When it comes to large format digital printers, costs and revenue are far more important then in the consumer segment so Oce is focusing more on this aspects with its latest Arizona 550 GT UV flatbed printer, built for businesses wanting to make the transition from analog to digital printing.
And since we are talking about a
large format printer, this thing actually comes with some pretty impressive specs, such as the ability of printing more than 100 four by eight foot boards in a single eight-hour shift thanks to its 433 square feet per hour print speeds while also being compatible with a wide variety of rigid substrates up to 49.2 by 98.4 inches in area and up to two inches thick.
Of course, you can also print on flexible media, although you will have to purchase an optional Roll Media add-on that fits substrates up to 86.6 inches wide.
Oce also promises their Arizona 550 GT will save you about 30-40% in costs compared to other UV-flatbed systems, while also adding the capability of printing on irregularly shaped or non-square items, heavy substrates such as glass, or materials that have an uneven surface such as wood.
Another feature touted by Oce is the White Ink printing option that can be used for under-printing, over-printing and spot-printing media with white ink to create all soft of effects, from backlit images to highlighting certain features.
Unfortunately, Oce has not provided us with a starting price for the Arizona 550 GT UV flatbed printer, although I am sure this will carry a hefty price since it's aimed at the high-end
professional market.