Managing several machines at once can significantly improve efficiency—especially for batch production. In this guide, you’ll learn how to control multiple pen plotters using a single computer, including how to control more than 1 pen plotter and scale your workflow with ease.
This method works perfectly with the iDraw H A3 Pen Plotters, making it ideal for studios, businesses, and production environments.
👉 Recommended Product: iDraw H A3 Pen Plotters
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Why Control Multiple iDraw Machines?
If you're working on bulk writing, generative art, or repetitive drawing tasks, being able to control more iDraw machines simultaneously offers clear advantages:
- Increase production speed without extra labor
- Run multiple designs at the same time
- Scale your business or creative workflow
- Improve consistency across outputs
This setup is widely used in print studios, marketing agencies, and creative workshops worldwide.
What You Need Before Getting Started
- A computer (Windows or Mac) with multiple USB ports
- Two or more iDraw machines (such as the iDraw H A3 Pen Plotters)
- Updated version of Inkscape (compatible with extensions)
- iDraw control extension installed correctly
Tip: Please note that only Inkscape V1.1.2 version is compatible for this function, download link: https://inkscape.org/release/inkscape-1.1/?latest=1
Step 1: Install and Configure the Software
- Install Inkscape on your computer
- Download and extract the iDraw extension files
- Copy the files into the Inkscape user extensions directory
- Restart Inkscape to activate the plugin
After setup, the iDraw control panel should appear inside Inkscape.
Step 2: Connect Multiple iDraw Machines
- Connect two or more pen plotters via USB
- Allow your system to detect each device
- Each machine will be assigned a unique port (e.g., COM ports)
This step is essential to control more than 1 pen plotter independently.
Step 3: Identify and Assign Device Ports
- Open the iDraw control panel in Inkscape
- Go to Options → Config
- Select “Use iDraw port named below”
- Click Apply to view available ports
You will see multiple port names (e.g., COM3, COM11, COM30), each linked to a connected device.
Step 4: Launch Multiple Control Windows
- Open multiple Inkscape windows (one for each machine)
- Assign a different port number in each window
- Match each window to a specific iDraw device
This allows you to control multiple pen plotters at the same time.
Step 5: Start Multi-Machine Plotting
- Load your designs into each Inkscape window
- Adjust settings such as speed and pen type individually
- Start plotting on each machine
You can now fully control more iDraw machines in parallel and increase productivity.
Best Practices for Multi-Machine Control
- Use a powered USB hub when connecting multiple devices
- Organize cables to avoid confusion
- Label each machine for easy identification
- Run a quick test before large production jobs
Why Choose iDraw H A3 Pen Plotters?
- Stable performance for long batch operations
- Large working area for versatile projects
- Compatible with multi-machine control setups
- Suitable for both commercial and creative use
The iDraw H A3 Pen Plotters are an excellent choice for efficiently managing and scaling multi-device workflows.
Conclusion
Learning how to control more than 1 pen plotter from a single computer can transform your workflow. With the right setup, you can easily control multiple pen plotters, reduce manual effort, and significantly increase output efficiency.
Whether you're running a studio or scaling production, this method gives you the flexibility and control you need.