I've decided to move to new equipment for my shop (have been using GraphixAdvantage run through a PC to a Sprint plotter). I want to move to a "24 plotter, run with some user friendly software. I've been with Gerber since I started and I need my old contract files to move to the new system but I don't have any problem with a change to something different other than that. Basically if you were starting a new shop today with an equip- ment budget of $4500. to meet these parameters what would you buy any why? Thanks for your help and advice on my "been outta the loop too long situation".
Posted by Dave Grundy (Member # 103) on :
John..with a budget of $4500 and wanting a 24" cutter, I'd buy any one of the fine products from Roland, Summa, Graphtec as a cutter.
As far as software, I'd buy either CorelDraw or Adobe Illustrator and then either cut directly from that program or use a bridge program that any of them offer.
Of course it all depends on whether your Gerber sofware will export existing files to either AI or EPS format so that you can then import them into Corel or Illustrator.
If you shop around you will soon discover that the cost of a mainstream dedicated sign making software program will eat up your $4500 in a hurry with nothing left to purchase the actual cutter.
Just my opinion, and I tried to be non-brand specific.
An unusual thing for me!!!! LOL Posted by John Hammond (Member # 4394) on :
I have a call coming in from Hyatt's at 9:30 am to discuss options... they mentioned an Omega up- grade ($900.) to allow the GA I have to work stand alone from the Sprint III and drive any plotter available along with scanning and other capabilities I should have already had years ago. Does this seem like a good idea or are there better ways to skin this cat? I really want to get the most bang for my buck and I feel like I will be able to swing some (small) trade-in allow -ance for my old consol and plotter since I have always worked with Hyatt's. Rayco advertises sev- eral package deals as well,(and takes trade-ins), but I haven't contacted them yet. Thanks!
Posted by Curtis hammond (Member # 2170) on :
Hello Cuz,
if you wish, you could call me at 985 781 3011
I will be happy to discuss your needs with you and make a referal if you wish.
With that amount of money you could get some of the best equipment and software around..
Posted by Robert Thomas (Member # 1356) on :
If you are on a budget like me, I got a 24" cutter for about $2,000. & sign software for $500.
That'll leave you with $2,000 for a killer PC!
E-mail if you want details.
Cheers
Posted by Rick Beisiegel (Member # 3723) on :
One word
GERBER....upgrade to Omega, and get a Graphtec plotter. New 3yr bulletproof warranty. They even pay for shipping for repairs.
Regards,
Posted by Mark Matyjakowski (Member # 294) on :
I run a summa with GA 6.0, our super-sprint is hooked up and we can run them both at same time (although I'd have to clean a bunch of dust off the sprint) I don't remember any special stuff ... just going into GA setup and adding a cutter.(and the usual setting up ports BS)
I'd go 30" and make it a tangentle (sp?) cutter (not drag cut) Get Corel Draw if anything's left
Posted by Kathy Joiner (Member # 1814) on :
Call your cousin Curtis I know what he has (I have the same) it is a workhorse.
Welcome to Letterville
Posted by Fran Maholland (Member # 3609) on :
I have a very nice Ioline 30" Studio 88 with very few hours on it that I might part with reasonably if interetsed. I might even part with Corel 9.0 too as a package. Has original box, manuals, blades and drivers. It is one of two Iolines we had and use to cut smaller than 30" width vinyls... The Gerber Envision is now my major work horse, although we're never cutting vinyl all day long like some shops... it's an on and off affair. Unit is about 4 or 5 years old with less than a year total moderate usage over that time.
Kind regards,
Fran
Posted by John Hammond (Member # 4394) on :
Thanks to all who have offered advice and help to my upcoming leap into new technology. I only hope that I can get my new equipment running as quickly as you guys responded to my cries for help. I'll let y'all know how it all works out!
![[Roll Eyes]](rolleyes.gif)
![[Wink]](wink.gif)
I know what he has (I have the same) it is a workhorse.