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An alphabetical guide to some of the new systems and software to come out of North America’s largest tradeshow for the printing industry.
Adobe
As previously mentioned in PrintAction magazine, two new versions of Adobe Postscript 3 version 3017 are available to OEMs: the Host Edition for creative and print production professionals and the Embedded Edition for office workgroups (built into laser printers and multi-function devices). Adobe also announced that it received ISO standards approval for its PDF/archive solution.
Agfa launched a new line of thermal platesetters in both VLF and LF 45-inch models, called Avalon, featuring the new Avalon HD Imaging Head that has up to 512 imaging beams delivering an exceptionally fast writing speed at a relatively low drum rotational speed Avalon will replace the Xcalibur line of platesetters and will be compatible with its chemistry-free plate – Azura.
Agfa also added new proofing and output capabilities to ApogeeX with ApogeeX Prime and ApogeeX Imager. The company also introduced the Digital Solutions Suites that combine elements of Agfa's hardware, software and services like ApogeeX, Delano, Expert Services, Salient and Arcadia.
Canto announced it will integrate its Cumulus software with Kodak's RealTimeProof system to leverage DAM through remote proofing, approval management and colour management. The RealTimeProof client application can be invoked from the web, after selecting the asset using the Cumulus web application or the Cumulus native client application. The integration also taps into the version control system Cumulus offers, allowing to search for specific versions by annotation or to visually compare different versions of the same asset.
DeskNet released ContentWelder 5 with enhancements that include expanded multi-platform capabilities to integrate into most corporate infrastructure. Also, customer communications designed in QuarkXPress are now accessible throughout the enterprise to any user with a browser. ContentWelder 5 is designed to increase server throughput to deliver millions of high-volume, highly graphical personalized communications.
Dupont, for the first time, presented its Artistri digital printing system for textiles, which includes the Artistri 2020 printer, Artistri ink, and Artistri software. According to DuPont, Artistri is optimized for printing of swimwear, interior furnishings, banners, flags and backdrops, soft signage and trade show booth graphics.
As previously mentioned in PrintAction magazine, EFI launched its next-generation Fiery System 7 software, using Fiery Q- and S-Series servers. Fiery System 7 increases the application’s colour print functionality and includes more variable data printing support. EFI also released new features in version 2.6 of Colorproof XF, which offers client/server-based proofing with inkjet and laser printers. Dot Creator is a new option for composite or separated proofs and printouts to be generated from continuous-tone data without using an imagesetter or platesetter RIP. EFI also announced its PrinterSite Exchange will integrate with Logic MIS System to improved order capture and invoicing, as well as web job submission as a core MIS function.
Esko-Graphics introduced the Cyrel Digital Imager (CDI) Spark 4260, a flexo imager designed for all digital flexo plates up to 42 x 60 inches. The CDI Spark 4260 provides variable resolutions from 2,000 to 4,000 ppi and is capable of screen rulings up to 200 lpi, depending on imaging resolution. The CDI Spark 4260 uses the same external drum imaging design as all CDI imagers, and is built to accept optional In-line UV main exposure units. Esko also introduced the Kongsberg XF10, a small-format dieless cutting table.
As previously mentioned in PrintAction magazine, Fujifilm (all availability in this country should be confirmed with Fuji Graphic Systems Canada) debuted its process-less thermal plate, called Brillia HD PRO-T, rated at 100,000 impressions and slated to launch in Q1 2006. Fuji is also said to have a chemistry-free violet photopolymer CTP plate slated for a 2007 launch, if a suitable laser can be manufactured.
Fujifilm is introducing two new inkjet proofing medias: Fujifilm Glossy and Satin Inkjet. Fujifilm also introduced a new screening software bundle, which includes both Fujifilm’s Co-Res and TAFFETA screening technologies. Co-Res screening allows customers to print high-screen rulings while using standard output resolutions, while TAFFETA screening is second order FM software that incorporates Fujifilm’s Image Intelligence. Fuji also partnered with Rampage Systems to deliver the new Rampage JVX solution.
Flint introduced a new generation of energy curable litho inks, which it claims to be the first sheetfed inks that utilize similar resin and photoinitiator technology. The ArrowStar UV 7700 formulations are aimed at commercial printing, direct mail, folding carton, label, and business-forms producers. Tests have demonstrated continued press stability at speeds of 18,000 iph for sheetfed applications and 15,000 fpm for forms. Flint also released its new Arroweb ink system for heatset printing applications.
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