Epson has launched the Stylus Pro 10000, a new wide-format ink-jet printer to challenge the Hewlett-Packard Designjet 5000.


"It competes head-to-head with the Designjet 5000," said product manager Martin Johns. "Although the HP is faster on paper, in practical tests the 10000 is 1.6 times more productive."


The 44in-wide 10000 is the firms flagship large-format product and at 20m2 per hour is three times faster than the 9000. It also features variable droplet size technology for improved image quality.


"The 10000 addresses two areas: speed and quality," said Johns. "Weve also improved productivity, its not just about print speed, but about the time taken from pressing print to delivering a finished sheet."


Epson will supply a new EFI-based software RIP, the Stylus RIP Designer XL, rather than the EFI hardware RIP. Third-party RIPs are also under development.
With the faster speed the firm hopes to attract customers in the exhibition graphics and signage markets.


It will be available with fast drying dye-based inks or as the 10000CF with ColorFast pigment-based inks.


Price will be "competitive" with the Designjet 5000 at around 7,500.


Story by Barney Cox