The press, which was launched at Viscom Europe in 2008, offers a top print speed of 233sqm an hour at resolutions of up to 360dpi.

It is targeted at the production of billboards, displays and building wraps, and is claimed to output 180sqm from a single litre ink cartridge.

The four-colour UV machine features 16 piezoelectric printheads and can print onto a variety of substrates that include self-adhesive vinyl and uncoated PVC.

The latest enhancements add the ability to print in billboard operation onto a range of banner materials, which could previously only be used for solvent-based printing. According to HP, customers can offer a gloss and matt finish by using the manufacturer's billboard Scitex UV-curable inks.

The new field upgrade, which goes live on September 15, also gives printers access to HP's Scitex print care service package, which offers remote diagnosis.

According to Yariv Avisar, vice president and general manager of HP's Scitex large-format solutions, the latest upgrade package is the result of working with existing users to identify features they require.

"The upgrade package allows our customers to create a competitive advantage with more a productive, cost-effective UV solution that also reduces the impact of printing on the environment," he added.