posted
Fianlly I was able to get my VersaCamm today. The maximum print/cut size of 30", yet ironically the machine's length is 72".
Man, it is heavy, and I mean REALLY heavy. Worse, my place is on a second floor, and it took four people to move it up here.
I guess one can run a one man shop, but it definitely takes more than one to set up the stage... So be warned all the wonnabes...
In the next few days I will be reading all those manuals first before I attempt to activate and connect it up to my computer. Will keep those interested posted on this.
[ March 04, 2004, 10:01 PM: Message edited by: Peter Crossing ]
-------------------- Peter Xing peter@wonderfulgraphics.com Wonderful Signs & Graphics 55 Chrystie Street New York NY 212 431 5957 Posts: 43 | From: New York NY | Registered: Jul 2003
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posted
I'll be Patiently waiting for your Comments on this one, It's almost time for me to invest in some more gear, and I've been looking into this machine, but will wait a little longer.. seems the jury is still out on this one.
Maybe I should upgrade to the edge2 or just keep my second generation Edge and go for a wide format Inkjet Printer.... Decisions Decisions...
-------------------- "Keep Positive"
SIGNS1st. Neil Butler Paradise, NF Posts: 6277 | From: St. John's NF Canada | Registered: Mar 1999
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posted
Yes Please keep us posted.. Im debating on selling the Harley to buy one of those and really want to see real world applications done with it.. NOW if I could only the rep to call me back.
[ March 05, 2004, 02:23 PM: Message edited by: William DeBekker ]
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Hi peter Glad to hear you have taken delivery of your machine mate. Look forward to your finds! As a bit of reassurance i can tell you i know of several people with versacamms and they are not experiencing any real problems… Print on & make plenty dosh mate!
-------------------- Robert Lambie Glasgow Scotland UK
I actually posted another message on the uksignboards regarding my versacamm machine. Glad to see you here. The folks over there had some excellent discussions on this machine, and I suggest those interested in this topic should check it out on the uksignboards as well.
I had four friends coming over this afternoon to help lift the machine. Setting up the machine is not difficult, just follow the manuals then you are Ok. My problem so far is with Window$. And I am still furious over windows2000. Will post details later.
Anyway I hope to print and cut a sample before I go to sleep tonight. It is much more complicated than operating a camm-1 cutter.
-------------------- Peter Xing peter@wonderfulgraphics.com Wonderful Signs & Graphics 55 Chrystie Street New York NY 212 431 5957 Posts: 43 | From: New York NY | Registered: Jul 2003
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posted
Finally I was able to print and cut 2 sample logos after hours of tweaking. The results is superb, and after 10 minutes I rubbed it with my thumb(I actually added a little of my own saliva :-), and there is no visible wearing.
I got to tell you this is a great machine. You will absolutely love this thing if you know how to use it to the fullest.
I skipped the training by the dealer and decided to set it up the DIY way. The only problem I had was with windows 2000, which repeatedly failed to recognize the printer. Anyway, later it was solved by cousin.
I feel that it is going to take sometime to get used to the machine. Lots of more reading and tweaking ahead, but it is both fun and exciting.
-------------------- Peter Xing peter@wonderfulgraphics.com Wonderful Signs & Graphics 55 Chrystie Street New York NY 212 431 5957 Posts: 43 | From: New York NY | Registered: Jul 2003
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posted
hi peter thanks for the feedback mate.. glad to hear things are going well for you & your new kit.
quote:and after 10 minutes I rubbed it with my thumb(I actually added a little of my own saliva :-), and there is no visible wearing.
best thing to do is leave it over night, then rubb with a very "dry" finger firm. i dont mean till it hurts.. just 4 or 5 times back and forward. if nothing happens....great
i have done various tests now on versa-prints. i have one that is sorta ongoing at the moment. i will post my finds on it in a couple of weeks. my honest opinion is that if you apply to a vehicle then cover in clear vinyl, manualy or lamination machine. other that that it is great/perfect for exhibition and general sign work.
-------------------- Robert Lambie Glasgow Scotland UK
posted
Hello Robert, Welcome to North America. I have that UK Discussion on my favorites folder, and I check your board out from time to time...There's a lot of debate going on there, and a lot of experience on digital... thanks.
-------------------- "Keep Positive"
SIGNS1st. Neil Butler Paradise, NF Posts: 6277 | From: St. John's NF Canada | Registered: Mar 1999
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I agree with you that vehicle graphics should always be laminated, regardless of what machine or ink or vinyl you use.
But I will always let the customers know that these prints do last a reasonable period of time, and eventually they will need to be replaced just like every other tools they are using.
In my opinion, if a vehicle graphics can last for 3 years without overly deteroration, then it is a quality print. I would not tell them it will last 5 years even it does. Advertisement was meant to be updated over time anyway, most business will come up with new product/service in three years, and their strategy or image need to be reflected in a timely manner also. Otherwise, we will all be out of business in no time :-)
But again, I am in a major metropolitan area, and things can be quite different in other places.
-------------------- Peter Xing peter@wonderfulgraphics.com Wonderful Signs & Graphics 55 Chrystie Street New York NY 212 431 5957 Posts: 43 | From: New York NY | Registered: Jul 2003
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It made some noises when I set up the machine, but the actual operation is quiet and coutour cutting is very fast. And the odour is mild.
Print is very durable. I printed a high resolution photo on a clear calender vinyl last night, and try to wipe it with windex this morning, and the print shows no signs of smudging after repeated wiping. My guess is that it will be more stronger if laminated. But of course, my experience with the machine is less than a week, and I need to see printing with other media other than those "certified" by the manufacturer, and actual durability in the field as well.
My only comlaint would be the size, if it is 36" instead of 30", then I will be 200% happy. Bur for the amount we paid, it is not a bad deal at all.
There are other things I would like to say: 1) Software skills: Photoshop, illustrator, coreldraw, flexisign, etc. learn as much as you can on all of them if possible
2) Design skills: the machine opens up the possibilities, now we need to turn on the imagination
3) start to buy/collect high resolution photos, much as we used to collect vinyl clipart. The more the better.
4) And I need help on this one: figure out how to market digital printing. Any suggestions from those who are happily printing will be appreciated.
quote:Originally posted by Tim Whitcher: Peter, keep us updated! Any pros or cons, any "discoveries"!
-------------------- Peter Xing peter@wonderfulgraphics.com Wonderful Signs & Graphics 55 Chrystie Street New York NY 212 431 5957 Posts: 43 | From: New York NY | Registered: Jul 2003
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![[Smile]](smile.gif)
glad to hear things are going well for you & your new kit. ![[Applause]](graemlins/clap.gif)
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