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HP DesignJet T520
36" technical / CAD plotter
- ModelT520
- Prints36" wide
- Score47/100
Authorized HP dealerGenuine hardware & ink
1-year warranty includedExtension plans available
Free shippingContinental U.S.
Plotter specialistsAEC experts, not just sellers
Analyst take
- The HP T520 36-in is a print-only thermal inkjet machine with no scanning or copying function.
- It supports roll paper and cut sheets, making it practical for routine plans, maps, and color review output.
- HP-GL/2, HP-RTL, and PCL 3 support is relevant to established CAD and technical-document workflows.
Not sure if the T520 is right for you?
Compare key specs and an AI analyst read-out against similar models.
- Wide-format reach Prints up to 36" wide on rolls and sheets.
- Fine detail 2400 x 1200 DPI maximum resolution for crisp line work.
- Ink platform Black, Cyan, Magenta, Yellow.
- Connectivity Wi-Fi + Ethernet for shared team printing.
- Analyst score Scores 47/100 in our class-relative rating.
Overview
Built for the work
HP Designjet T520 36-in Printer, Thermal inkjet, 2400 x 1200 DPI, HP-GL/2, HP-RTL, PCL 3, Black, Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, 11.4 m/p, 9.1 m/p
- 36″Max print width
- 4Ink channels
- 2,400 dpiMax resolution
- 12 moIncluded warranty
Spec Analysis
overall
overall
Where it performs best
Connections
100
Size / Fit
88
Print Quality
65
Class best is 63. How we grade →
Expert analysis
What you should know
Key takeaways
- The HP T520 36-in is a print-only thermal inkjet machine with no scanning or copying function.
- It supports roll paper and cut sheets, making it practical for routine plans, maps, and color review output.
- HP-GL/2, HP-RTL, and PCL 3 support is relevant to established CAD and technical-document workflows.
- Wi-Fi, Fast Ethernet, USB Type-A, and IPv6 support give IT several connection options to evaluate.
- The HP DesignJet T1600dr 36-in is the more suitable catalog option when dual-roll operation is a workflow requirement.
- Compatible supplies listed for this model include HP 711 inks and the HP 711 printhead.
It is 4:45 p.m., the permit set changed again, and somebody needs a clean A0 sheet on bond paper before the courier cutoff. The HP T520 36-in is built for that basic office plotter job: color CAD and PDF output from roll paper or cut sheets, with HP-GL/2, HP-RTL, and PCL 3 support for the drawing files that still turn up in AEC every day.
This is a compact technical printer, not a reprographics department in a black box. It prints in four colors—black, cyan, magenta, and yellow—at up to 2400 x 1200 DPI. Wi-Fi, Fast Ethernet, and USB Type-A give a small design office or site team several ways to submit work. There is no scanner and no copying function, which keeps the job clear: print the drawing; scan it somewhere else.
A0 (33" x 47" (841 x 1189 mm))Maximum print sizeUseful for full-size drawing output.
2400 x 1200 DPIMaximum resolutionFor fine CAD lines and color markup.
9.1 m/pNormal-quality print speedA rated figure, not a promise for a mixed plan set.
86.4 lbs (39.2 kg)WeightWorth checking before assigning it a desk or shelf.
Where it earns its floor space
For architects, engineers, surveyors, and construction teams, the fit is straightforward: issue drawings, color-coded coordination PDFs, site plans, GIS maps, and internal review sheets. The printer accepts bond, plain, recycled, coated, matte, glossy, and photo media, plus cut sheets and roll paper. That flexibility matters when one job is a plain-paper structural set and the next is a color presentation sheet.
The 1 GB of internal memory and supported technical languages are relevant when a CAD workstation sends a complicated file rather than a tidy one-page PDF. They do not remove the usual workflow problems. A badly made PDF remains a badly made PDF. The operator will still be the last line of defense, as nature intended.
Bottom line: This machine fits routine, self-service technical plotting where full-size color output matters more than scanning, copying, or unattended production.
The limits show up when the deadline gets messy
The failure mode is not line quality. It is workflow interruption. This model has one printhead, four cartridges, one RJ-45 port, and no scanning or copying. If the print room must capture marked-up plans, reproduce field redlines, or keep several paper types ready without manual intervention, it is the wrong tool for that particular rush.
For teams whose work is mostly smaller sheets, the HP DesignJet T650 24-in is the more proportionate direction to examine. For a department that needs a 36-inch current catalog model with dual-roll capability, look at the HP DesignJet T1600dr 36-in. That second path matters when switching media is a recurring deadline tax rather than an occasional nuisance. Compare the HP T520 36-in and HP DesignJet T1600dr 36-in around the actual mix of bond sets, coated sheets, and output peaks—not just the largest sheet either machine can print.
Bottom line: The T520 works best when one media path and print-only operation are acceptable; it becomes a bottleneck when jobs require scan-to-copy work or frequent media changes.
Support, supplies, and the installed-base question
For an existing unit, confirm that the machine has the right supplies path before it becomes the only printer standing between the project team and a submission. Compatible supplies listed for this model include HP 711 inks and the HP 711 printhead. The product data also identifies multiple compatible maintenance items. Keep the conversation specific: ask what is on hand, who performs the work, and what happens when the printer stops on a deadline.
Its 48 dB printing sound-pressure figure and 35 W typical power-consumption figure suggest an office-oriented placement, while the 0.3 W standby figure is modest. Those figures do not settle the ownership question. Local service capability, network policy, driver deployment, and the availability of compatible media are usually more consequential than a tidy specification table.
IT should also verify the intended connection method and document workflow. The printer provides Wi-Fi, Fast Ethernet, USB 2.0, IPv6 support, and HP-GL/2, HP-RTL, and PCL 3 page-description languages. Review the technical-printer class ranking alongside the actual files your team sends.
Bottom line: A well-supported T520 can remain useful for straightforward plotting, but it should not be treated as a substitute for a managed scan-copy-print workflow.
Related technical-printer decisions
HP DesignJet T650 24-inA smaller-format option for offices centered on 24-inch output.HP DesignJet T1600dr 36-inA 36-inch dual-roll option for teams with heavier media-switching demands.Compare the two 36-inch HP optionsReview the feature differences against your own workflow.Technical printer rankingsSee this machine within its class.
The read
The HP T520 36-in is a sensible fit for a small AEC office or field location that needs full-size color plans, maps, and review prints from roll or cut-sheet media. It is less appropriate for a central print room, a scan-copy workflow, or any team that routinely changes paper types under deadline. Buy the workflow, not the spec sheet. The spec sheet never has to stand at the output tray at 4:45.
Spec analysis
How the specs grade
Overall performance
- This printer
- Epson SureColor T5475
Category leaders best technical / CAD plotters, by dimension
Verified specifications
The specs that decide it
| Maximum print width | 36 in |
|---|---|
| Print technology | Thermal inkjet |
| Maximum resolution | 1200manufacturer-verified |
| Printing colors | Black, Cyan, Magenta, Yellow |
| Number of print cartridges | 4 |
| Page description languages | HP-GL/2, HP-RTL, PCL 3 |
| Internal memory | 1024 MB |
| Maximum print size | A0 (841 x 1189 mm) |
| Media thickness | 0.29972 mm |
| Maximum roll diameter | 3.9" (9.9 cm) |
| Scanning | No |
| Wi-Fi | Yes |
| Ethernet | Yes |
| Sound level (printing) | 48 dB |
| Power consumption | 35 W |
manufacturer-verified = checked against the manufacturer’s official datasheet, not aggregator data. Everything else is standards-body / catalog data we consider reliable.
Specifications
Full technical detail
Print technologyThermal inkjet
Max resolution2400 x 1200 DPI
Max print width36"
ColorColor
ConnectivityEthernet (Gigabit LAN), USB, Wi-Fi
Use caseCAD / Technical
Printing
| Color | Yes |
|---|---|
| Print head | 1 |
| Printing colors | Black, Cyan, Magenta, Yellow |
| Print technology | Thermal inkjet |
| Maximum resolution | 2400 x 1200 DPI |
| Number of print cartridges | 4 |
| Page description languages | HP-GL/2, HP-RTL, PCL 3 |
| Print speed (best quality) | 11.4 m/p |
| Print speed (normal quality) | 9.1 m/p |
Performance
| Display | LCD |
|---|---|
| Certification | FCC, ICES, EMC/R&TTE, ACMA, RSM, CCC, VCCI, KCC, WEEE, RoHS, REACH, EuP, FEMP |
| Product color | Black |
| Internal memory | 1024 MB |
| Built-in display | Yes |
| Maximum internal memory | 1024 MB |
| Sound power level (standby) | 16 dB |
| Sound pressure level (printing) | 48 dB |
Paper handling
| Cut sheets | Yes |
|---|---|
| Roll paper | Yes |
| Media thickness | 0.29972 mm |
| Roll top margin | 0.197" (5 mm) |
| Print margin roll | 0.197" (5 mm) |
| Maximum print size | A0 (841 x 1189 mm) |
| Maximum roll length | 36" (0.914 m) |
| Maximum roll diameter | 3.9" (9.9 cm) |
| Paper tray media types | Bond paper, Coated paper, Cut sheet, Glossy paper, Matte paper, Photo paper, Plain paper, Recycled paper, Roll |
| ISO A-series sizes (A0…A9) | A0, A1, A2, A3, A4 |
Ports & interfaces
| Wi-Fi | Yes |
|---|---|
| USB port | Yes |
| Ethernet LAN | Yes |
| USB connector | USB Type-A |
| RJ-45 ports quantity | 1 |
| USB 2.0 ports quantity | 1 |
| Ethernet interface type | Fast Ethernet |
| Supported network protocols | IPv6 |
Weight & dimensions
| Weight | 86.4 lbs (39.2 kg) |
|---|
Power
| Power consumption (standby) | 0.3 W |
|---|---|
| Power consumption (typical) | 35 W |
| Power consumption (PowerSave) | 4.5 W |
Operational conditions
| Storage temperature (T-T) | -25 – 55 °C |
|---|---|
| Operating temperature (T-T) | 5 – 40 °C |
Other features
| Safety | CSA, LVD, EN, GOST, PSB, CCC, NYCE |
|---|---|
| Minimum system requirements | Intel Pentium AMD K6/Athlon/Duron 1GB RAM 1GB HDD |
| Compliance industry standards | IEEE 802.3, IEEE 802.3u |
Copying
| Copying | No |
|---|
Scanning
| Scanning | No |
|---|
Packaging data
| Package weight | 136.7 lbs (62 kg) |
|---|
Sustainability
| Sustainability certificates | ENERGY STAR |
|---|
Everything that fits the HP DesignJet T520
The full supplies hub lists every cartridge, printhead, roll and accessory verified against the manufacturer's own documentation for this machine.
14 ink cartridges · 1 printhead · 39 paper & media items · 3 accessories · 6 coverage plans
HP DesignJet T520 ink and paper →Supplies
Compatible ink, printheads & media
Genuine consumables that fit the HP DesignJet T520 914mm Printer — only the cartridges, printheads and media compatible with this model.
Ink Cartridges 13
HP 711 2-pack 80-ml Black Ink Cartridges
HP 711 3-pack 29-ml Cyan/Magenta/Yellow Ink Cartridges
HP 711 29-ml Yellow Ink Cartridge
HP 711 3-pack 29-ml Cyan Ink Cartridges
HP 711 29-ml Magenta Ink Cartridge
HP 711 3-pack 29-ml Yellow Ink Cartridges
HP 711 3-pack 29-ml Magenta Ink Cartridges
HP 711 29-ml Cyan Ink Cartridge
HP 711 80-ml Black Ink Cartridge
HP 711 38-ml Black Ink Cartridge
HP 711B 38-ml Black Ink Cartridge
HP 711B 2-Pack 80-ml Black Ink Cartridges
HP 711B 80-ml Black Ink CartridgePrintheads 1
Paper & Media 23
Representative image8 Mil Microporous Gloss Self-Adhesive PolypropyleneRepresentative image5 Mil Water-Resistant Self-Adh Vinyl (3" AC)Representative imageHP Universal Gloss Photo Paper
HP Universal Coated PaperRepresentative imageHP Universal Bond Paper, 4-pack
HP Universal Bond Paper, 2-packRepresentative imageHP Bright White Inkjet Paper, 4-packRepresentative imageKODAK Universal Self-Adhesive Satin Poly Poster (7 Mil)Representative imageKODAK Production Matte Paper / 170gRepresentative imageMagic 4mil DM Inkjet Film (JR440IJME)Representative imageMagic 4mil Inkjet Clear Film w/ Side Stripe (DMCF4HPS)
HP C3868A plotter paper 45.7 m 91.4 cm
HP C3869A plotter paper
HP C6036A printing paper Matte White
HP Q1444A printing paper Matte
HP Q1445A printing paper Matte
HP Q8834A printing film
HP Q1446A plotter paper 45 m 42 cm
HP CH022A printing film
HP CH023A printing film Polypropylene (PP)
HP 2-pack Everyday Adhesive Matte Polypropylene-610 mm x 22.9 m (24 in x 75 ft)
HP C0F19A printing film
HP C0F28A printing filmAccessories 2
Questions
Straight answers
Can the HP T520 36-in scan marked-up drawings or make copies?
No. The product data lists scanning and copying as unavailable. A separate scanner or multifunction device is needed for redlines, archives, and copy workflows.
What AEC output does this printer suit?
It suits routine full-size plans, color-coded coordination drawings, maps, and PDF review sheets. It supports A0 output and accepts roll paper as well as cut sheets.
Does it work with CAD-oriented print languages?
Yes. The listed page-description languages are HP-GL/2, HP-RTL, and PCL 3. Confirm driver behavior with the actual CAD and PDF files used by your team.
What connections are available?
The printer has Wi-Fi, one Fast Ethernet RJ-45 connection, and one USB 2.0 Type-A port. IPv6 is listed among the supported network protocols.
Which supplies should a buyer confirm for an existing unit?
Confirm access to HP 711 inks and the HP 711 printhead, along with the applicable listed maintenance items. Supply availability and service response should be checked locally before relying on the printer for deadline work.
When should a team consider the HP DesignJet T1600dr 36-in instead?
Consider it when a 36-inch workflow needs dual-roll capability. That is particularly relevant when teams frequently switch media and cannot afford manual paper changes during active print runs.
Ready to put the HP DesignJet T520 to work?
Configuration, media and a quote tailored to your workflow — from AEC plotter specialists.