Gerber’s JETSTER

A few years ago, digital-printing-technology choices were simple — thermal printing was the only reliable option. Today, the landscape has changed. UV-stable inks and durable media selections have matured, and a slew of solvent (here, this is a generic term, because not all solutions use true solvents) inkjet printers are available.

Shootouts between products are common, product-review topics. Typically, reviewers receive a set of similar products, such as cameras and printers to field test and critique. Our product shootout, however, differs, because we reviewed two products from the same manufacturer, Gerber Scientific Products. Basically, we reviewed two printers with different imaging means — Gerber’s Jetster 62 inkjet system and Maxx 2 thermal-transfer unit.

The goal of our article is not to determine which technology is better, but rather, to determine each printer’s significant points.

Jetster specs

Gerber’s newest product offerings are its Jetster 46 and 62 eco-solvent inkjet printers. Other than their platen widths, the printers are the same. They’re ruggedly built and require ample space for proper operation. The 46-in. version weighs 275 lbs. (including stand), and the 62-in. version weighs a hefty 394 lbs.

For placement of your printer, be sure to consider the room required to load media. The Jetster 46’s dimensions are approximately 70 in. long x 28 in. wide x 53 in. high; the Jetster 62’s measurements are nearly the same, except its length is 94 in.

Both printers can operate on 100 to 120VAC or 200 to 240VAC. The frequency should be approximately 50/60 Hz. Current should be 10A for 110VAC or 5A for a 220 circuit. The operating temperature range is pretty standard (50