Dec 15, 2016 Plotters and Cutting Systems for PPF, Vinyl and Window Film.
PPF PlottersQ: Ok still looking into the plotter deal and of course I can't help but look at EBay.Any of you have any thoughts?A: I would be skeptical, while I have no experience with either plotter I can tell you that using a cheaper plotter will only result in more money spent down the line. The plotter ends up becoming your largest tool, with out it you can't cut kits, then you are handcutting while your plotter is being repaired and then you are not as efficient.I have used the Graphted FC4100-75 for three years now and have never had one problem, I am just now on my third blade, good to change out every year I suspect. It is reliable and well worth the money, plus you can nut tint, vinyl and many other sources of icome. SO can the others, but it is nice to have the reliability.A: Trying to cut corners and save a couple of bucks doesn't always pay off. I have spent a lot of time with customers who have gone this route only for them to have headache after headache with communication problems from the cpu to the machine (and me absorbing a headache sitting there figuring the dumb thing out), lack of support from the manufacturer, waisted film!!, etc etc. Spend the money, get the warranty, go with a reputible company that has good support. Ask around and see who uses which plotter and why.
Most importantly, like with anything else, inspect what you expect.A: The last two posts offer very sound advice. I am currentlly using the Graphtec FC5100-75. I have had zero problems with it.
You may consider offering signs and graphics to your customers to offset the cost of a reputable plotter. This could be pursued in a slow but progressive approach due to the fact that sign software has a learning curve. Examine your market for some type of unique graphic niche. Just some ideas.A: One other thing to consider before deciding on purchasing a plotter is which software program you plan to use.
If you are thinking about using ours, the Graphtec FC Series is a great choice only because we use them too, which means that we can more easily help with any support issues that may arise. If you are thinking about using another program, you may well be able to save some money on a different brand.I'm all for saving money, but again, you usually don't get much more than what you are willing to pay for. Caveat Emptor!A: I use a roland 300. Its a 30 inch plotter. I agree with everyone so far. Go with either a graptec or a rolandA: While the plotter is the most expensive tool, it is not the biggest expense. Going with what your software vendor recommends is usually a good idea.
It is in their best interest to provide / recommend the 'best' plotter for what you will be using it for.On a related note. I wonder if the size requirements will grow in the near future as consumers' desire for seamless pieces and the shapes of vehicles change. There are quite a few bumpers out there that don't fit on a 24' roll. Now some of them would be nearly impossible to install if they were seamless and cut on 30 or 36' stock, but who knows.Seems like the RV's would be bigger pieces, but I don't see our shop doing RV's any time soon. Besides, almost all of the Class A's have it as a factory option anyway.Just thought I would through that out there for the software people out there.
Computer Cutting Patterns, No Cutting On The Caruses integrative computer software to implement computer cutting patterns, which means no cutting on the car. Check back on this page soon for more information and a video demonstrating our computer cutting in action. What is ComputerCut?ComputerCut is the world's only Internet based computer window tinting, Clearshield and graphics program. Our dealers use our proprietary software to access our database of auto window and Clearshield templates, decals, and graphics over the Internet and cut them using a vinyl cutting plotter.
ComputerCut is also an entry-level sign and graphics program where we design images for our dealers. They just cut and install them.
What can ComputerCut do?Pre-cut auto window and Clearshield templates, pre-cut flat glass window templates, contoured front windshield sunstrips, window decals, magnetic signs, pre-cut security film, windshield lettering, vehicle lettering, banners, auto graphics, and window lettering. What can ComputerCut do for your business?Increase business, increase customer satisfaction, set you apart from the competition, create other income opportunities, make your shop more productive, impress customers, appeal to auto dealerships, increase resale value, create Internet opportunities and increase do-it-yourself business. Does ComputerCut eliminate all cutting?No. It eliminates over 90% of all cutting. While in most cases it does an acceptable micro-edge, if you want an absolute perfect micro-edge you will have to slide the film up over the top edge of the glass and trim. It allows enough film on the bottom for you to do this.
Some windows where the hard rubber weather-stripping meets the clear portion of the glass such as quarter windows and truck rear windows the templates are oversized slightly and will need to be trimmed. Some windows with hardware may need to be cut.We recommend not using AOL. Their type of connection tends to interfere with the functionality of the program.Decide whether you would like a broadband or dial-up connection. Broadband connections are much faster and more convenient - you won't have to dial-up each time you need to get on-line and downloads are much faster. Although broadband access is a bit more expensive, the increased cost is more than justified by speed and convenience.If you think you will be traveling frequently, you should make sure that your provider has a Toll Free number so that you can access the Internet from wherever you are. Does it have all cars?At the present time we have over 90% of the most common cars and we are adding new ones every day. It is for this reason that ComputerCut is offered over the Internet.
We are able to add new vehicles, decals, and images without the dealers having to download and install them. The Internet also gives us the ability to make instant changes or create graphics for our dealers, and have them available instantly.