The original "plotter" was a printing machine using a series of stylus tools rather than a digital line-by-line format. Plotters used old programming languages like FORTRAN to create complex graphs and line drawings. The plotter as a printing device didn't have a lot of solid-color printing capability, but used shading techniques for filling solid areas.

Now, as digital printing has flourished, new "plotter" models may use digital technique rather than pen tools, but the idea is largely the same: plotters will deliver large format line drawings for commercial use. Offices use plotters to:

1. Create blueprints, development plans, and all public administration maps larger than 8 1/2 x 11.
2. Advertising mock-ups and model drawings.
3. Product templates to scale and large sheet topographical projects.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Use online search sites for plotter deals

With competitive pricing by multiple dealers, online search sites offer consumer access to a variety of options on hp inkjet plotters, refurbished hp plotters or used hp plotters from different shops. Take advantage of the search technology to compare prices online.

I recommend: BuyerZone helps office managers find HP plotters for sale through its keyword search page. You can get deals on HP plotters at DraftingSteals.com, a comprehensive supply site. For a reseller of HP DesingJet plotter series models, see Avatar Systems, where models are arranged by HP plotter type.

Search large retail sites for deals on HP plotter prices

Product-specific retail sites offer an array of HP inkjet plotters for your shop. Choose from sizes and between color or black and white models.

I recommend: Plotters 4 U operates an extensive site with multiple HP digital plotter models available. This vendor offers extras with every model: warranties, free tech support, a paper supply and other accessories to make your purchase more convenient.

Look for HP plotters

Within the plotter market, HPs come highly rated. Specific sites will cater to clients buying HP plotter models. You can buy HP Plotters new or refurbished to manufacturing specs online.

I recommend: Try HPDesignJetPlotter's product site for deals on refurbished HP plotters, used HP plotters or new models. Key specifications for each model are included in product pages to let you choose the exact capacity of each machine. Some can deliver high-density color: thumbnails and informative setup help you to determine what machine will suit you. Check out HP plotter prices and HP plotter specs on product pages to find what suits your business.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When you are buying a plotter, consider the specific needs of your office. You'll want to make sure the device has the width capacity to churn out the size of maps or prints you want. You also need to determine whether or not color is necessary. Many offices use only a few basic colors to identify features on maps or blueprints while others rely solely on grayscale printing. Make sure you need color before buying, as a lot of cost goes along with it.