Hp T 1300 Plotter: Types, Technical Features, and How They Are Used in Engineering Projects

Types of HP T-Series Designjet Plotters

The HP T-Series Designjet Plotters are high-performance large-format printers designed for engineering, architectural, and graphic design professionals. These plotters deliver precision, speed, and versatility for producing technical drawings, blueprints, posters, and fine art prints. This guide provides a comprehensive comparison of key models in the T-Series lineup, including the HP T1300, T520, and T7300, to help you choose the best fit for your workflow and application needs.

HP T1300 Designjet Printer

A powerful dual-roll 24-inch large-format printer built for high-volume technical printing with professional results.

• Print Technology: Thermal Inkjet with HP Thermal Array technology
• Max Resolution: Up to 4800 x 1200 optimized dpi
• Print Speed: 60 seconds per A1 sheet (approx. 30 pages/hour)
• Media Size: Up to 24 inches (61 cm) wide; dual-roll support for automatic switching
• Ink System: HP 711 and HP 711XL ink cartridges (pigment-based, water-resistant)
• Connectivity: USB 2.0, Ethernet (10/100/1000), Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n)
• Special Features: Automatic duplex (two-sided) printing, web-connected management, compatibility with Windows and macOS

Advantages

• Excellent for high-volume blueprint and CAD printing
• Dual-roll system increases efficiency and reduces manual intervention
• High-resolution output ensures crisp line details
• Wireless and network-ready for shared office environments
• Automatic two-sided printing saves paper and time

Limitations

• Limited to 24-inch width, not suitable for very large posters or banners
• Higher ink consumption on dense technical drawings
• Premium cost for pigment inks over time

Best for: Engineering firms, architectural offices, and design studios requiring fast, reliable A1/A0+ printing

HP T520 Designjet Printer

A compact yet capable 24-inch large-format printer tailored for design professionals and small workgroups.

• Print Technology: Thermal Inkjet with HP Thermal Array
• Max Resolution: 2400 x 1200 optimized dpi
• Print Speed: Up to 120 sq. ft. per hour on plain paper
• Media Size: Up to 24 inches wide; supports sheets up to 13" x 44"
• Ink System: Dual-cartridge design with HP 711 pigment inks
• Connectivity: USB 2.0, Ethernet, Wi-Fi
• Interface: 4.3-inch color touchscreen for intuitive control

Advantages

• Compact footprint ideal for space-limited offices
• Touchscreen interface simplifies job management
• Excellent color accuracy for graphic and fine art applications
• Supports a wide range of media types including bond, coated, and backlit films
• Energy-efficient with low power consumption

Limitations

• Lower resolution than T1300 for ultra-detailed technical prints
• No automatic duplex printing
• Single-roll system requires manual media changes

Best for: Graphic designers, small architecture firms, and creative professionals needing high-quality color and line drawings

HP T7300 Designjet Printer

A wide-format 44-inch printer engineered for high-precision technical and presentation-grade output.

• Print Technology: Thermal Inkjet with HP Thermal Array
• Max Resolution: 2400 x 1200 optimized dpi
• Print Speed: 1.3 pages/min (black), 0.4 pages/min (color)
• Media Size: Up to 44 inches (111 cm) wide; supports plain paper, photo paper, canvas, and specialty media
• Ink System: HP 711 pigment inks (archival quality, fade-resistant)
• Connectivity: Gigabit Ethernet, USB, Wi-Fi, and web-enabled email printing
• Management: Web-based interface for remote job monitoring and printer control

Advantages

• 44-inch width supports large posters, banners, and detailed CAD layouts
• Supports diverse media types including canvas and glossy photo paper
• Remote printing via email enhances collaboration and workflow flexibility
• Large touchscreen interface for easy navigation
• Ideal for both technical and presentation-quality outputs

Limitations

• Bulkier design requires more floor space
• Slower color printing speed compared to monochrome
• Higher initial investment and ongoing ink costs

Best for: Large architectural firms, CAD centers, and marketing departments producing large-format visuals and presentations

Model	Print Width	Resolution	Print Speed	Key Features
HP T1300	24 inches	4800 x 1200 dpi	60 sec/A1 sheet	Dual-roll, auto duplex, Wi-Fi, Ethernet
HP T520	24 inches	2400 x 1200 dpi	120 sq. ft./hr	Touchscreen, compact design, Wi-Fi
HP T7300	44 inches	2400 x 1200 dpi	1.3 ppm (B), 0.4 ppm (C)	Web printing, large media support, touchscreen

Expert Tip: For optimal performance and longevity, use genuine HP inks and regularly calibrate your Designjet plotter. Enable automatic roll switching on dual-roll models like the T1300 to maintain uninterrupted printing during long print runs.

Workflow Suggestion: Pair your HP T-Series plotter with HP Print Server or HP Embedded Web Server for centralized print management, remote monitoring, and secure job submission—ideal for multi-user environments.

Industrial Applications of HP T 1300 Large-Format Plotter

The HP T 1300 large-format plotter is a powerful, reliable, and high-precision printing solution designed for professional environments. With its advanced print technology, support for large media sizes, and exceptional color accuracy, the HP T 1300 is widely adopted across diverse industries—from engineering and architecture to art and education. Its ability to produce crisp, detailed, and scalable output makes it an indispensable tool for technical, creative, and administrative applications.

Key Advantages: High-resolution printing (up to 2400 dpi), support for roll and sheet media up to 36 inches wide, fast print speeds, HP Thermal Inkjet technology, and compatibility with a wide range of media types including bond paper, vellum, canvas, and backlit films.

Architecture and Engineering

The HP T 1300 excels in producing highly accurate technical drawings and detailed blueprints. Its precision ensures that fine lines, annotations, and dimensioning remain clear and legible, even at large scales. Architects and engineers rely on this plotter for creating construction documents, site plans, and elevation drawings that meet industry standards for clarity and reproducibility.

Construction

In the construction industry, the HP T 1300 is used to print large-scale site maps, structural plans, and project layouts. Its ability to handle wide-format paper without compromising print quality ensures that field teams receive clear, full-size documentation. This enhances coordination between on-site crews and design offices, reducing errors and improving project efficiency.

Graphic Design

Graphic designers utilize the HP T 1300 for producing high-impact visual materials such as posters, banners, and presentation graphics. With vibrant color reproduction and sharp detail, the plotter brings creative concepts to life. Its compatibility with premium media allows designers to experiment with different finishes and textures for client presentations and exhibitions.

Advertising and Marketing

Marketing professionals use the HP T 1300 to create eye-catching signage, promotional displays, and outdoor advertising materials. The plotter supports large media formats ideal for trade show booths, retail displays, and event backdrops. Its fast output and consistent quality make it suitable for time-sensitive campaigns and short-run production.

Organizational Staff Management

HR and administrative departments leverage the HP T 1300 to produce large organizational charts, workflow diagrams, and team structure visuals. These high-resolution prints are often displayed in offices or used in strategic planning sessions, enabling clear communication of reporting hierarchies and departmental relationships.

Education and Academia

Educators use the HP T 1300 to print large-format learning aids such as world maps, scientific diagrams, historical timelines, and anatomical charts. These oversized, high-clarity prints enhance classroom engagement and are especially effective in subjects requiring visual learning. Schools and universities also use the plotter for student projects in engineering, design, and geography.

Art and Photography

Artists and photographers use the HP T 1300 to produce gallery-quality fine art prints and photographic enlargements. With precise color calibration and support for premium papers and canvas, the plotter delivers professional results suitable for exhibitions and sales. Its ability to print borderless images on large media makes it ideal for impactful visual storytelling.

GIS and Mapping

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) professionals depend on the HP T 1300 for printing detailed topographic maps, land use plans, and environmental surveys. These large-format outputs are essential for urban planning, natural resource management, and disaster response planning. The plotter’s accuracy ensures that spatial data is represented faithfully and legibly.

Mechanical Engineering and CAD

The HP T 1300 is widely used in mechanical engineering to print complex CAD drawings, assembly schematics, and manufacturing blueprints. Its high resolution allows for the precise rendering of intricate components, tolerances, and annotations. This level of detail is crucial for quality control, prototyping, and production oversight.

Landscape and Garden Design

Landscape architects and garden designers use the HP T 1300 to produce detailed site plans, planting layouts, and irrigation schematics. The ability to print large, clear designs enables field crews to accurately implement landscaping projects. These visual plans also help clients visualize the final outcome before installation begins.

Industry	Primary Use	Key Benefit
Architecture & Engineering	Technical drawings, blueprints	High precision and clarity for detailed plans
Construction	Site plans, large-scale maps	Consistent quality on wide-format media
Graphic Design	Posters, banners, presentations	Vibrant color and high-resolution output
Advertising	Signage, promotional materials	Fast, professional-grade large-format prints
Education	Maps, charts, teaching aids	Enhanced visual learning with large prints
Art & Photography	Gallery prints, photo enlargements	Color accuracy and media versatility
GIS & Urban Planning	Topographic and thematic maps	Accurate spatial representation
Mechanical Engineering	CAD drawings, schematics	Detail fidelity for complex designs
Landscape Design	Site plans, planting layouts	Clear visuals for field implementation

Versatile Media Support: Handles paper, vellum, canvas, film, and coated media for diverse applications.

High-Speed Output: Efficient printing with minimal downtime, ideal for high-volume environments.

Network Connectivity: Ethernet and wireless options enable shared access across departments.

Eco-Friendly Operation: Energy-efficient design with low power consumption and minimal waste.

User-Friendly Interface: Intuitive control panel and remote management via HP Smart app.

Pro Tip: To maximize print quality and longevity, always use genuine HP inks and media. Regular calibration and head cleaning ensure consistent performance. For best results in technical applications, use CAD-optimized print drivers and settings.

Detailed Specifications of the HP DesignJet T1300 Plotter

The HP DesignJet T1300 is a high-performance large-format printer designed for engineering, architectural, and design professionals who demand precision, speed, and reliability. With advanced thermal inkjet technology and seamless connectivity, this plotter delivers exceptional print quality for technical drawings, blueprints, and detailed graphics.

Core Printing Technology

• Print Technology: HP thermal inkjet with precision drop placement for sharp lines and fine details
• Print Resolution: Up to 2400 x 1200 optimized dpi, ensuring crisp text and accurate line reproduction
• Ink System: 6-color HP pigment-based ink for enhanced durability, fade resistance, and consistent color output
• Cartridge Options: Available in both standard and high-yield cartridges to suit varying print volumes and cost-efficiency needs

Key Benefit: Pigment inks offer superior water and smudge resistance—ideal for field use and long-term document preservation.

Media Handling & Output Capacity

• Media Width: Supports media up to 24 inches (610 mm), perfect for A1/D-size prints
• Roll Length: Handles roll media up to 39 feet (11.8 meters), minimizing frequent loading for long print runs
• Supported Formats: PDF, JPEG, TIFF, DWF, and HP-GL/2 for versatile file compatibility
• Automatic Sheet Feeder: Enables unattended printing of multiple sheets with consistent alignment

Ideal For: High-volume technical printing in offices, construction sites, and design studios.

Performance & Speed

• Print Speed: Capable of producing 120 A1-sized plots per hour (one every 30 seconds under optimal conditions)
• First Page Out: As fast as 35 seconds from sleep mode, improving workflow efficiency
• Drying Time: Fast-drying inks allow immediate handling of prints without smudging

Real-World Impact: Reduces waiting time during urgent project deadlines and client presentations.

Connectivity & Compatibility

• Connectivity Options: USB 2.0, 10/100/1000 Ethernet, and wireless networking (802.11 b/g/n) for flexible deployment
• Platform Support: Fully compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems
• Mobile Printing: Supports HP ePrint and Apple AirPrint for remote access and mobile device integration
• Network Sharing: Easily shared across teams via a local network for collaborative environments

Pro Tip: Use wireless connectivity to enable printing from tablets or laptops on-site without physical cables.

Professional Recommendation: For optimal performance, pair the HP T1300 with genuine HP media and high-yield cartridges—especially in high-demand environments. This combination maximizes print head longevity, ensures color accuracy, and reduces maintenance downtime.

Specification	Detail
Print Technology	HP Thermal Inkjet
Maximum Resolution	2400 x 1200 optimized dpi
Media Width	Up to 24 inches (610 mm)
Roll Length	Up to 39 feet (11.8 m)
Print Speed (A1)	Up to 120 prints per hour (~30 seconds per print)
Ink System	6-color pigment-based ink
Cartridge Types	Standard and High-Yield
Connectivity	USB, Ethernet (Gigabit), Wireless (802.11 b/g/n)
Supported OS	Windows & macOS
File Formats	PDF, JPEG, TIFF, DWF, HP-GL/2

Additional Features & Benefits

• Energy Efficiency: ENERGY STAR® certified with low power consumption and automatic sleep mode
• User Interface: 4.3-inch color touchscreen for intuitive navigation and job management
• Security: Network security features including password protection and secure boot
• Maintenance: Self-cleaning print heads and easy-access cartridges reduce downtime
• Eco-Friendly: Recyclable ink cartridges and low-emission operation support sustainability goals

Quality and Safety of HP T 1300 Plotter

The HP T 1300 Designjet Plotter is engineered with a strong emphasis on user safety, environmental responsibility, and print quality. Designed for professional environments such as architectural firms, engineering offices, and home workspaces, this plotter incorporates multiple safety and sustainability features to minimize health risks, reduce energy consumption, and support eco-conscious practices. From non-toxic inks to energy-efficient operations and recyclable materials, the HP T 1300 reflects HP’s commitment to high standards in product design and environmental stewardship.

Safety & Environmental Note: Always follow HP-recommended practices for ink handling, paper sourcing, and device maintenance to ensure optimal safety and environmental performance. Avoid using third-party consumables that may compromise air quality or equipment integrity.

Preventing Dispensation of Harmful Substances

To ensure a safe and healthy working environment, HP recommends using only HP Universal Ink with the T 1300 plotter. This water-based ink is formulated without toxic solvents, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), or hazardous air pollutants commonly found in solvent-based inks. As a result, it significantly reduces indoor air contamination and is ideal for use in enclosed spaces such as small offices, home offices, and shared work environments.

In addition, the use of environmentally certified paper—such as those bearing the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) or PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification) labels—ensures that print materials come from responsibly managed forests, promoting biodiversity and sustainable forestry practices.

Paper Made from Environmentally Sourced Wood

FSC and PEFC certifications guarantee that the paper used in your prints originates from forests managed in accordance with strict environmental, social, and economic standards. By choosing certified paper, users of the HP T 1300 contribute to:

• Reduction of deforestation and habitat destruction
• Promotion of reforestation and sustainable harvesting
• Support for communities involved in forest management
• Lower carbon footprint across the paper lifecycle

HP encourages customers to verify paper certification when purchasing supplies to maintain the environmental integrity of their printing workflow.

Energy Conservation Features

The HP T 1300 is designed to minimize energy consumption without sacrificing performance. Key energy-saving features include:

• Automatic Duplex Printing: This feature enables double-sided printing by default, reducing paper usage by up to 50% and indirectly lowering energy consumption associated with paper production and disposal.
• Intelligent Power Management: The plotter automatically enters low-power sleep mode after periods of inactivity, reducing idle energy draw.
• ENERGY STAR® Certification: The HP T 1300 meets stringent energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), ensuring lower electricity usage during operation and standby modes.

These features not only reduce environmental impact but also help organizations lower operational costs over time.

Use of Recyclable Materials

Sustainability is integrated into the HP T 1300’s design. A significant portion of the plotter, including plastic housings, internal components, and packaging, is made from recyclable materials. HP prioritizes the use of post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastics where feasible and designs products for disassembly at end-of-life to facilitate recycling.

Additionally, HP’s packaging is:

• Minimized to reduce waste
• Made from recyclable cardboard and biodegradable materials
• FSC-certified when wood-based materials are used

Recycling Programs

HP operates a comprehensive global recycling program known as HP Planet Partners, which allows customers to return used ink cartridges and other consumables for responsible recycling. This closed-loop system helps:

• Divert waste from landfills
• Recover valuable materials such as plastics and metals
• Reduce the need for virgin resource extraction
• Support circular economy initiatives

Customers can easily participate by requesting free return labels and shipping boxes directly from the HP website, making sustainable disposal both convenient and accessible.

Monitoring of Ink Levels

The HP T 1300 includes advanced ink monitoring technology that allows users to track ink levels in real time through the printer’s control panel or connected software (e.g., HP Smart App or HP Designjet Smart Storage). This proactive monitoring helps prevent:

• Unexpected print job interruptions
• Inconsistent print quality due to low ink
• Wasted media from incomplete prints

By maintaining optimal ink levels, users ensure consistent output quality and reduce material waste, contributing to both operational efficiency and environmental sustainability.

Safe Use and Handling

The HP T 1300 is equipped with built-in safety features and clear user guidance to promote safe operation. These include:

• On-screen warnings for proper handling of ink cartridges and print media
• Guidance on avoiding skin or eye contact with ink (though HP Universal Ink is non-toxic, it may cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals)
• Instructions for safe cartridge replacement and jam clearance
• Ventilation recommendations for enclosed spaces

These features help prevent accidents, reduce exposure risks, and ensure a safer printing environment for all users.

Responsibility of Manufacturing Company

HP, as the manufacturer of the T 1300 plotter, upholds a global commitment to product safety, environmental responsibility, and regulatory compliance. The company adheres to rigorous international standards, including:

• ISO 14001: Environmental management systems
• ISO 9001: Quality management systems
• IEC 60950-1 / IEC 62368-1: Safety standards for information technology equipment
• REACH and RoHS: Regulations restricting hazardous substances in electronics

HP conducts extensive testing during design and production to ensure every unit meets these standards, providing users with a reliable, safe, and compliant printing solution.

Sustainability Feature	Benefit	Standard/Certification	User Action Required
HP Universal Ink	Non-toxic, low-odor, safe for indoor use	REACH, RoHS compliant	Use genuine HP ink only
ENERGY STAR Certification	Reduced energy consumption	ENERGY STAR®	Enable power-saving modes
FSC/PEFC-Certified Paper	Sustainable forestry support	FSC, PEFC	Purchase certified paper
HP Planet Partners Recycling	Cartridge reuse and material recovery	Global recycling program	Return used cartridges
Recyclable Construction	End-of-life component recovery	ISO 14001 compliant design	Dispose via e-waste channels

Expert Tip: Maximize the environmental and safety benefits of your HP T 1300 by pairing it with genuine HP supplies, enrolling in the HP Planet Partners program, and configuring automatic power-down settings. Regular firmware updates also ensure continued compliance with evolving safety and efficiency standards.

Additional Recommendations for Optimal Performance

• Perform routine cleaning and maintenance as per HP guidelines to maintain print quality and device longevity
• Use HP’s online tools to monitor device usage and environmental impact
• Educate office staff on safe handling and recycling procedures
• Consider integrating the plotter into a broader office sustainability initiative
• Check HP’s website for regional recycling and take-back programs

In summary, the HP T 1300 Designjet Plotter stands out not only for its precision and reliability but also for its robust safety protocols and environmental credentials. By combining non-toxic materials, energy-efficient operation, and comprehensive recycling support, HP empowers users to work safely and sustainably. Whether in a corporate setting or a home office, the T 1300 exemplifies how professional-grade technology can align with health, safety, and ecological responsibility.

Frequently Asked Questions About the HP DesignJet T1300 Printer

Q1: Can the HP DesignJet T1300 be used without an HP USB connection to a computer or network?

No, the HP DesignJet T1300 printer cannot operate independently without a direct connection. It requires a USB connection to a computer to receive print jobs and function properly.

• No Wireless Capability: Unlike newer models, the T1300 does not support Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or wireless printing, limiting connectivity to USB only.
• Direct Computer Link: The printer must be connected to a host computer running compatible design or CAD software such as AutoCAD, Revit, or Adobe Illustrator.
• Driver Dependency: Proper HP drivers must be installed on the connected computer to ensure smooth communication and optimal performance.

For uninterrupted operation, ensure the USB cable is securely connected and the host computer is powered on during printing.

Q2: What regular maintenance does the HP DesignJet T1300 require?

To maintain consistent print quality and prolong the lifespan of your HP DesignJet T1300, routine maintenance is essential. The most critical tasks include printhead cleaning and system checks.

• Printhead Cleaning: Clean the printhead after approximately every 100 pages or if print quality begins to degrade (e.g., streaks, missing lines).
• Automatic Maintenance: The printer performs automatic servicing cycles when powered on, but manual cleaning via the control panel may be needed periodically.
• Dust and Debris Removal: Wipe down the exterior and roll feed mechanism regularly to prevent paper jams and mechanical issues.
• Ink System Checks: Monitor ink levels and perform nozzle checks weekly, especially if the printer is used intermittently.

Following HP’s recommended maintenance schedule helps prevent clogs and ensures sharp, accurate output for technical drawings and large-format prints.

Q3: Does the HP DesignJet T1300 require special paper to work properly?

The HP DesignJet T1300 does not require proprietary HP-branded paper, but using appropriate media is crucial for optimal results and machine longevity.

• Inkjet-Compatible Paper: Use high-quality inkjet-specific paper to ensure proper ink absorption and prevent smudging or bleeding.
• Recommended Media Types: Bond paper, coated matte paper, vellum, and translucent bond are ideal for architectural and engineering prints.
• Paper Handling: Ensure paper is stored flat and dry to avoid curling or moisture damage, which can lead to misfeeds.
• Roll vs. Sheet: The T1300 supports both roll and sheet-fed media; adjust printer settings accordingly for the type in use.

Using unsuitable paper (e.g., plain office paper or non-inkjet coated stock) may result in poor print quality, head clogging, or damage to the feed mechanism.

Q4: Which T1300 printer settings help to provide good-quality prints?

For professional-grade output, it's important to configure the correct print settings in both the printer driver and the device interface.

• Paper Type: Select the exact media type (e.g., bond, coated, translucent) in the print dialog to optimize ink application and drying.
• Paper Size and Orientation: Match the physical paper size loaded with the setting in the software to avoid scaling or alignment issues.
• Print Quality Mode: Choose “Best” or “High Quality” for detailed drawings; use “Normal” for drafts to save ink and time.
• Color Calibration: Periodically run color calibration tools to maintain color accuracy, especially for presentation plots.
• Borderless Printing: Enable when needed, but confirm compatibility with the selected paper size.

Always preview prints and perform test plots on standard paper before printing final versions on premium media.

Q5: How can the HP DesignJet T1300 be reset to factory settings?

If the printer is experiencing configuration errors or performance issues, resetting it to factory defaults can resolve many software-related problems.

• Reset Procedure: Press and hold the small arrow button and the Cancel button simultaneously for about 5 seconds until the display indicates a reset is in progress.
• System Reboot: The printer will restart automatically and revert all settings—such as language, date/time, and network (if applicable)—to their original factory values.
• Verification: Print a self-test report or configuration page from the control panel to confirm that the reset was successful.
• Reconfiguration Required: After resetting, you will need to reconfigure basic settings and reinstall the printer driver on your computer if connectivity is lost.

This reset does not affect firmware or clear ink levels but restores all user-defined preferences. It is recommended before troubleshooting persistent print errors or transferring ownership.