Frequently Asked Questions

Straight answers on choosing, buying, running and maintaining HP DesignJet plotters and ZWCAD software in Malaysia.

01 Choosing the Right Plotter

As a newly-started small architectural design firm, which model of A1 plotter should I purchase?

For startups or home offices, we highly recommend the HP DesignJet T650 or T250 series. They are compact, affordable, and incredibly easy to use. However, if your print volume is growing, contact our sales team. We can calculate your ROI to see if a mid-range model like the T870 might actually save you money on ink in the long run.

Can HP DesignJet plotters handle high-precision CAD drawings, or are they just for posters?

HP DesignJet printers are the industry standard for AEC (Architecture, Engineering, Construction). Models like the T-Series are specifically engineered for fine line accuracy (up to 2400 dpi) and legible text on blueprints. If you need to print high-fidelity 3D renderings or posters, we recommend the HP DesignJet Z-Series, which we also supply.

What are the faster A0 large format printers available right now?

If speed is your priority, the HP DesignJet XL 3800 is a game-changer. It prints at speeds up to 6 A1 pages per minute and wakes up from sleep mode instantly. It is the fastest solution in its class, designed to replace legacy LED/Laser plotters for high-volume production environments.

Do I really need a Multifunction Plotter (MFP) with a scanner?

In the modern BIM workflow, yes. An MFP (like the HP DesignJet T2600 or T950 MFP) allows you to scan hand-marked redline drawings at the construction site and instantly email them to your design team. It streamlines collaboration and reduces errors.

Do these plotters support mobile or cloud printing?

Absolutely. All modern HP DesignJets we sell come with HP Click and HP Smart App support. You can send a print job from your smartphone while at a construction site, and the plot will be waiting for you when you get back to the office.

HP DesignJet XL 3800 vs. Traditional Laser/LED Plotters, which is better?

The XL 3800 is the modern winner. Unlike old LED machines that require warm-up time and high energy, the XL 3800 is instant-on, uses 30% less energy, and prints in color for the same cost as monochrome.

02 Buying, Renting & Financing

Is it better to buy a plotter or rent one?

This depends on your cash flow and project duration. Buying offers the lowest long-term ownership cost. However, DPI Technology's Rental Plans are popular for project-based site offices because they include full maintenance, parts, and consumables in one monthly fee — meaning zero surprise repair costs for you.

Can I pay by installment or split the payment? Which banks are supported?

Yes, absolutely! We understand that purchasing large-format printers is a significant investment. We offer a 0% Interest Installment Payment Plan (IPP) for up to 24 months through our payment partner, PineLab & PayEx. This allows you to split your payment into affordable monthly installments using your credit card from the following major banks: Maybank, Public Bank, CIMB Bank, RHB Bank, Hong Leong Bank, AmBank, UOB (United Overseas Bank), OCBC Bank, Affin Bank, Standard Chartered (subject to latest update), HSBC (subject to latest update).

Are Refurbished plotters safe to buy?

Only if you buy from a certified specialist like DPI Technology Sdn Bhd. Unlike buying a used machine from a random seller, DPI's Refurbished Units undergo a rigorous multipoint inspection, printhead cleaning, and come with a warranty. It's a safe way to get high-end specs on a budget.

03 Ordering, Delivery & Payment (Malaysia)

How can I order HP DesignJet Plotters? (Malaysia Customer Only)

Scenario A: If the price is displayed on the website — Add the printer to your shopping cart, proceed to checkout and complete the payment, and our team will contact you shortly to schedule delivery and installation. Scenario B: If the website doesn't show the price (or for complex machines) — We require a consultation first: add the item to your cart and click "Send Inquiry", or simply click the "Contact Us" button, then provide your full contact details (Name, Company, Phone Number); our sales team will contact you personally to provide an official quotation and discuss technical requirements. Delivery and Installation: Klang Valley — Free delivery + 1 Day Professional Installation & Training. Outside Klang Valley — delivery and installation surcharges apply (quoted separately).

What are the steps to order ink and paper online? (Malaysia Customer Only)

Step 1: Add all desired items into your shopping cart. Step 2: Proceed to checkout (shipping charges apply based on state; orders over RM500 within Klang Valley enjoy free delivery). Step 3: Select your payment method (Cash Deposit / Bank Transfer / Online Payment / Credit Card). Step 4: Once payment is confirmed, shipment will be processed within 1–2 working days. Video guide: how to order online.

Can I self-collect urgent orders? (Malaysia Customer Only)

Yes. Just select self collect from the checkout page. You can self collect in person or schedule a third-party rider to collect it. Contact us immediately at +603 9171 3388 or +6017 791 7001 (Ms. Regine) to arrange the pickup time.

04 Running Costs & Consumables

Are HP ink costs high? What is the cost per print?

HP technology has become very efficient. While generic cartridges look cheap, they often clog printheads, leading to expensive repairs. Using original HP inks (which we supply) ensures printhead longevity. Contact us for a Cost-Per-Print analysis — we can show you how the Total Cost of Ownership is lower with genuine supplies.

Can I print waterproof drawings for construction sites?

Yes! The latest HP DesignJet T850, T950, and XL 3800 series use HP Flex Tech Inks. These are pigment-based inks that are resistant to water drops, highlighters, and smudging, making them perfect for rough handling at Malaysian construction sites.

Where can I buy original HP 711/712/727 inks with fast delivery?

DPI Technology Sdn Bhd keeps Ready Stock for almost all HP consumables in our warehouse. For customers in the Klang Valley, we often provide same-day or next-day delivery to ensure your project never stops due to low ink.

Does the HP DesignJet come with a waste ink tank (Maintenance Cartridge) like Canon? How much does it cost?

This depends on the model, but HP's design often saves you money here. For Entry & Mid-Level Models (e.g., T250, T650, Studio, T850): Unlike Canon plotters (which require you to buy and replace "Maintenance Cartridges" regularly), these HP models do not use a user-replaceable waste ink tank — they're engineered with a built-in Service Station designed to last the printer's typical lifespan, so it's one less consumable to buy and store. For High-Production Models (e.g. XL 3800): Yes, for heavy-duty printing they use a replaceable Maintenance Cartridge to keep the machine running smoothly. Cost: for high-end models that need one, typically RM 300–500 depending on series. For entry-level T650/T850 series, your cost is RM 0.

How much do I save with HP DesignJet since it doesn't require a Waste Ink Tank (Maintenance Cartridge)?

You save significantly on Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) over the printer's lifespan. With competing brands (like Canon), you must purchase a replacement Maintenance Cartridge every time it fills up — typically once every 6–12 months depending on usage, each costing RM 250–400. Over 5 years that can mean an extra RM 1,500–2,000 spent on empty plastic boxes. For models like the T650, T850, and T950, this cost is RM 0 — HP's efficient engineering keeps that money in your pocket.

What is the function of the Waste Ink Tank (Maintenance Cartridge) / Service Station?

Think of it as the "trash bin" or "oil filter" for your plotter — its job is to keep your printhead healthy and your machine clean. It captures excess ink the printer occasionally "spits" to clear microscopic nozzles and prevent clogging; it stores ink flushed through the system during printhead cleaning/alignment cycles to remove air bubbles; and it protects internal parts by containing this liquid waste so it doesn't leak onto the printer's circuit boards or drive belts.

How many drawings can I print from a single roll of paper?

The output depends on the roll width (A0 vs. A1) and the material type (Standard Plotting Paper vs. Linen). Quick estimation guide — Standard Plotting Paper (White): A0 Roll (841mm) prints approx. 42 pcs (A0) or 84 pcs (A1); A1 Roll (594mm) prints approx. 53 pcs (A1). Linen Paper (Textured): A0 Roll (841mm) prints approx. 20 pcs (A0) or 40 pcs (A1); A1 Roll (594mm) prints approx. 11 pcs (A1). Note: these are estimates based on standard drawing lengths — actual output may vary slightly due to margins, cutting lines, and title blocks.

05 Warranty & After-Sales Support

Who provides the best after-sales support for plotters in KL/Malaysia?

DPI Technology has been serving the industry since 1995. We are not just box-movers; we have a dedicated team of HP Certified Technical Engineers. We have won the "Best Large Format Printer Reseller" award consistently for over a decade.

Does the warranty cover on-site repairs?

Yes. For most large-format plotters (A1/A0), the standard warranty includes Next Business Day On-Site Service. You don't need to carry the machine to us — our engineers come to you. We also offer extended "Care Packs" for up to 5 years of coverage.

Do you provide installation and training?

Absolutely. We provide a "Turnkey Solution." We deliver the machine, set it up on your network, install drivers on your PCs, and provide training for your staff on how to operate and maintain the plotter. You don't just buy a box; you buy a working solution.

I plan to use this plotter for 5+ years. Can I extend the warranty annually, and how does this compare to other brands?

Yes, this is one of HP's biggest advantages. Unlike some brands that leave you unprotected once the standard warranty expires (forcing expensive "per-call" repair fees), HP offers "Post Warranty Care Packs": Yearly Flexibility (renew year-by-year based on your budget, no 5-year commitment upfront), Guaranteed Support (as long as the printer hasn't reached its End of Support Life, keep renewing for Next Business Day On-Site Support and free spare parts, even in Year 4 or 5), and Investment Protection (turns an unpredictable repair cost into a fixed, manageable annual fee).

06 CAD Software (ZWCAD)

Can ZWCAD completely replace AutoCAD?

Yes, for the vast majority of users. ZWCAD uses the native .DWG format, meaning you can open, edit, and save files just like you do in AutoCAD, but at a fraction of the cost. DPI offers a free trial so you can test the compatibility yourself.

Will ZWCAD open my existing AutoCAD files?

Yes, seamless compatibility is ZWCAD's main feature. It reads and writes standard .DWG files. There is no file conversion needed, and your team won't need to relearn the software commands.

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