HP enhances Latex R portfolio

The Latex R1000 2020 edition boasts more efficient multi-sheet media loading and handling
The Latex R1000 2020 edition boasts more efficient multi-sheet media loading and handling

HP has rolled out a raft of improvements across its Latex R series of hybrid printers to enable customers to benefit from higher productivity and efficiency.

Software productivity advancements across the portfolio – which now consists of the 2.5m-wide HP Latex R2000 Plus, the 1.64m-wide HP Latex R1000 Plus, and the new 1.64m-wide entry-level Latex R1000 2020 edition – include expanded queue management capability and automated updates.

More efficient multi-sheet media loading and handling, meanwhile, has been added to help users to significantly boost their output.

The enhanced models are commercially available immediately and HP confirmed that the upgrades will also be available to existing R Series printer users.

The manufacturer added the enhanced series will also enable printers to grow applications such as custom short-run packaging, POP corrugated displays and printed thermoforming.

“With the new HP Latex R printer series 2020 edition, large-format print service providers will benefit from new levels of performance,” said HP large-format graphics business general manager Guayente Sanmartin.

“They will also be able to expand to fast-growing applications, such as short-run special packaging and printed thermoforming for which HP Latex inks technology delivers top quality performance.”

The original HP Latex R1000 printer was launched in summer 2018 as an entry-level sibling to the R2000, which was unveiled at Fespa in May that year.

The machines can handle rigid substrates including paper and plastic foamboard, PVC foam, corrugated board, acrylic, polycarbonate, compressed cardboard, honeycomb board, aluminium composite panel and wood.

Compatible roll substrates include PVC banner, self-adhesive vinyl, coated paper, polypropylene, polystyrene, polycarbonate, polyester, textiles and canvas.

The machines make use of HP’s Latex White ink, a glossy, high-quality “true white” that doesn’t yellow over time like traditional UV-based white ink.

Separately, HP has now confirmed that its AGM will take place on 12 May 2020. It has asked its shareholders to vote at the meeting for the 12 director nominees proposed by the company's board.

Amid its hostile takeover bid for HP, Xerox has also nominated 12 director candidates to stand for election to the board at the AGM, in opposition to the nominees recommended by HP.