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HP DesignJet 4520ps
42" color graphics & photo printer
- Model4520ps
- Prints42" wide
- Score56/100
Authorized HP dealerGenuine hardware & ink
Manufacturer warrantyExtension plans available
Free shippingContinental U.S.
Plotter specialistsAEC experts, not just sellers
Analyst take
- The HP 4520ps supports 42-inch media and accepts up to two input rolls for shared AEC plotting.
- Its stated minimum line width of 0.00276 inches and line accuracy of +/- 0.1% are relevant to detailed technical drawings.
- PDF 1.5, PostScript 3, a 160 GB hard drive, and Gigabit Ethernet support a networked submission workflow.
Not sure if the 4520ps is right for you?
Compare key specs and an AI analyst read-out against similar models.
- Wide-format reach Prints up to 42" wide on rolls and sheets.
- Fine detail 2400 x 1200 DPI maximum resolution for crisp line work.
- Ink platform Black, Cyan, Yellow, Magenta.
- Connectivity Ethernet for shared team printing.
- Analyst score Scores 56/100 in our class-relative rating.
Overview
Built for the work
HP Designjet 4520ps, 2400 x 1200 DPI, PDF 1.5, PostScript 3, Black, Cyan, Yellow, Magenta, 610 x 1067 mm, 0.4 mm, 6889.8" (175 m)
Spec Analysis
overall
overall
Expert analysis
What you should know
Key takeaways
- The HP 4520ps supports 42-inch media and accepts up to two input rolls for shared AEC plotting.
- Its stated minimum line width of 0.00276 inches and line accuracy of +/- 0.1% are relevant to detailed technical drawings.
- PDF 1.5, PostScript 3, a 160 GB hard drive, and Gigabit Ethernet support a networked submission workflow.
- The four-color HP 90 ink system supports color documents, but no measured ICC gamut data is available here.
- No scanner or USB port is listed, so it is better aligned with network plotting than scan/copy-led or walk-up workflows.
- The discontinued HP DesignJet T918 36-in is a scanner/MFP comparison point, not a direct 42-inch replacement.
A coordination drawing is judged first by its quiet essentials: the hairline that remains separate from its neighbor, the note that stays readable at the edge of a dense detail, and the magenta revision cloud that does not swallow the line beneath it. The HP 4520ps is a 42-inch, four-color wide-format printer built around those everyday AEC demands, with a stated minimum line width of 0.00276 inches and line accuracy of +/- 0.1%.
Its practical appeal is the combination of two roll inputs, PDF 1.5 and PostScript 3 support, an internal hard drive, and Gigabit Ethernet for shared plotting. That makes it credible for CAD sheets, PDF issue sets, color-coded engineering plans, GIS maps, and presentation output where ordinary bond, coated stock, film, photo paper, or glossy paper may all have a role.
42"Maximum media widthRoll media supported
+/- 0.1%Line accuracyA specification that matters for scaled drawing output
2400 x 1200 DPIMaximum resolutionSpecified best-quality color resolution
2Roll capacityMaximum roll input
Where the configuration earns its place
Two loaded rolls are the feature most likely to change the rhythm of an AEC print room. A team can keep common plan paper available alongside coated paper or another approved medium, reducing interruptions when a set alternates between construction sheets and client-facing color exhibits. The specified media range is 50 to 328 g/m², with media thickness up to 0.016 inches; opaque film and photo media are also supported.
The 160 GB internal storage and embedded web server give print-room and IT staff useful infrastructure for a networked device. One RJ-45 Gigabit Ethernet connection is provided, and the machine supports JetDirect-compatible products. PDF 1.5 and PostScript 3 matter because they reduce dependence on application-specific plotting paths for many submitted documents; they do not, by themselves, guarantee that every complex PDF will process identically. Check the available evaluation approach alongside a representative set of your own PDFs before standardizing a workflow.
For color, the four inks are Black, Cyan, Yellow, and Magenta, using the compatible HP 90 ink and printhead family. The 5 pl cyan, magenta, and yellow drops and 15 pl black drops describe the ink-delivery system, not a promise of photographic color accuracy. We have no measured ICC gamut data for this machine, so it would be overconfident to make a gamut claim. Evaluate proof-like presentation work on the media you actually specify; the difference often lives in the cyan edge of a pale aerial image.
Fit, limitations, and the closest catalog comparison
This is particularly well suited to a shared engineering or architecture department that needs 42-inch rolls, recurring PDF and PostScript plotting, and occasional color documents on more than one media type. Its stated maximum print size is 24 x 42 inches. At 407.9 lb and with typical power consumption specified at 500 W, it belongs in a planned print-room location rather than an improvised desk-side corner. Printing sound pressure is specified at 53 dB.
It may be less appropriate where scanning and copying are central to the workflow: no scanner is listed for this unit. The catalog’s named in-family alternative is the discontinued HP DesignJet T918 36-in, which is a 36-inch scanner/MFP rather than a simple step-up in width. It is relevant when scan/copy capability outweighs 42-inch media handling, but not as a like-for-like replacement. For a current 44-inch cross-brand comparison, review the HP 4520ps alongside the Canon GP-4000 44-in and validate media, service, and application requirements locally.
The published operating-system list is rooted in Windows Vista, Windows Server 2008, Windows XP, Server 2003, older Mac OS X releases, and Linux. Modern desktop deployment therefore deserves a practical driver and queue test rather than an assumption. There is no USB port listed, reinforcing the expectation of a network-centered installation.
Compare the workflow, not just the width
HP DesignJet T918 36-inA discontinued 36-inch scanner/MFP option for scan-and-copy-led workflows.Canon GP-4000 44-inA current 44-inch alternative in the catalog for a wider-format comparison.Compare HP 4520ps and Canon GP-4000 44-inReview the two machines side by side.Wide-format class rankingPlace this configuration within the relevant product class.
Questions to settle before installation
Confirm that 220–240 VAC power is available at the intended location; this model specifies 3 A at 50/60 Hz. Measure the full operating area, not only the machine footprint, and establish who will load rolls, manage the HP 90 consumables, and handle queue interruptions. For organizations with accounting or access-control requirements, ask the dealer to demonstrate the proposed workflow through the embedded web server and network environment rather than assuming that a hard drive or Ethernet connection supplies those policies by itself.
The read
The HP 4520ps is a credible fit for a networked AEC plot room that values 42-inch roll capability, two loaded media sources, and PDF/PostScript submission. Its line-focused specifications and broad stated media support make sense for plans, maps, and mixed technical/presentation work. The trade-off is that it is a large, power-specific printer without listed scanning or USB connectivity, and its published desktop-platform list warrants validation in a current IT environment. Choose it for disciplined shared plotting; look elsewhere when integrated scan/copy or a different width is the primary requirement.
Spec analysis
How the specs grade
Overall performance
within color graphics & photo printers · 10 compared
Class best 79 — Epson SureColor T7770DR
58% spec coverage
- This printer
- Epson SureColor T7770DR
Category leaders best color graphics & photo printers, by dimension
Verified specifications
The specs that decide it
| Maximum resolution | 2400 x 1200 DPI |
|---|---|
| Printing colors | Black, Cyan, Yellow, Magenta |
| Number of print cartridges | 4 |
| Page description languages | PDF 1.5, PostScript 3 |
| Maximum print size | 610 x 1067 mm |
| Media thickness | 0.4 mm |
| Maximum roll diameter | 7.09" (18 cm) |
| Ethernet | Yes |
| Sound level (printing) | 53 dB |
| Power consumption | 500 W |
Specifications
Full technical detail
Max resolution2400 x 1200 DPI
Max print width42"
ColorColor
ConnectivityEthernet (Gigabit LAN)
Use caseCAD / Technical
Printing
| Color | Yes |
|---|---|
| Printing colors | Black, Cyan, Yellow, Magenta |
| Maximum resolution | 2400 x 1200 DPI |
| Print head nozzles | 524 |
| Number of print cartridges | 4 |
| Page description languages | PDF 1.5, PostScript 3 |
Performance
| Storage media | HDD |
|---|---|
| Built-in processor | Intel® Celeron® |
| Processor frequency | 2000 MHz |
| Internal storage capacity | 160 GB |
| Sound power level (standby) | 38 dB |
| Sound pressure level (printing) | 53 dB |
Paper handling
| Roll paper | Yes |
|---|---|
| Media thickness | 0.4 mm |
| Maximum print size | 610 x 1067 mm |
| Maximum media width | 1067 mm |
| Maximum roll length | 6889.8" (175 m) |
| Maximum roll diameter | 7.09" (18 cm) |
| Recommended media weight | 50 – 328 g/m² |
Ports & interfaces
| USB port | No |
|---|---|
| Ethernet LAN | Yes |
| RJ-45 ports quantity | 1 |
| Ethernet LAN data rates | 10,100,1000 Mbit/s |
| Ethernet interface type | Gigabit Ethernet |
| Firewire (IEEE 1394) ports | 1 |
Weight & dimensions
| Weight | 407.9 lbs (185 kg) |
|---|---|
| Size (imperial) | 42" |
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | 76 x 31.5 x 53.1" (1930 x 800 x 1350 mm) |
| Maximum dimensions (W x D x H) | 76 x 31.5 x 53.1" (1930 x 800 x 1350 mm) |
| Product dimensions when open (LxWxD) | 76" |
Power
| Power requirements | 220 – 240 VAC (+/- 10%), 3 A; 50/60 Hz (+/- 3 Hz) |
|---|---|
| Power consumption (off) | 1 W |
| Power consumption (standby) | 105 W |
| Power consumption (typical) | 500 W |
| Power consumption (PowerSave) | 63 W |
Operational conditions
| Storage temperature (T-T) | -20 – 55 °C |
|---|---|
| Operating temperature (T-T) | 41 – 104 °F |
| Storage relative humidity (H-H) | 0 – 95% |
| Operating relative humidity (H-H) | 20 – 80% |
Other features
| Ink drop | 5 pl (C, M, Y), 15 pl (K) |
|---|---|
| Opaque film | Yes |
| Photo paper | Yes |
| Coated paper | Yes |
| Glossy paper | Yes |
| Line accuracy | +/- 0.1% |
| Minimum line width | 0.00276" (0.0700 mm) |
| Roll maximum input | 2 |
| Embedded web server | Yes |
| Maximum internal memory | 1.12 GB |
| Minimum system requirements | Intel Pentium 4 (1 GHz), 512 MB RAM, 2 GB HDD |
| JetDirect Compatible Products | Y |
| Print quality (color, best quality) | 2400 DPI |
| Print quality (black, draft quality) | 1200 DPI |
| Print quality (black, normal quality) | 1200 DPI |
| Minimum system requirements for Macintosh | PowerPC G3 / Intel Core, 512 MB RAM, 1 GB HDD |
Packaging data
| Package weight | 501.1 lbs (227.3 kg) |
|---|---|
| Bundled software | HP Designjet |
| Drivers included | Yes |
| Package dimensions (WxDxH) | 83.9 x 30.5 x 52" (2130 x 775 x 1320 mm) |
Sustainability
| Sustainability certificates | ENERGY STAR |
|---|
System requirements
| Compatible operating systems | – Windows Vista (32/64-bit), Windows Server 2008 (32/64-bit), XP Home & Professional (32/64-bit), Server 2003 (32/64-bit) – Mac OS X v10.4, v10.5 – Linux |
|---|---|
| Recommended system requirements | Intel Pentium 4 (1 GHz), 1 GB RAM, 2 GB HDD |
Everything that fits the HP DesignJet 4520ps
The full supplies hub lists every cartridge, printhead, roll and accessory verified against the manufacturer's own documentation for this machine.
9 ink cartridges · 5 printheads · 66 paper & media items · 2 accessories
HP DesignJet 4520ps ink and paper →Supplies
Compatible ink, printheads & media
Genuine consumables that fit the HP DesignJet 4520ps 42-in — only the cartridges, printheads and media compatible with this model.
Ink Cartridges 9
HP 90 3-pack 400-ml Yellow Ink Cartridges print head Thermal inkjet
HP 90 3-pack 400-ml Magenta Ink Cartridges print head Thermal inkjet
HP 90 3-pack 400-ml Cyan Ink Cartridges print head Thermal inkjet
HP 90 3-pack 775-ml Black Ink Cartridges print head Thermal inkjet
HP 90 400-ml Cyan Ink Cartridge
HP 90 400-ml Yellow Ink Cartridge
HP 90 400-ml Black Ink Cartridge
HP 90 400-ml Magenta Ink Cartridge
HP 90 775-ml Black Ink CartridgePrintheads 5
Paper & Media 66
HP Q1733A printing paper Matte 1 sheets White
HP C3868A plotter paper 45.7 m 91.4 cm
HP C3869A plotter paper
HP Q1420A photo paper Brown, White
HP Matte Film 610 mm x 38.1 m (24 in x 125 ft)
HP Reverse Print Matte Backlit Film
HP C6035A large format media 45.7 m
HP C6036A printing paper Matte White
HP C6567B plotter paper
HP Universal Semi-gloss Photo Paper
HP Clear Film 174 gsm-610 mm x 22.9 m (24 in x 75 ft)
HP Q1421A photo paper Brown, White
HP Q1730A large format media 30.5 m
HP Adhesive Vinyl 914 mm x 12.2 m (36 in x 40 ft)
HP Q1956A large format media 67.5 m
HP Q1961A large format media
HP Q1962A large format media
HP C7949A large format media 30.5 m Matte
HP Q6579A photo paper Brown, White
HP Q6580A photo paper Matte
HP Q6581A photo paper
HP Q1441A large format media 45.7 m
HP Q1442A large format media 45.7 m
HP Q1444A printing paper Matte
HP Q1445A printing paper Matte
HP Q7897A large format media 45.7 m
HP Q7971A printing paper Semi-gloss 1 sheets White
HP Q7970A printing paper A3+ (330×483 mm) Semi-gloss 50 sheets White
HP Universal Bond Paper 841 mm x 91.4 m large format media 3598.4" (91.4 m)
HP Q8004A large format media 91.4 m
HP Q8677A printing film
HP Universal Adhesive Vinyl 914 mm x 20 m (36 in x 66 ft)
HP Q8049A large format media 30.5 m
HP Q7991A photo paper
HP Aquarella Fine Art Paper-914 mm x 10.7 m (36 in x 35 ft)
HP Aquarella Art Paper-610 mm x 10.7 m (24 in x 35 ft)
HP Q8751A large format media 175 m
HP Q8834A printing film
HP Q8835A printing film
HP Q8910A printing paper Semi-gloss 1 sheets White
HP Prof Semi-gloss Contract Proofing Paper-914 mm x 30.5 m (36 in x 100 ft)
HP CG490A large format media 30.5 m Semi-gloss
HP Premium Semi-gloss Proofing Paper-50 sht/A3+/330 mm x 483 mm (13 x 19 in)
HP CG459A photo paper Matte
HP Premium Matte Photo Paper-914 mm x 30.5 m (36 in x 100 ft) large format media
HP CG463A large format media 30.5 m Semi-gloss
HP CG462A printing paper Semi-gloss White
HP Q1446A plotter paper 45 m 42 cm
HP Vivid White Glossy Polyester Film
HP PVC-free Banner-914 mm x 15.2 m (36 in x 50 ft)
HP CG816A large format media 15.2 m Matte
HP Vivid White Glossy Polyester Film
HP Cockle-free Heavyweight Coated Paper-914 mm x 30.5 m (36 in x 100 ft)
HP Cockle-free Heavyweight Coated Paper-1067 mm x 30.5 m (42 in x 100 ft)
HP CG822A large format media 22.9 m
HP CG884A large format media 45.7 m Matte
HP CG885A large format media 45.7 m Matte
HP Durable Banner w/ DuPont Tyvek 914 mm x 22.9 m (36 in x 75 ft) large format media Matte
HP Cockle-free Heavyweight Coated Paper-610 mm x 30.5 m (24 in x 100 ft)
HP Cockle-free Coated Paper-610 mm x 45.7 m (24 in x 150 ft)
HP CG892A large format media
HP CG889A large format media 45.7 m
HP CG890A plotter paper
HP CG891A large format media 45 m
HP Self-adhesive Indoor Paper-610 mm x 22.9 m (24 in x 75 ft)
HP Self-adhesive Indoor Paper-1067 mm x 22.9 m (42 in x 75 ft)
Questions
Straight answers
What AEC work is the HP 4520ps suited to?
It fits shared CAD and PDF plotting, construction-document sets, color-coded engineering drawings, GIS maps, and presentation-oriented output. Its two-roll input is useful when teams regularly alternate between plan paper and another approved medium.
How wide can the HP 4520ps print?
The maximum media width is 42 inches. The stated maximum print size is 24 x 42 inches.
Can it handle fine lines and small drawing details?
HP specifies a minimum line width of 0.00276 inches and line accuracy of +/- 0.1%. Those specifications are relevant to technical linework, but a buyer should still test the firm’s own CAD and PDF files.
Does the HP 4520ps scan and copy drawings?
No scanner or copying capability is listed in the supplied product data. The HP DesignJet T918 36-in is the named in-family scanner/MFP comparison, although it is a 36-inch discontinued model.
How does it connect to a network?
It has one RJ-45 port with Gigabit Ethernet and an embedded web server, and it is compatible with JetDirect products. No USB port is listed.
What should IT verify before deploying it?
Test the driver and queue workflow with current workstations and representative PDF files. The published compatibility list names older Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux environments, so current-platform behavior should be confirmed in the organization’s own environment.
Ready to put the HP DesignJet 4520ps to work?
Configuration, media and a quote tailored to your workflow — from AEC plotter specialists.