The HP DesignJet 8000 and 9000 (pictured) were unveiled last week at a press conference in Barcelona. The digital printers are the first machines released since HP's development agreement with Seiko I Infotech last September.

Both are 64in-wide, low-solvent ink machines using piezo ink-jet technology. Earlier this month, PrintWeek revealed the 9000 would be part of HP's plan to expand the range into the outdoor graphics market.

The 8000 prints at speeds of 10sqm per hour while the 9000, based on Seiko's Colorpainter 64s, runs at 20sqm per hour.

The DesignJet 8000 will be available Europe-wide from May while the 9000 comes onto the market on 1 March. In the UK, the products will be distributed by Art Systems with HP yet to decide on re-sellers. A final decision is likely to be made next month.

"There is demand for more accomplished graphics in the outdoor and signs market," said HP vice president and general manager for large format Enrique Lores.

HP believes that both machines can fill gaps in the low- and mid-volume markets. It has also said it is not abandoning development of thermal technology but added that the piezo printheads worked best with solvent inks.

At the press conference, HP also unveiled the DesignJet 4500 series for the technical markets.

Designjet specifications

Designjet 8000
- Print head: 1,524 nozzle piezo

- Print speed: 10sqm per hour

DesignJet 9000
- Printhead: 3,072 nozzle piezo

- Print speed: 20sqm per hour