A PageWide device was previewed last month, but further details were subject to an embargo that was lifted today.
HP believes the technology is capable of “disrupting” some areas of production printing due to its high speed and low running costs.
The family of four models spans print speeds from eight A1/min to 30 A1/min, with a print width of one metre (40in). The printers are fitted with eight 5in-wide printheads.
The entry-level XL 4000 (8xA1ppm) and XL4500 (12xA1ppm) models are aimed at enterprise environments such as design and engineering departments. They have two media drawers and an integrated scanner for users who require a scan-to-print workflow.
The XL 5000 (14xA1ppm) and XL 8000 (30xA1ppm) are targeted at production environments. The XL 8000 has three media drawers and can automatically switch between up to six rolls of media.
A high-capacity online folder and high-capacity online stacker are also planned for the devices.
Thomas Valjak, EMEA general manager of HP’s large-format design business, said: “At 23 linear metres per minute, these printers are 60% faster than current mono LED printers on the market. But we can add colour with no reduction in speed or quality.”
The XL 8000 ships in September, and the XL 5000 in November, while the entry-level 4000 and 4500 are scheduled to ship in January 2016.
HP’s target applications include short-run promotional posters, technical prints such as maps, and architectural and engineering drawings.
Pricing for the new devices has not yet been released.
“We are working hard to make it very appealing and a very attractive cost,” Valjak added.
Phil Oakley, UK and Ireland country manager for large-format design printing solutions, said PageWide printers would be able to produce full-colour prints for the same sort of cost as existing mono CAD plotters.
“For 100% coverage we are talking about £1.20/sqm on PageWide,” he stated.
“Customers are looking for more versatility and transparency about how they want to be charged for service, supplies, and the machine,” Oakley added. “The epiphany for customers is utility-based pricing, and this has the flexibility to achieve that.”
The new devices will be sold via certified resellers. HP has appointed Stanford Marsh and Perfect Colours in the UK, and Diatec in Ireland.
HP also announced a number of upgrades to its existing large-format printer range at this week’s Sign Expo in Las Vegas.
The HP Latex 370 is an upgrade to the 360 model fitted with seven, three-litre ink cartridges for heavy-duty users. A new mobile app also allows for unattended operation/
The HP Scitex FB550 and FB750 models promise a 12% increase in productivity on indoor signage than earlier models, along with a new tabletop roll holder.
And the HP Scitex 11000 industrial printer now comes with a ‘Smart Coat’ option for better surface durability, while the 15500 corrugated device has a new ‘Corrugated Grip’ facility for improved media handling.
