AEC Tech Articles

Will the HP 1050c plotter finally go away?

Written by Kevin Vaughan | Mon, Dec 16, 2019 @ 03:00 AM

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For many businesses, the HP Designjet 1050 plotter was a reliable workhorse, but as technology advances, so must your equipment. While the Designjet 1050 was a significant success for HP, it's now time to consider an upgrade. In this guide, we'll explore the benefits of moving on from legacy equipment and how TAVCO can assist you in this transition.

 

End-of-Life Challenges with the HP 1050c

 


See the new Canon plotters that are perfect upgrades for the HP 1050 printer


The HP 1050c plotter, once a staple in many offices, has long reached its end-of-life phase. Here are some critical points to consider:

 

  • Parts and Support: HP has ceased manufacturing this model, and parts are scarce. You might find yourself relying on expensive aftermarket solutions or scavenged parts, which can be costly in the long run.

  • Software Updates: The lack of new drivers and software support can hinder your ability to upgrade your operating systems. This limitation can affect your workflow, particularly if you work with complex BIM applications.

  • Ink Costs: As the number of units decreases, the cost of ink is expected to rise, impacting your operational costs.

 

Solution: Transitioning to a modern plotter is essential. TAVCO offers comprehensive plotter repair and service to support your outdated equipment while you plan your upgrade.



 

The Impact of Outdated Technology

At over 20 years old, the HP 1050c is far from the cutting-edge technology of today's large-format printers. Here are some usability concerns:

 

  • Processing Power: The onboard processor struggles with modern file sizes, potentially leading to crashes and reboots.

  • Speed: By today's standards, the HP plotter is extremely slow, which can significantly impact your productivity.

 

Recommendation: Consider upgrading to a new, efficient model. TAVCO can guide you through the process to ensure a seamless transition. Discover TAVCO's solutions for modern plotters that efficiently meet your high-volume printing requirements.



Usability Concerns

Since the HP 1050c is over 15 years old, its technology is no longer comparable to the cutting-edge power of today's large-format printers. Users may experience issues when printing from newer applications.


  • The onboard processor is not capable of handling the complexities of some larger, more modern files produced by applications such as Revit and ESRI GIS.

  • Large files can crash it and force the user to reboot.

  • The HP plotter is extremely slow by today’s standards.

HP 1050c vs Canon TM-305 - By the Numbers

Model HP 1050c Canon TM-355
Year Introduced 2001 2023
Width  36 inches 36 inches
Max Resolution 600 x 600 dpi 2400 x 1200 dpi
Memory 64/256 MB 128 GB
Hard Drive 2 GB 500 GB
Max Speed - Color 200 square feet per hour ~1,152 square feet per hour
Ink Type Dye/ Pigment Black Pigment (All Colors)
Number of Ink Colors 4 (CMYK) 5 (CMYKmK)
Print Head HP-80 PF-06 (single print head)
Total Print Head Nozzle Count 2,048 nozzles 15,360 nozzles
Ink Drop Size  18pl MK/ 5pl (CMY) 5pl (All colors)
Minimum Line Weight 1 / 600" 1 / 1200"
Print Languages HP-GL/2, TIFF,  CALS, G4 SGRaster, HP-GL/2, HPRTL, JPEG, PDF
Floor Space Required 61" x 27" 51" x 35" 
Power Consumption 200 watts 69 watts

Pictured: Canon TM-305 printer

 

Embrace Modern Plotting Technology

Transitioning to a new plotter doesn't just solve the problems of outdated technology; it opens up new possibilities for your business:

 

  • Improved Workflow: Modern plotters offer faster speeds and enhanced capabilities for handling large files from applications like Revit and ESRI GIS.

  • Seamless Integration: Upgrade your old plotter with models that easily integrate with current software, enhancing productivity and reducing downtime.

  • Cost Efficiency: While the initial investment is necessary, the long-term savings on maintenance, support, and supplies can be significant.

 

Don't let aging plotter equipment slow down your operations. Explore TAVCO's AI Vectorize service to convert traditional drawings to digital formats and streamline your CAD workflow.

 

You Can Count on TAVCO

In the complex landscape of AEC, you need a vendor as committed to quality and reliability as you are. TAVCO brings you just that—with high-performance tools like our durable large-format plotters, cutting-edge 3D scanners, and innovative software solutions. 

 

We build long-term relationships fortified by unwavering support and innovative solutions that keep you ahead of the curve. Plus, when you have questions or need advice—including cost-effective options—you can always speak directly with a live TAVCO specialist, not a bot or an automated attendant.

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Ready to take the next step? Chat with a TAVCO specialist today to tailor solutions for your unique needs.

🛒 Or explore our range of products at www.tavcotech.com.

 

 

 Editor’s note: This post was originally published in 2012 and updated in 2019.