A standard mechanism holds one printed graphic. The popular sizes are approximately 34”, 36”, 40” and 48”. There are limited choices for 24”, 31" and 60” wide models. The height is generally adjustable from approximately 68” to 92” tall. Some models have a fixed height increment due to the sectional pole design . Most mechanisms are available with a padded carrying bag and either a 1 year or lifetime warranty. The warranty covers just the roller mechanism, not the outside case. Gently raising and lowering the graphic is the best way to keep your unit from needing service or replacement parts. Bases are generally plain aluminum in color; although black is sometimes an option.
The quality of mechanisms: If your needs are daily or weekly usage and/or your unit travels frequently to out-of-area trade shows the Expand line of mechanisms is your best solution. These are top quality units. If your display needs are more local, light duty, or economical; we have many other models from which to select.
Once you determine the mechanism quality, you’ll need to determine whether you need a one sided display or a two sided display. One sided displays are very popular for travelling trade shows, booths and in-store demonstrations with a singular traffic flow. Two sided displays are good for locations with multi-directional traffic, whereby your audience can view both sides of the display. (you need two printed graphics for a two sided display, the material is not two-sided).
For wide image needs, some mechanisms have a very narrow end-to-graphic measurement. When placed end-to-end the image appears as one wide unit. Thus your graphic solution uses two easy to handle mechanisms (rather than one big clumsy mechanism).
The other determining factor when considering a mechanism is graphical change outs. Do you need to change your message frequently or perhaps on-site during a trade show? Some models have user-replaceable cartridges which allow you to rotate several different messages during the course of a business trip or trade show. This reduces your mechanism costs, your travel costs and baggage handling.
The media: There are two types of printable media generally available for retractables. Standard vinyl or trade show quality. Standard vinyl is inexpensive, but has some reverse show through and it curls on the vertical edges. I prefer the blockout type of trade show material. Light from the reverse side is prevented; this allows you to better control the graphical appearance of your message. Blockout material is generally smoother and the edges are more resistant to curling. Some units have a user replaceable graphic; while others need the skill and service area of a shop to install a new graphic onto the roller mechanism. Graphic size templates are available for the mechanisms. Latex or eco-solvent large format machines are the best type to use for outputting retractable banner graphics. UV inks are too hard, the images will crack during the raising and lowering of a retractable mechanism.
Very helpful info, Eric. I bookmarked the blog. Thanks!
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