Calcomp Printer / Plotter: History, Use Cases & Buying Insights

In the world of graphic design, large-format drawing, engineering output, signage production, and professional plotting, certain legacy names carry weight. Calcomp is one such name — known historically for high-precision plotters and graphic output devices. While Calcomp no longer exists in the mainstream as a mass-market printer brand, its legacy informs how professionals think about printing large drawings, blueprints, maps, and banners.

What Is Calcomp? Historical Overview & Legacy

Calcomp Technology, Inc. (often just “Calcomp”) was an American company, founded in 1959 as California Computer Products, Inc. Over time, it became more known for plotters — devices used to draw vector graphics on paper using pens or pens / mechanical drawing heads rather than standard inkjet / laser printing. The Calcomp 565 was a famous drum plotter model. In later years, Calcomp shifted or divested many of its imaging / plotter lines; the core company ceased operations in 1999, and various elements of its technology were sold off. Today, CalComp (or “Calcomp”) is not active in consumer printer markets. Instead, the name lives on in CalComp Graphic Solutions, which specializes in large-format inkjet / signage / graphic print supplies and service. 

Thus, when you search for “Calcomp printer,” you are often referring implicitly to large-format inkjet / plotters / graphic printers under the broader umbrella of CalComp’s successor ventures.

Modern Equivalent / Successor: CalComp Graphic Solutions

CalComp Graphic Solutions is an active contemporary company serving clients with wide-format / large-format printing systems, supplies, media, and service. 

They provide:

• Eco-solvent, UV, latex, dye sublimation printers
• Support, installation, training, supplies, media
• Color management, RIP software, technical services
• Maintenance and warranty services 

Thus, when writing about “Calcomp printers” today, it makes sense to treat them under the umbrella of large-format graphic / signage printers, not ordinary office or home printers.

Where a “Calcomp-style” / Large-Format Printer Is Useful

These devices cater to industries that need to output wide graphics, blueprints, posters, banners, maps, signage, architectural drawings, and more. Key use cases:

• Architectural / Civil Engineering Firms — printing large construction plans, site maps
• Graphic Design, Advertising & Signage Shops — posters, billboards, vinyl wraps
• GIS / Mapping / Surveying — maps, terrain data visualizations
• Retail Graphics / Trade Shows — banners, backdrops, display signage
• Print Shops / Copy Centers — offering large-format printing to external customers

Because such devices are expensive, the decision to buy involves volume, durability, quality, service, and total cost of operation.

How to Choose a Large-Format / Plotting Device (Calcomp-style)

Here are key criteria and considerations to guide your selection:

Print Width & Media Size

Decide the maximum width (e.g., 24", 36", 44", 60", 72", etc) based on your largest expected output. Also check for media roll support (types, thickness, rigidity).

Print Technology

⦁ Eco-solvent / solvent printers: good for durable outdoor signage

⦁ UV / UV-LED printers: can print on rigid materials, plastics, signs with instant curing

⦁ Latex / water-based / dye-sub: good for indoor graphics, fabric, murals with safer emissions

⦁ Plotter / pen / mechanical drawing types: legacy in precise line drawing (less common now)

Resolution & Color Accuracy

Check dpi (dots per inch), the number of color channels (CMYK, plus optional white, varnish), and calibration options.

Speed & Throughput

Measured in square meters per hour or linear meters per hour. For business use, throughput must meet demand.

Connectivity & Workflow

Support for RIP software, file formats (PDF, AI, EPS), network printing, remote job submission, cloud integration.

Durability & Maintenance

Check the service cycle, printhead life, replaceable parts, warranty, and service support in your region.

Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)

Ink / consumable cost, media cost, power, maintenance, downtime — these matter more over 3–5 years than upfront price.

Local Support & Parts Availability

In your region or country, confirm that the model you pick has local technical support, parts, consumables, and service contracts.

Where to Buy a Calcomp Printer in Bangladesh?

In today’s fast-paced digital world, printing technology plays a vital role in business operations, design, and documentation. Whether you’re an architect, designer, engineer, or printing professional, having a reliable large-format printer is essential for producing precise and high-quality visuals. One name that has long been synonymous with professional-grade large-format printing is Calcomp.

If you’re wondering where to buy a Calcomp printer in Bangladesh, look no further than Dream Electronics BD — the country’s trusted source for authentic printers, plotters, and imaging equipment. In this article, we’ll explore the Calcomp brand legacy, its modern large-format printing relevance, and why Dream Electronics BD is the best destination for genuine Calcomp printers in Bangladesh.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Are Calcomp printers suitable for architectural drawings?

Yes, Calcomp printers are ideal for engineering and architectural printing due to their high accuracy and large-format output capability.

Q2: Does Dream Electronics BD provide Calcomp printer warranty support?

Absolutely! All Calcomp printers purchased from Dream Electronics BD come with official warranty and service coverage.

Q3: Can I order Calcomp printers online from outside Dhaka?

Yes! Dream Electronics BD offers nationwide delivery across Bangladesh with secure packaging and fast shipping.

Q4: Do Calcomp printers support color printing?

Yes, many models — including the GraphicJet and UVPlot series — support vivid full-color printing suitable for signage and posters.