10 Questions You Should to Know about cutting plotter machine

I need a plotter for printing blueprints 80% of the time. I need a cutter for cutting single use stencils out of oil-board 10% of the time and the remaining 10% will be miscellaneous vinyl & signs. I expect to be plotting an average of 5-10 blueprint pages per week on average. This is expected initial use which could be more vinyl in the future.

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My question is what resolution can be printed using the pen when using the cutters as a plotter? How small a character can be printed? 3/32”, 1/16”, 1/32”

Also, when a customer sends me a blueprint in pdf format, will I be able to convert it to what is needed for plotting with the Sure Cuts-A-Lot Pro or will I need a secondary program for file conversion? What is the learning curve on the software? I use AutoCad but have not previously used graphic drawing programs. What accessories will I need to get (adapters, cables, software etc)?

I am looking at the SC, PCut, LaserPoint II or TC units or maybe the Copam model. Of these, which model would be ideal and what would be the advantage of spending the extra $$ for the Copam model?

Most of what you are asking will depend on the pen that is used. The pen holder that came with my cutter uses cheap pen refills that are not dependable. They skip all the time. Where I work, we purchased a flatbed plotter for plotting blueprints that uses Fisher Space Pen refills. I haven't seen a holder for these cutters that utilized the Fisher refills.

As for accuracy, is there a tolerance range you need to stay within? We use our plots for inspection of parts so they need to be +/- .010" over 8 feet. If they just will be used to read you should be OK until you get down to the 1/32' text. That is getting pretty small for most machines even the one we have at work.

PDF files can be in different formats. You can scan an image to PDF in which case you will not be able to cut it directly from the file. If they were printed to PDF from a CAD system that could even have it's challenges. Text usually is not lines so it will want to cut the outline of them. Depending on the software you use, even the lines may do the same thing.

Most of the programs are not that complicated. If you can learn AutoCAD, they shouldn't be a problem. The main thing is cutters work from Vector images. If your files aren't vector, you will have to turn them into vector format. Most cutter programs can turn a raster file to vector (vectorize) but some do a much better job than others.

The difference between the cutters you mention will be in build quality that translates somewhat to accuracy in the Copam. If you want better accuracy, look for a cutter that uses servo motors instead of stepper motors. Servo motors have an infinite number of stop locations per rotation where stepper motors have a finite number of stops giving you less accuracy. All of the cutters you mentioned use stepper motors.

A vinyl cutter roll machine is an indispensable piece of equipment for creative individuals, professional designers, and entrepreneurs. This versatile machine can handle various materials beyond vinyl, including reflective materials and thick laminates. . A top-notch vinyl cutting machine like the Summa S3 offers the precision and versatility you need to go from idea to finished project.

When you're looking for the right vinyl roll cutter, there are some key items you want to keep in mind. First, consider the machine's cutting force, speed, and precision because these will directly affect how efficiently you can work. Also, don't forget to check which design software the machine uses because this will shape the projects you can tackle. 

Let's take a closer look at the factors you should consider:

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Cutting Force

A machine with ample cutting force can handle various types of vinyl, from thin films to thicker, textured sheets. Cutting force is usually measured in grams of force (GF), ranging from low values like fifty GF for more delicate materials to high values like 500 GF or more for thicker and more robust materials. 

Determine the vinyl thickness and durability you'll be working with regularly. Though it might be tempting to select the most powerful machine, there's no need to over-invest in cutting force if you're primarily dealing with standard vinyl types.

Precision and Accuracy

Precision and accuracy should be top of mind if your projects involve detailed designs or fine cuts. The quality of the cutting head, the sharpness and condition of the blade, and the machine's mechanical stability all play crucial roles. 

The calibration process is also an important, but often overlooked, factor that can greatly influence your long-term satisfaction with the device. Calibration ensures that your machine's hardware and software are in perfect harmony, leading to precise and consistent cuts. 

Some advanced machines offer self-calibration features that simplify the setup, whereas others might require more manual input. Knowing what to expect regarding calibration can save you both time and frustration.

Software Compatibility and Flexibility

Software can shape your user experience and the range of design options you can explore. Make sure the software is not only feature-rich but also compatible with your operating system. 

The downside of complex software is that it can be overwhelming for beginners. Opt for a machine that offers software with both basic and advanced modes so you can grow into the complexities.

Not only should the software be compatible with your computer's operating system, but it should also be able to import or handle the types of files you commonly work with. Explore software features like nesting, which allows you to optimize material use by automatically arranging cuts to minimize waste. Check if the software allows third-party plugins or add-ons, which can substantially extend your design capabilities in the future.

Ease of Use

If ease of use is your top priority, you might want to lean toward models that feature self-calibration. These advanced machines have built-in sensors and software algorithms that automatically adjust to optimize performance. This is especially handy if you plan to work with different types of vinyl or varying roll sizes because the machine will adjust to the specific material without your intervention.

If you are particular about the details and want more hands-on control, a vinyl cutter requiring manual calibration might be more up your alley. With these machines, you'll need to go through several steps to adjust settings, such as blade pressure, alignment, and sometimes even the roll feeder. While this approach can offer more customization, it's also more time-consuming and opens the potential for human error.

Only Buy the Best

Ready to invest in equipment that aligns with your needs for precision, versatility, and efficiency? Explore AirMark's range of vinyl roll cutter machines designed to empower creativity while driving productivity. With AirMark, you are not just buying a machine–you’re investing in a relationship that promises incomparable customer support!

The company is the world’s best reflective film cutting machine supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.