VersaCamm VS-640
Sophie Matthews-Paul visits Roland DG to test this new low-cost machine and finds it's small yet perfectly formed for wide output.
As to be expected from the company's existing technologies, the Roland VersaCamm benefits from Eco-Sol Max inks which, in this model, have been set vertically instead of horizontally into the printer. The idea of making this a compact machine, despite its print width, is enhanced by this feature as it means that even the cartridges don't intrude on its width. The decision to redevelop the chassis and print-head assembly has resulted in a machine without the bulk. Yet the design is ergonomically compact without any compromise in build quality or engineering and, as such, demonstrates a common-sense approach to solvent-based machine construction.
One of the key elements to being able to reduce the overall size of the VersaCamm VS-640 without compromising on output speed or quality lies in the printhead assembly which is a far neater arrangement than seen formerly on solvent-based printers. The new compact design enables a far neater overall appearance but, aesthetics aside, there are other logical changes which add to the machine's capabilities and ease of use.
Users have a choice of ink-sets when ordering the VersaCamm VS-640, the first being eight colours comprising CMYKLcLm, white and metallic. The other two alternatives are as a straight four-colour option where twice x CMYK can be employed or by using a CMYKLcLm configuration. The only constraint is that the customer must select which ink version is wanted when the printer is installed.
The printheads used in the new machine have also been set in an array where there is no firing order variation in either direction. Formerly, when printing bi-directionally, banding sometimes occurred between passes whereas, with the layout in the VersaCamm VS-640, the inks are arranged logically with the head layout so this problem won't occur.
The heads have improved variable dot control with a greater number of sizes which, again, improve overall quality and benefit from richer colours via a broader choice of user options. But the combination of these new attributes doesn't make this a complicated printer to set-up and use, with all selectable options easily accessible via the VersaWorks Rip and on the front panel of the machine itself.
Print speeds are remarkably good for such an inexpensive unit, with a respectable 23.1m2/hour in billboard quality using four colours, plus other higher quality and various throughput options available. These also take into account applications where fine detail is needed along with the inclusion of white and metallic silver inks.
The machine itself certainly looks like a new breed of unit. Its keypad is sensibly recessed into the casing to prevent accidental knocks yet easy to operate. It's designed for advanced and more novice users in the way it guides the operator through the various elements during set-up and even allows configurations to be stored for quick access.
Roland believes it is becoming ever more important for job information to be made available remotely. Thus the inclusion of its OnSupport has made its debut with the print-and-cut VersaCamm VS-640. This can be used for a variety of remote diagnostics such as to e-mail status functions, or to notify when a print is finished or the ink is heading for empty. This will benefit users who don't have the time to stand over their machines, and other features also provide software updates and, even, a manual. Roland predicts additional options will be developed and rolled-out in the near future.
The new Roland VersaCamm VS-640 represents a first for the company in that it provides the output quality, the options for white and metallic ink and a very appealing small footprint. It also incorporates the latest version of Roland's acclaimed VersaWorks Rip, plus a host of new technologies in its printhead design and overall functionality. But its price is certain to add to its list of temptations.