Q: Ok still looking into the plotter deal and of course I can't help but look at EBay ..

Any of you have any thoughts?

A: I would be skeptical, while I have no experience with either plotter I can tell you that using a cheaper plotter will only result in more money spent down the line. The plotter ends up becoming your largest tool, with out it you can't cut kits, then you are handcutting while your plotter is being repaired and then you are not as efficient.

I have used the Graphted FC4100-75 for three years now and have never had one problem, I am just now on my third blade, good to change out every year I suspect. It is reliable and well worth the money, plus you can nut tint, vinyl and many other sources of icome. SO can the others, but it is nice to have the reliability.

A: Trying to cut corners and save a couple of bucks doesn't always pay off. I have spent a lot of time with customers who have gone this route only for them to have headache after headache with communication problems from the cpu to the machine (and me absorbing a headache sitting there figuring the dumb thing out), lack of support from the manufacturer, waisted film!!, etc etc. Spend the money, get the warranty, go with a reputible company that has good support. Ask around and see who uses which plotter and why. Most importantly, like with anything else, inspect what you expect...

A: The last two posts offer very sound advice. I am currentlly using the Graphtec FC5100-75. I have had zero problems with it. You may consider offering signs and graphics to your customers to offset the cost of a reputable plotter. This could be pursued in a slow but progressive approach due to the fact that sign software has a learning curve. Examine your market for some type of unique graphic niche. Just some ideas.

A: One other thing to consider before deciding on purchasing a plotter is which software program you plan to use. If you are thinking about using ours, the Graphtec FC Series is a great choice only because we use them too, which means that we can more easily help with any support issues that may arise. If you are thinking about using another program, you may well be able to save some money on a different brand.

I'm all for saving money, but again, you usually don't get much more than what you are willing to pay for. Caveat Emptor!

A: I use a roland 300... its a 30 inch plotter..... I agree with everyone so far..... go with either a graptec or a roland

A: While the plotter is the most expensive tool, it is not the biggest expense. Going with what your software vendor recommends is usually a good idea. It is in their best interest to provide / recommend the 'best' plotter for what you will be using it for.

On a related note. I wonder if the size requirements will grow in the near future as consumers' desire for seamless pieces and the shapes of vehicles change. There are quite a few bumpers out there that don't fit on a 24" roll. Now some of them would be nearly impossible to install if they were seamless and cut on 30 or 36" stock, but who knows.

Seems like the RV's would be bigger pieces, but I don't see our shop doing RV's any time soon... Besides, almost all of the Class A's have it as a factory option anyway.

Just thought I would through that out there for the software people out there.