HP T2600 Large Format Printer Archives

For Architecture and Engineering (AEC) firms, the cost of large format printing supplies can be a significant expense. Ranging anywhere from a couple hundred dollars per month to well into the tens of thousands.

However, a little-known fact could change the game: the model of your large format printer directly influences your printer supply costs.

Lower-model printers often have higher ink costs, whereas higher-model printers can dramatically reduce these expenses.

For most Architecture Engineering (AEC) firms, this calculation is carefully done by a specialized printing expert during their purchase. But as the firm grows and expands, savings could be missed.

In this blog post, we’ll review examples of how AEC firms can save big on their large format printing supplies if they were to consult a Plotter Expert about trading in their old printer for a higher model.

The Impact of Large Format Printer Models on Printer Supplies Costs

The large format printers are designed with efficiency in mind: the more advanced the model, the more cost-effective the printing.

This means that investing in a higher-model printer can lead to substantial savings on ink and other supplies in the long run.

Understanding the Cost Differences

Let’s break down the potential savings through two scenarios within an average-sized AEC firm, highlighting the difference in large format printing supplies costs between lower and higher-level printer models.

Scenario 1: Lower Model Printer = Higher Large Format Printing Supplies Costs

Let’s say your firm decided to buy the HP Z-series printer, which was the more affordable printer at the time. Every month you print roughly 50K prints overall, which is pretty standard for a medium-sized AEC firm.

Since each type of print has a different ink cost, let’s say your AEC firm did the following volume of prints:

40% low-density prints (20K prints)
30% mono line prints (15K prints)
25% color lines (12.5K prints)
5% high-density prints (2,500 prints)

= 50K prints per month

Let’s calculate a rough monthly investment in your large format printing supplies:

20K low-density prints x $0.2/print = $4000
15K mono line prints x $0.03/print = $450
12.5K color lines x $0.03/print = $375
2.5K high-density prints x $0.46/print = $1,150

= $5,975 per month in printing supplies

Scenario 2: Higher Model Printer = Lower Large Format Printing Supplies Costs

Now, let’s say you purchased the Pagewide Pro 10,000 to be more aligned with your printing needs (after speaking to a printing specialist, of course).

In this scenario, your cost for ink will drop significantly because you went with the higher-level printer. Assuming your printing volume stays the same, here’s the new calculation:

20K low-density prints x $0.2/print = $4000
15K mono line prints x $0.03/print = $450
12.5K color lines x $0.03/print = $375
2.5K high-density prints x $0.46/print = $1,150

= $619.50 per month in printing supplies

Switching over to the higher model printer could end up saving this business almost $65,000 per year in print supply costs. This means that in a matter of months, this upgrade will be more than paid for!

Calculating Your Possible Savings on Large Format Printing Supplies

Many different AEC firms stand to save a ton of money in their monthly expenses if they were to run this calculation for their firm.

In the examples above, we’re comparing a top-of-the-line model to a lower-level model for a relatively high printing volume to demonstrate the possibilities.

Broadly speaking, AEC firms spending around $5,000 monthly on printer supplies (or printing about 10K square feet per month) could see significant savings by upgrading their printers.

Want to see how much you can save? Make a copy of our Ink Costs Calculator to input your printing volume and see your monthly & annual savings.

The Added Benefits of Upgrading Your Printer

Upgrading your printer is not just about saving on supplies. Newer models often require less maintenance, use ink more efficiently, and can enhance your team’s productivity by reducing downtime.

Print shops, architecture firms, and engineering firms who bought their printers over 3 years ago now likely have way better printer models they could be using.

Ask yourself: What could this increase in productivity and efficiency mean for your firm?

Printer Upgrades We Commonly Recommend

At Steven Enterprises, we understand the true cost of ownership extends beyond the initial purchase. This is why we provide unprecedented value in our comprehensive plotter maintenance & supplies offers post-purchase.

The HP Pagewide series, for instance, offers larger ink cartridges the higher model you buy, resulting in fewer replacements and more savings. For example, the newer inks are coming in 1-5 liter ink cartridges vs. 775ml in the older models. This means the ink cartridge is 5x larger than before, adding up to significant savings if your firm is printing the right volume.

Get a Free Plotter Consultation with a Printing Expert

Understanding the specific needs and printing volume of your firm is crucial in choosing the right printer model.

Our printer equipment specialists are here to guide you through this process, ensuring you invest in a printer that not only meets your current needs but also provides significant long-term savings.

Ready to explore how much you could save with a printer upgrade?

Either fill out this form or speak to an expert right away by calling 800-491-8785.

In the bustling world of movie production, where the artistry of set design and the vibrancy of movie posters come to life, the importance of selecting the right large format printer cannot be overstated.

At Steven Enterprises, we understand the unique needs of movie studios, art directors, and production assistants.

Our expertise has made us a trusted ally in the film industry, providing not just printers but comprehensive solutions for shows, set designs, and even the occasional scene poster.

In this blog post, we’ll explain what you need to watch out for when buying a printer for your movie set and which printers we recommend to our clients.

Essential Considerations for Your Movie Studio’s Printer Purchase

The role of an Art Director encompasses numerous responsibilities, among which making cost-effective yet efficient decisions about production tools is paramount.

A wrong choice in your large format printer can lead to increased costs in plotter supplies, and delays due to plotter repairs, affecting your project’s budget and timeline drastically.

1. Movie Set Space Efficiency is Key

Space on set is often limited, and in places like Warner Brother’s Studios or a quaint set in Los Angeles, this constraint is even more pronounced.

The HP T2600 large format printer stands out as the ideal “multifunctional printer” for such environments.

Although it’s a compact design, it offers both scanning and printing capabilities. For movie sets with diverse needs of from their production teams, this is a crucial feature to not overlook.

2. The Advantage of Local Printer Suppliers & Repairs

Opting for a cheaper, international printer might seem like a good idea initially, but the long-term implications could be detrimental.

The complexity of large format printers makes them prone to issues.

A local supplier near your movie set ensures your team can get swift repairs and supply restocks, minimizing downtime for your filming days.

For those in Southern California, especially in Los Angeles County, Steven Enterprises offers next-day services and a dedicated Account Specialist to ensure your production runs smoothly.

3. Benefits of Renting over Buying Plotters

Not every movie studio needs a permanent printing solution.

For temporary needs, such as during the production phase, renting a printer can be a more viable option.

This flexibility is something we provide at Steven Enterprises, alongside hassle-free pickup services post-production, allowing you to focus on the more critical aspects of your project.

Best Printer for Movie Studios in 2024

The production of a movie or show demands a versatile printer capable of handling a wide array of tasks. For example, printing scripts and call sheets, creating stunning set designs, and printing promotional materials.

Our expert printing specialists recommend the HP T2600 for its unparalleled efficiency and versatility on set.

Benefits of the HP T2600 for Movie Sets

Collaboration and Efficiency: Engineered to manage multiple jobs simultaneously without creating a bottleneck.
Fast Prints: With printing speeds up to 180 D/hr, this printer makes it easy to print call sheets in minutes.
Ease of Use: Features like automatic print stacking and dual rolls simplify operation for everyone on set.
Security: With HP Secure Boot and whitelisting, your sensitive movie and show production information remains protected.
Quality and Versatility: Delivers precise drafts and vibrant 3D renders with HP Bright Office Inks, catering to all your set design needs.

Alternative Printer For Marketing and Promotional Materials

Now, this is likely not your role but you might benefit from knowing it. When your marketing team is ready to begin promotions, we have a different recommendation.

When the time comes to market your movie, the HP Z-Series printers emerge as the superior choice for printing marketing materials, thanks to their fine art printing capabilities.

For outdoor posters, consider the Canon Colorado, known for its durable prints that withstand the elements, perfect for outdoor promotions.

Why Partner with Steven Enterprises?

For over three generations, Steven Enterprises has stood by the Southern California movie production industry, providing everything from plotter supplies and equipment to repair services and expert consultations.

Our dedication to delivering top-notch large-format printing and scanning solutions makes us the ideal partner. We often work with art directors, production assistants, and movie producers seeking excellence.

Need help choosing the right printer for your movie set?

We’re here to ensure you have the best tools at your disposal. In addition, we’ll also make sure you have the right support for supplies and repairs.

Contact us today by filling out this form or call us at 800-491-8785 to get the right printing solution for your movie set.

Tag: HP T2600 Large Format Printer

How AEC Firms Can Maximize Savings on Large Format Printing Supplies