If you plan to print very short runs of posters, banners, displays, or maps, look for a wide-format printer. These devices use inkjet and similar technologies to print directly from computer files.

Wide-format devices operate like oversized desktop printers. Preparing files requires similar sills and software, but the devices print on wide rolls instead of office-size sheets. To have better tiling and printing result, a high quality RIP (Raster Image Processor) may be necessary. Substrates can include films for backlit displays, artist canvas, and plastics for outdoor ads as well as a variety of paper.

Wide-format devices can be found at Quick Print and Sign Shops, Reprographic and Blueprint companies, and Photo Developing and Prepress Centres. Some screen, offset, and flexography printers use the devices to make proofs as well as produce end products.