Co-developed with Memjet and originally presented as a concept (Project Velocity) at Drupa 2012, the device has since been fine-tuned, according to Canon, which claimed it "closes the gap between digital inkjet and offset technology".

The ColorWave 900 uses Memjet printheads and has a print resolution of 1600dpi. It is able to deliver 3.4bn 1.2picolitre ink droplets per second, with a maximum print speed of 1,100m2/h.

The ColorWave 900 is more than four times as fast as Océ’s next quickest wide-format printer, the ColorWave 650.

The device has a 42in (106cm) print width and the capacity for six 200m media rolls, giving it a total input capacity of 1,200m.

According to the manufacturer the ColorWave will suit point-of-sale, exhibition and trade show displays, floor displays and technical drawings and maps.

European production print group director, display graphic systems, Bart Geraads said the device put print service providers "at the "vanguard of wide format printing".

The ColorWave 900 is available to order now with delivery by the end of the year.