The Basics
Looking to upgrade your print capabilities? This blog will guide you through everything you need to know about large-format printers — from choosing the right model for your business needs to understanding key features like media handling, resolution, and cost of ownership. Whether you’re printing architectural drawings, engineering plans, or full-color marketing banners, you’ll discover top recommended devices and why partnering with Associated Business Technologies in Salt Lake City ensures long-term success.
When your business needs to go big, a standard printer simply won’t cut it. Whether you’re producing architectural drawings, engineering plans, eye-catching posters, or vibrant marketing banners, a large-format printer gives you the size, detail, and flexibility you need — right from your own office in Salt Lake City.
At Associated Business Technologies, we help you find the perfect large-format printer for your specific needs. With expert service, reliable toner and ink supply, and professional support, we’re here to ensure you get the most from your investment.
What Is a Large Format Printer?
A large-format printer, often called a wide-format printer, is designed to handle media that goes well beyond traditional 8.5×11 or 11×17 paper. These machines can print on sheets or rolls up to 24, 36, 44, or even 60 inches wide, making them ideal for:
- Construction drawings and blueprints
- CAD and GIS outputs
- Posters, signs, and banners
- Trade show graphics
- Retail displays
- Fine art and photography reproductions
By bringing this capability in-house, you reduce outsourcing costs, shorten turnaround times, and maintain greater control over your quality and branding.
Key Benefits of In-House Wide Format Printing
You’ll immediately notice how much easier it is to manage deadlines when you don’t have to rely on third-party print shops. Large-format printers give your team the power to:
- Print on demand without waiting days for a delivery
- Make quick revisions to designs and produce updated plans or visuals instantly
- Control quality and branding with consistent colors, layout, and finishes
- Save money long-term by eliminating the markup of outsourced jobs
Whether you’re in architecture, engineering, design, marketing, or any visual industry, a wide-format printer helps you deliver big ideas faster and with more control.
What to Look for in a Large Format Printer
Choosing the right device is all about matching your printing needs with the right specs. Here’s what you should evaluate:
1. Print Width and Media Handling
Start by thinking about the maximum width you’ll need. Standard sizes are 24″, 36″, and 44″, but there are options both smaller and larger depending on your use case. Some printers also support dual-roll feeds for uninterrupted, high-volume printing.
2. Print Resolution and Image Quality
If you’re producing detailed CAD drawings, technical precision is critical. For high-end graphics or color posters, you’ll want a printer with excellent resolution and color calibration. Look for devices that support high DPI (dots per inch) and pigment-based inks for sharp results.
3. Speed and Volume
How often do you need to print, and how fast does your team need output? If you’re in a fast-paced environment — such as construction or architecture — you’ll benefit from faster print speeds and larger paper capacity. For high-volume marketing or signage needs, a printer with automated finishing options can save hours of labor.
4. Media Versatility
Do you plan to print on vinyl, canvas, poster board, or photo paper? Choose a printer that can handle a variety of media types and finishes. Flexibility in media handling ensures your investment supports your evolving needs.
5. Software Compatibility and Workflow Integration
Ensure the printer works with your current software — whether it’s AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, or GIS tools. Look for intuitive print drivers and cloud-based solutions that streamline your workflow.
6. Total Cost of Ownership
Upfront cost is just one part of the equation. You’ll want to consider the long-term cost of ink or toner, maintenance, and replacement parts. This is where Associated Business Technologies can help you with service agreements and affordable toner supply plans that lower your ongoing expenses.
Recommended Large Format Printers for Your Salt Lake City Business
Here are a few standout models we recommend, each ideal for different business types:
Perfect for small offices and entry-level wide-format printing. It’s compact, affordable, and ideal for occasional CAD drawings or poster prints.
- Ideal for: Architects, engineers, startups
- Pros: Compact design, easy setup, economical
- Print width: 24 inches
If your business frequently prints technical drawings or engineering plans, this monochrome powerhouse is a great fit. Dual-roll capability means fewer interruptions and faster output.
- Ideal for: Construction, engineering, utilities
- Pros: High-speed output, reliable mono performance
- Print width: 36 inches
KIP 860 (36” Color with Scanner)
For businesses that require full-color output along with scanning capabilities, the KIP 860 is a serious solution. It’s built for high-volume workflows with beautiful color accuracy.
- Ideal for: AEC firms, print shops, design studios
- Pros: Integrated scanner, vivid color prints, robust build
- Print width: 36 inches
Formax ColorMax 8 and ColorMax 9
These production-level color printers are designed for marketing departments, sign makers, or any organization that prints large quantities of vibrant, high-impact graphics.
- Ideal for: Print-for-pay shops, marketing teams
- Pros: High-speed output, full-color brilliance, media versatility
- Print widths vary
How to Choose the Right Model
Your best option depends on what you plan to print. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Technical prints only (CAD, blueprints): HP DesignJet or KIP 7170
- High-volume mixed use (color + mono): KIP 860
- Graphics and signage: Formax ColorMax series
- Low-volume, general use: HP DesignJet T210
Still not sure which model fits your workflow? Our team at Associated Business Technologies will walk you through every option and even demo select devices in person.
Why Partner with Associated Business Technologies?
Choosing the right printer is only the beginning. When you work with us, you also get:
- Expert guidance to match the right model to your exact needs
- On-site service and repairs from experienced technicians
- Toner and ink supply always on hand, so you avoid delays
- Flexible leasing and purchasing options to fit your budget
- Support across Salt Lake City and beyond, whether you’re in Ogden, Provo, or the Wasatch Front
We’ve helped countless businesses in Utah build smarter, more efficient print environments. We’re ready to do the same for you.
Ready to Print Big?
When you need big results, trust a local partner that understands your needs and delivers dependable solutions. Whether you’re printing blueprints, banners, or fine-art graphics, Associated Business Technologies is here to help you take control of your wide-format printing — and your bottom line.
Contact us todaya to schedule a demo or get a custom quote tailored to your business.
