What is it?
Epson’s new wide-format printer, the SureColor SC-S30600, is the start of a new dawn, according to Epson, with the machine aimed at companies producing signage and point-of-sale (POS).
When was it launched?
Epson unveiled this latest wide-format printer at Fespa Digital in Barcelona in February. The machine was on show at Drupa 2012. The first three shipments of the SC-30600 to Australia have sold out since the printer’s successful launch in April, and more are on the way, says Heckenberg.
What does it do?
Speeds of the 1,626mm model range from 7.3m2/hr in high-quality mode up to 29.4m2/hr in production operation. There is also a maximum quality mode for the close-inspection work, which uses the printer’s full resolution of 1,440×1,440dpi. Epson says its SC-S30600 enables firms to print a range of applications, including posters, signs, banners, back-lit panels, vehicle wraps, interior decorations and exhibition displays. It supports a range of substrates, including PVC, vinyl, photo paper and banner materials.
How does it work?
The SureColor SC-S30600 employs Epson’s latest micropiezo TFP printheads and newly developed inkset, UltraChrome GS2. “UltraChrome GS2 builds on the strengths of Epson’s UltraChrome GS with a new high performance yellow formulation that is lightfast for up to three years without lamination, while still capable of reproducing a broad colour range for precise colour matching,” says Craig Heckenberg, business unit manager at Epson Australia. UltraChrome GS2 is an odourless, nickel-free and requires no special ventilation, which permits the SC-S30600 to be used in an office environment, according to Epson.
What markets is it aimed at?
The manufacturer is pitching the four-colour printer at commercial printers, signmakers, digital copy shops and repro centres wanting to expand their wide-format offering.
“Our customers can expect the highest image quality possible at prices never before seen in POS and signage. Speed, quality, cost and functionality make this our most advanced large format printer,” says Heckenberg.
How easy is it to use?
“Setting up the SC-S30600 is fast and easy. Loading heavy media rolls – usually
a two-person job – can be handled by one operator with ease. Media tensioning, traditionally only accessible from the front of the printer, is controllable from both front and rear, so operators don’t waste time going back and forth,” he says.
How much does it cost?
The Epson SureColor SC-S30600 is available for $17,995 ex GST. Potential customers should get in touch with Epson to get the full picture.
What are its sales targets?
Heckenberg says the response from the Australian and New Zealand markets had been very strong since the first shipment arrived in April with demand outpacing supply. “I expect SureColor to become our best-selling large-format range ever.”
Specs
Max print width
1,626mm (64in)
Max speed
29.4m2/hour
Resolution
1,440dpi
Printheads
MicroPiezo Advanced TFP
Weight
219kg
Price
$17,995 ex GST
Contact
www.epson.com.au
The Alternatives
Mimaki CJV30-160
The 1.6m variant of the award-winning Mimaki CJV30 Series is a suitable alternative. It comes with a built-in cutting plotter, the ability to print eight colours and is capable of printing at 17.5m2/hr at 540x720dpi.
Max print width 1,620mm (63.3in)
Max speed 17.5m2/hr
Resolution 1,440dpi
Printheads Piezoelectric inkjet
Weight 160kg
Contact DGS Mimaki (02) 4272 3663 www.dgsmimaki.com.au
Roland DG RS-640
The Roland DG RS-640 has been something of a success story for the wide-format manufacturer. The entry-level wide-format machine supports a range of substrates for both indoor and outdoor applications.
Max print width 1,626mm (64in)
Max speed 21m2/hr
Resolution 1,440dpi
Printheads Piezoelectric inkjet
Weight 133kg
Contact Roland DG (02) 9975 0000 rolanddg.com.au
UPDATE: Roland DG Australia has informed us that the RS-640 has been discontinued and a more relevant alternative machine would be the four-colour, eco-solvent inkjet Roland VersaArt RE-640, which has a max speed of 23.1sqm per hour.
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