fast as 20 seconds, meaning no long warm-up waits.
High Print Quality: Produces excellent line accuracy for CAD drawings and vivid colors for graphics.
Integrated Scanner & Workflow: As an MFP, it offers easy one-click copying and scanning from the 15-inch touchscreen panel. This simplifies document workflows by letting you scan markups or copies directly.
Top-Tier Security: Protects your network and data with HP’s advanced security features. In fact, HP touts it as “the world’s most secure large-format printer,” with secure boot, user authentication, and other safeguards built in.
Space-Saving Design: Despite its capability, the XL 3800 has a compact footprint about 20% smaller than previous generation models. This gives you extra workspace and flexibility in smaller offices.

Learn more about the HP DesignJet XL 3800.

2. HP DesignJet XL 3600 – Compact, Reliable & Low-Cost Operation

The HP DesignJet XL 3600 is a dependable wide-format MFP built for consistent output in environments that don’t require extremely high print volumes. Its reputation for reliability and low operating costs makes it a go-to choice for offices that value simplicity, efficiency, and steady performance.

It is often praised as “immediate and reliable” – it simply works whenever needed. This printer is an excellent choice for organizations that value low operating costs and dependability over sheer speed.

It’s particularly well-suited to offices that print a mix of technical documents and need them done right every time.

Why Purchase the HP DesignJet XL 3600:

Quick First Print: The HP DesignJet XL 3600 delivers the fastest first-page-out in its class—just 29 seconds for a D-size print—so your team can grab documents on demand and keep projects moving without delays.
Low Running Costs: Built for efficiency, the XL 3600 uses less energy and features long-life components to minimize maintenance and lower your total cost of ownership over time.
Large Touchscreen & Ease of Use: A generous 15.6-inch touchscreen panel gives easy access to features. Users can print directly from personal or shared network folders and use HP Click software for efficient batch PDF printing.
Quiet, Office-Friendly Design: This model has a compact, 30% smaller footprint and quiet operation to fit comfortably in office settings.
Rock-Solid Reliability: The XL 3600’s robust design easily handles demanding environments. Features like automatic print stacking (up to 100 pages) and auto media loading make printing hassle-free.

Learn more about the HP DesignJet XL 3600.

3. HP DesignJet XT 950 – Multi-Size Efficiency Wide Format Printer for AEC and GIS

The HP DesignJet XT 950 is purpose-built for teams that juggle both large-format and smaller-size prints on a daily basis.

This dual-format flexibility makes it a perfect fit for AEC, GIS, and design offices where switching between full-size plans and reduced check prints is routine.

Why Purchase the HP DesignJet XT 950 Wide Format Printer:

Dual-Format Printing: The XT 950 has an integrated input tray for up to 100 half-size sheets (Letter, Tabloid, or A3/B) and an output sorter, allowing mixed-size print jobs in one go.
Productive Speed: It prints a D-size page in ~21 seconds (up to 90 D-size prints per hour), which is faster than most competitors in its class. This keeps project workflows moving, even when you have many pages to get through.
High Image Quality: HP’s pigment-based Flex Tech Inks ensure high-quality output for both line drawings and graphics. Technical line work comes out sharp and fine details in renders or maps are clear, with ink that resists smudging and water.
Simplified Workflow: HP Click software support means you can send multiple files (even a mix of sizes) to print in just a few clicks with a real-print preview.

Learn more about the HP DesignJet XT 950.

4. HP DesignJet T1600 – Precision Printing with High-End Features

The HP DesignJet T1600 is a 36-inch plotter that offers high-end precision and advanced workflow features for technical and graphics printing.

It’s popular among design firms and departments that require sharp detail and robust performance but don’t quite need the ultra-high speed of an XL series.

The T1600 stands out for its easy PDF printing capabilities and professional output stacking.

Why Purchase the HP DesignJet T1600:

Superior Print Accuracy: With six inks (including gray and photo black), the T1600 produces fine line detail and smooth color gradients ideal for CAD drawings, architectural renderings, and posters. It faithfully reproduces complex schematics and color-critical visuals.
Fast Throughput: This model can print up to 180 D-size prints per hour (in fast mode). That’s about 3 D-size sheets per minute, enough speed to meet tight deadlines on large drawing sets. It also supports dual-roll configurations, so you can load two different media types or sizes and switch automatically.
Easiest PDF Printing: The T1600 features the Adobe PDF Print Engine, allowing it to process complex PDF files natively and accurately. You can send multi-page PDFs directly to print, and with HP Click software, batch printing becomes faster and more streamlined than ever.
100-Page Stacking Tray: One standout feature is the integrated output stacker that neatly collates up to 100 sheets. Prints stack neatly and come out flat, eliminating the mess of scattered pages. This feature is valuable when you’re producing large sets like construction plans or GIS map series.
Quiet and Secure Operation: The T1600 is designed for the office – it operates quietly and includes the same HP Wolf Security features for network protection and user access control as other modern HP models.

Learn more about the HP DesignJet T1600.

5. HP DesignJet T850 – Compact CAD/GIS Plotter with Green Credentials

Rounding out our list is the HP DesignJet T850, a compact large-format printer built for CAD drawings, maps, and rendering outputs in small offices or remote job sites.

The HP DesignJet T850 proves that even as printing becomes less frequent, having a dependable in-house printer is still a smart move.

It gives architects, engineers, and GIS specialists a convenient way to produce high-quality large-format prints only when needed, without overspending on a bigger machine.

Why Purchase the HP DesignJet T850 Wide Format Printer:

Space-Saving, Modern Design: Notably, the T850’s compact 36-inch design seamlessly includes an integrated 50-sheet A3/A4 tray. Thus, it prints half-size sets effortlessly without manual paper switches.
Capable Performance: Despite its size, the T850 swiftly outputs D-size drawings in 25 seconds, approximately 90 per hour. Hence, it suits low to mid-volume CAD or poster printing.
Excellent Ink Efficiency: Specifically, its pigment-based inks consistently ensure durable, crisp lines and vibrant fills. Moreover, efficient ink use significantly lowers print costs.
Mobile and Secure Printing: Similarly, the T850 supports HP Smart app printing, allowing mobile job management. Additionally, HP Wolf Security effectively protects data

Learn more about the HP DesignJet T850.

Optimize Your Print Workflow with an HP Wide Format Printer

As processes go digital, investing in a quality wide-format printer still remains essential for many businesses in 2025 and beyond.

Moreover, the right printer enables you to consistently produce critical, high-quality documents, plans, and presentations as needed.

Not sure which HP wide format printer is right for your organization? Let our team guide you to the right fit. Call 800-491-8785 or fill out this contact form for a personalized sizing analysis. We will help you choose a solution that keeps your work moving and your overhead lean.

Posted on February 28, 2025February 19, 2025 by laylalameijer

Top-Rated Flatbed Scanners for Fragile Documents and Art

In the world of preservation, whether it’s for museums, government archives, or educational institutions, the right equipment is crucial for digitizing delicate items without causing damage. Unlike standard scanners or basic apps, specialized scanners for fragile documents are designed to handle fragile documents and art with the utmost care, ensuring their longevity and accessibility.

Why Specialized Scanners are Necessary for Fragile Items

Common scanners often used in offices are not suitable for fragile documents and artworks. Roll scanners and sheet feeders, for example, can damage originals by pinching or tearing them if they catch an edge. Furthermore, removing items from their frames for scanning can also pose a risk of damage.

The Advantages of Digitizing Fragile Art and Documents

Digitizing artworks and fragile documents not only helps in reducing physical storage needs but also safeguards the items against potential disasters, such as fires. Moreover, digital reproductions allow for the creation and sale of high-quality copies, making art more accessible and generating additional revenue streams for artists and institutions.

Top Recommended Scanners for Fragile Artwork by Steven Enterprises

1. WideTEK 36 Art Scanner

Features: This scanner can handle media up to 8 inches thick and includes internal lighting that creates a 3D effect to enhance the details in artworks. It scans items by sliding them across a flat table, minimizing contact and potential damage.
Price: Approximately $40,000 to $50,000.
General Benefit: Operates as a standalone scan station with a touchscreen interface, requiring no dedicated computer or network connection.

Learn more about the WideTEK 36 Art Scanner here.

2. WideTEK 25 Art Scanner

Features: Offers a more affordable solution with the same 3D lighting feature as the WideTEK 36 but with a smaller scan bed. Ideal for projects with smaller dimensions.
Price: Significantly less than the WideTEK 36, with prices varying depending on the bundle chosen.

Learn more about the WideTEK 25 Art Scanner here.

3. MicroTEK Flatbed Scanner

Features: Best for super fragile documents due to its flat glass feature that ensures the scanner lid does not touch the artwork. Although it does not offer 3D scanning, its gentle handling is unparalleled.
Price: Between $25,000 and $35,000.
Requirement: Needs to be connected to a PC.

To learn more about the MicroTEK Flatbed Scanner, contact us.

4. HD Apeiron/42 Artwork Scanner

Features: Designed for extremely large documents, this scanner can handle sizes up to 42×60 inches and is contact-free, perfect for large format art or thick, framed items.
Price: Over $50,000.
Suitability: Ideal for entities needing to scan very large artworks or documents with a need for extra care.

To learn more about the HD Apeiron/42 Artwork Scanner, contact us.

Safeguarding Your Valuables with the Right Scanners for Fragile Documents

Selecting the right scanner for fragile documents and artwork is crucial for ensuring their preservation while making them accessible for future generations. Steven Enterprises offers a range of scanners that are specifically designed to meet the needs of various professional environments, from small art studios to large museums.

Need expert guidance on selecting the right scanner?

Contact Steven Enterprises today at (800) 491-8785 for a personalized consultation. Let us assist you in choosing the perfect scanner to support your artwork digitization and document preservation projects.

If you’d prefer to have our team reach out to you, you can also fill out the contact form below.

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Posted on December 27, 2024January 3, 2025 by laylalameijer

Best Large Format Printers for Cities & Government Businesses

As cities and government agencies continue to evolve, so does the need for effective large format printing solutions. While many entities already possess a plotter, not all are optimized for current demands.

Whether it’s upgrading older models or integrating more advanced technology, understanding the best large format printers available is crucial for efficient operation.

In this blog post, we’ll learn from our Certified Large Format printing experts at Steven Enterprises about what the best large format printer models are for cities & other government businesses.

What Large Format Printer Do Most Cities Have?

Well, the first time a city bought a large format plotter dates back to about the 1960s. This is when the first plotter was created, known as a “pen plotter” back then.

Pen plotters are friendly robots from a not so distant past. As Tobias Toft puts it in this article, “they’re the missing link between pencils and laser printers.” Pen Plotters are lovely pieces of high precision technology, using regular pens that are computer-controlled to draw on regular paper with incredible speed and precision.

They would draw blueprints for tweedy engineers and turtlenecked architects back in the 70’s and 80’s, they would draw colorful charts on transparencies for slick investment bankers to present on overhead projectors, and they probably also drew the schematics for the laser- and inkjet printers that replaced them a decade later. While expensive at the time, they were beautifully engineered, high-quality machines, which is still used by some cities around the country.

Once the print head was invented, many cities and state agencies upgraded their large format printing equipment to this faster, more sophisticated technology. Meaning that most now own either a large-format inkjet printer or an LED toner-based printers (depending on their business needs).

READ MORE: Toner vs. Ink Large Format Printers: Cost and Usage Comparison for Businesses

Depending on the size of your operation, you’re likely going to have multiple large-format inkjet printers on-site to be able to keep up with the demand.

What are the common applications for large format printers in government entities?

Back in the day, every plan to build something had to be printed and run through the city for approval. While that’s still true today, most of it has gone digital.

That said, many city planners and state agencies still make heavy use of the large format printers to mark up the blueprints they receive.

Another common application for toner-based printers is to make larger posters to be distributed in city hall or around the city. Since they need to be able to weather the outdoors for longer periods, this higher-quality printing technology is a must.

Reasons to Upgrade Your Plotter

If you’ve had your large format printer for over 5 years, your printer is likely due for an upgrade. The main reason being the quality of the prints you could be getting, but also just out of increased efficiency!

Here are some reasons why it might make sense to upgrade:

Improved printing quality: Not all cities know how much the technology has improved since these original series of the large format inkjets and toner based printers came out. For example, the line printing for blueprints far more crisp and precise. Also, the durability and color consistency of the prints is also night and day from what is used to be!
Faster printing speeds: The best improvement in the technology is the speed. New large format printers need only 1 minute to print out 30 drawings. Older models needed a minimum of 2 minutes. So if your operations ever need to print in bulk, this can be a huge time saver!
Multi-functional machines: The best part about upgrading your large format printer is that the newer models come with a scanner built into it. Since so much of the city planning process is digitized, having the option to scan is great. It’s an easy way to simplify communications with the foreman on the construction job site.
Save costs buying color: If you need options to print in color, the newer models are going to be far cheaper than the old ones. The reason for this is that the older models use dye-based ink. This ink is far more expensive than the pigment ink that the newer plotters use. The pigmented ink is also far more durable (lasting about 6 months outside in the elements vs. max 3 months). As a result, the costs are lower by avoiding reprints!

Top Large Format Printers for Government Businesses in 2025

Every business is different. This is why we highly recommend you book a free consultation with a Steven Enterprises certified printing expert to purchase the right large format printer.

Since we work with many cities and state municipalities, here are the top printers they invest in.

HP 3600/3800 Large Format Printer

Productive, efficient, and secure. The HP DesignJet XL 3600 and HP DesignJet XL 3800 Multifunction printers are the top choice for government businesses.

They keep construction projects moving with the fastest color printer at 6A1/D color pages per minute in its class. Not only is it a fast first page out, it also has excellent color and monochrome print quality.

If your goal is to have a simple and optimized system, this is a great printer to invest in. It includes easy one-click copy and scan workflows, features that reduce your environmental impact. Not to mention, it’s a more compact printer than the older models, providing you additional workspace for other uses.

To learn more about the HP Large format printers, click here.

KIP Black & White Large Format Printer

If you are looking for a more budget-friendly option, the KIP large format printers are also a great option.

KIP is a leading global supplier of digital printing and scanning solutions for color and monochrome wide format documents. Offering an extensive product range that meets the ever-increasing demand for fast, high-quality, cost-effective reproduction.

KIP’s advanced product technology leads the market in performance, reliability, and value with an exceptionally low cost of operation.

Click here to learn more about KIP large format printers.

Need Help Finding the Right Large Format Printer for Your Business?

Investing in a modern large format printer can transform the way cities and government agencies handle their printing needs. From improved operational efficiency to higher quality outputs, the benefits are clear.

If you’re considering upgrading your equipment or need advice on the best model for your specific needs, don’t hesitate to contact Steven Enterprises. Our certified printing experts are here to provide tailored solutions and support. This way ensuring you choose the right printer to meet your city demands!

Visit our website or contact us directly for a free consultation. During out call, you’ll discover how the latest in large format printing technology can benefit your operations.

Category: Printers for Government