Hydrocarbon Data Systems
How to Print Continuous Log Plots
 
These printers or style of printers are ranked according to their ability to print the longest length of continuous paper.
 
  • Best Length  - Epson Stylus color 1520 or 3000  the 3000 series has a larger ink cartridge and is more durable.
  • Mid Length - DesignJet Plotters.
  • Short Length – HP DeskJet.
  • Single Sheet – LaserJets, HP ColorSmarts and many others.
The Epson Stylus is the best choice because it’s driver allows you to plot the full 11” length of the paper without a unwanted forced page feed.  The log appears continuous but is really sent out the printer in 11 inch segments. We have tested this segmenting process in excess of 650 inches on these devices.  There are several divers available from Epson that do not allow the full 11”print length. Check the data below for your match.
 

In contrast the HP DesignJets allow only 108” of drawing at a time and then force a paper margin that cannot be disabled.
 
Epson Stylus Color Models 1520 / 3000
 

For Continuous Plot use
 
  • Set Paper Source = Manual Slot Feed (Banner).
  • Set Paper Size = Letter, 8.5 x 11”.
  • Set Paper Size = Long Paper, 17 x 11”  This optional size allow active drawing areas from 2 - 13.6 inches.

Win NT/2000/XP
 
  • Driver file from Epson.com: S15212DE.exe (only DE allows 11" height).
  • Max Plot Height =  >700 in. in Vector Mode.

Win 95/98/Me
 
  • Driver file from Epson.com: S1522AE.exe.
  • Max Plot Height =  44 in. in Vector Mode.
  • Max Plot Height =  +- 120 in. in Raster Mode.

For Print Speed
 
  • Good fast results at 360 Dpi (check Hi-Speed).
  • No apparent changes using 360 dpi (with Micro Weave).
  • 720 Dpi is extremely slow.
HP DesignJet Models
 
  • Good mid range size Continuous plot.
  • Max Plot Height =  +- 108 in.
  • Set Paper Source = 24” or 36” roll.
  • Set Paper Size = Custom (HDS will automatically set size).
  • Set to “No Zoom Smart Scaling”.
  • Use perforated Roll Feed paper.
HP DeskJet  Models 600 / 700 Series
 

For short Continuous Plots
 
  • Max Plot Height =  <44 in.
  • Shift Blue lever to right for Banner Feed.
  • Set Paper Type  = Plain Paper or Other.
  • Paper Style = Banner (not sheet feed).
  • Set Paper Size = 8.5 x 11”.

This printer is sheet feed  device that can be altered to simulate continuous paper.
 
HP DeskJet  Model 1600 ColorSmart
 
  • Sheet feed only.