Digital BW, The Print

Dear Digital Printmakers (aka "digital outputters" and "digital printers"), 

Recently there has been another flurry of postings on these two forums regarding "problems" with Piezography.  Perhaps you have read a few. 

There have been claims, complaints and discussions.  There have been hypothesis, theories, guesses,  intelligent discourse and helpful suggestions.  All in the spirit of helping one another as we all brave the frontier as pioneer desktop digital inkjet (Piezography) fine art print makers.  

Notice I say a few choice words here: 

Frontier:  It is a new area we are exploring with new technology and materials (inks/papers). 

Pioneer:  It is your decision to buy something that involves risk and reward.  You are one of the first. 

Desktop:  The printers most of us are using are relatively inexpensive (compared to Iris) and designed for another inkset in the first place.

Digital Inkjet:  The "art" or prints are digital prints using inkjets. Not silver chemistry prints.  

What gets me, is the number of postings by people who are complaining that they are not getting the results they want or expect.   It reminds me of the golfer who blaims his clubs...even though he may have bought the very best clubs available and they are of proven high quality.

My opinion is that if people are unhappy with a product, they are not forced to use it or buy it.  One of the manufacturers I know  (Conetech) has been very good about replacing defective product (if it exists) and helpful with advice, technical support and responses.  Better than most technology related companies in my opinion.  

Still, people complain.  I suppose that is the nature of some people, and some people do have valid complaints.  But what is getting ridiculous (again in my opinion) is the "whining" about it.  (sorry I don't know a more delicate way to put it)

If someone has a problem with a product, I think all the people on this forum may be willing at different times to offer assistance.  Most of us are interested.  Most would like to help.  

But the proclamations that Piezography is "trashing peoples printers" and always leads to unstoppable clogs and other such stuff....is a bunch of "whining" in my opinion.  

Do clogs occur with some people or printers?  Yes.  
Can most of them be cleared and solved?  Yes. 
Do some printers not make the grade for the quality needed for Piezography?  Yes. 

On the other hand: 

Do some people not have any problems with clogs? Yes.
Do some people not have banding? Yes. 
Do some people make beautiful prints with the system?  Yes.

I am amused that some people expect this to be flawless and problem free.  After all, I don't expect that from Windows, my PC, or anyone's Macintosh.  Nor do I expect there to never be a need to repair, maintain or replace my car.  Nor would I expect just anyone to go into a wet darkroom and produce flawless fine art prints, without some hiccups, trashed prints, wasted chemicals and papers, and lots of experimentation and frustration.   It does get hot in the kitchen sometimes. 

Despite the flaws and occasional problems, the Piezography system continues to produce wonderful stunning beautiful prints for most users.  That is what keeps me going with the system.  

A recent post by another Piezographer (whom I greatly respect for his creative talents) pointed to the fact that he has produced "thousands" of prints (which I am sure were of high quality...as his images are of the highest quality) using an inexpensive 1160 and Piezo inks.  Surely that is a testament to the  "success" of a product, even one that is leading edge.  So even though he may have to buy a new printer...or change CIS...it seems to me that there should have been plenty of proof that the system works well in most cases and at most times....and usually with results that a fine photographer would call "quality."  In fact, if he made 2500 prints using a $250 printer, the printer hardware cost per print is only $0.10.  That is about ten cents per print.  At that cost, I would gladly replace the printers on a yearly or less basis.  

So I end this note with the hope that those that are having problems...have a nice day.  Of course keep us informed of problems and resolutions and refer back to the manufacturer when you can't find an answer here on the forum.  I am sure we all want to help...well at least most of us do.

But do us a favor and cut the whining.

With respect and hope for clean nozzles for all, 

Steadman







[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

> But do us a favor and cut the whining.
 
> 
> Steadman


I assume you refer to my recent post.

First, I was not whining. I joined this list to seek advice. I have had 
a bad experience with Piezo. Are you suggesting that only good postings 
on a product should appear?

Jez, my first posting asking for advice on the alternatives is greeted 
with a flame.

Peace be with you,

Ben.