Are used plotters right for you?

Written By Eisla Sebastian

Used plotters are a great option for companies that are facing limited equipment budgets, just starting up, or exploring new market niches. Used plotters come in several varieties including CAD drawing plotters, cutting plotters, LED plotters, and electrostatic plotters. While you can save anywhere from 25 to 60 percent by buying your plotters used, you need to examine the plotters carefully before you buy them to make sure you acquire a piece of equipment that will meet your production needs.

General features
There are several key features that you will want to look at when buying used plotters. First, look for the specific plotting features that you are interested in, for example, you can select a plotter that draws or a plotter that cuts. Next you will want to look at the compatibility of the plotter to make sure it will work with your existing equipment and software. Most plotters are compatible with both Macs and PCs, but this may not be a universal trait, so make sure you check with the plotter supplier before you select a unit.

Next you need to make sure that the used plotter is large enough to handle the printing or cutting jobs that are intrinsic to your company's daily operations, and that the used plotter you select has the speed and memory needed to handle the size and complexity of work you need it to do. In addition, look for obvious signs of wear or inexpert repairs. You can't expect a used plotter to be in perfect condition, but neither should it be falling apart.

Beyond the plotter itself
While it is important for you to examine the physical features of used plotters for sale before you buy them, you also need to look at the external features of the used plotter. External features are the features or offers that are provided by the supplier. The most important external feature to look for is some sort of warranty or exchange policy. If your used plotter breaks down, malfunctions or doesn't do what you need it to do, you need to make sure your supplier will allow you to return or exchange your unit.

Another external feature that you will want to look at is the type of supplies your used plotter requires. How easy are they to find, and how much do they cost? Finally, look at the maintenance and service packages that are offered by the supplier. If the supplier doesn't offer a service package that you can subscribe to, then check to see if there are local services that will be able to help you when you need to replace parts or when you need extra technical help.

The supplier you choose to buy a plotter from is key to your long-term satisfaction. Fill out a free price quote request form and get quotes from multiple suppliers of used plotters in your area to make sure you're getting the best deal.