For businesses in the printing trade seeking reliable and cost-effective solutions, having a dependable Vinyl Printer is crucial. Our experience with the VersaCamm VS-300, a trade-only printer, offers valuable insights into its long-term performance and considerations for potential buyers. We’ve operated this machine for numerous years, and it has consistently delivered exceptional service without any major breakdowns.
Initially, we opted for the white ink configuration to meet the demand for clear decals. However, as market trends shifted, the need for white ink diminished. Currently, we utilize those slots for cleaning solution. We explored the possibility of reverting this configuration with tech support, but discovered it’s an irreversible process, carrying the risk of rendering the machine inoperable. Consequently, we’ve adapted to this setup.
Beyond printing, our VersaCamm also serves as a cutter, especially after our dedicated Graphtec cutter malfunctioned. The repair costs for the Graphtec, potentially due to a mainboard issue, were almost equivalent to purchasing a new cutter. To avoid this expense, we repurposed the VersaCamm for cutting tasks. While this solution works, it’s less material-efficient compared to a dedicated cutter due to material waste at both ends of the media.
Alt text: A VersaCAMM VS-300 vinyl printer and cutter machine in operation, highlighting its dual functionality for printing and contour cutting vinyl graphics.
When considering a vinyl printer, media handling is a significant factor. The weight and storage of media rolls, as well as the ease of loading them, should be taken into account. The 30-inch width of the VersaCamm VS-300 is manageable for daily use. While a wider 54-inch model might offer advantages for larger projects, the physical demands of handling heavier, wider rolls on a daily basis are a practical consideration.
Our primary reservation with the VersaCamm VS-300 is its obsolescence. Software updates are no longer available, and the media profiles, particularly for the white ink option, are limited. A past PC failure led to the loss of many custom profiles, leaving us with only a few remaining. Despite these limitations, the VersaCamm has been a worthwhile investment, proving its value and reliability over many years of service. It has undoubtedly paid for itself and continues to be a workhorse for our print and cut needs.
