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If you think speed = performance, think again. There are many
more variables, which when added to speed gives best performance.
Let’s see how.
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What is the aim of high-speed machines? The answer is obvious – optimum
production in terms of quantity in a particular time frame. But, the biggest
challenge is to achieve the optimum out of the installed capacity itself. Many of
you would say that to achieve higher turnaround, highspeed
machines are a must. It is right to an extent but it
is equally important to ensure the existing machines are
running to the maximum level.
So, how can one ensure the machines run at their
optimum level? First and foremost, the job should be
readily available in the printable format and so should
be the media, ink, etc. The pre-press work should be
completed beforehand and no changes should be made
at the last hour. To reduce downtime, it is also necessary to use appropriate
quality of consumables (ink, media, etc) specified by machine manufacturer.
This will ensure that the printer runs smoothly and breakdowns are
minimised. Sometimes, simply the machine cannot be run as the operator
is missing or there is power breakdown (with no back-up) and such instances
need to be minimised. Only when all these parameters are taken care of,
we can say that we have achieved optimum level and are utilising our
capacities to their full.
At this stage, if we feel that we are still not able to meet the required deadlines,
then it is a good time for fresh investments. One way is to install a similar kind
of machine and the other is to go for a higher-speed machine. The decision
depends on individual preferences, customers’ requirements and one’s own
investment capacity.
In this era of faster and faster output, the recent introduction comes from HP,
which has recently introduced HP Designjet Z6100 printer series, allowing
PSPs to print large format signs and banners, etc at speeds (1000 sq ft/hr) up
to twice as fast as other printers in its category. Many more such machines
would definitely follow. The investment in these machines can become more
meaningful when other supporting processes are run equally fast. So, to reap
the benefits of faster machines, the sign manufacturers have to literally pull
up their socks to make all the processes faster. And then, they can fully utilise
the high speed of their machines, resulting in meeting tighter deadlines with
greater output, resulting into the best return on investment (ROI).
