InfoTrends Inc. News Wire

Verizon Wireless Announces Availability of Motorola’s MOTO Q 9c

InfoTrends 2008 — Fri, 09 May 2008 18:00:00 EDT

Verizon Wireless announced that the MOTO Q 9c will be available in the company's online store and in Verizon Wireless business sales channels on May 9. Customers will be able to purchase the newest member of Verizon Wireless' MOTO Q family at Verizon Wireless Communications Stores, including those in Circuit City, in the coming weeks.

The MOTO Q 9c offers access to more than 14 million points of interest with Verizon Wireless' popular VZ Navigator service. The phone will also offer the following features and capabilities:

Windows Mobile 6 Standard: Access to POP3 or IMAP4 e mail accounts
Documents To Go: Read, edit, and create Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint documents
Full QWERTY keyboard with dedicated "hot keys" for shortcuts to popular applications
2.4" color screen with innovative adaptive technology to adjust for optimized brightness for indoor and outdoor lighting to maximize battery power
1.3 megapixel camera with flash and fixed focus, plus video capture and playback
128 MB of on board memory and optional removable memory future proofed up to 32 GB (sold separately)
Voice activated dialing
Smart contacts dialing
Speakerphone
Stereo Bluetooth wireless technology supporting both Bluetooth A2DP and AVRCP profiles

MOTO Q 9c will be available for $249.99 after a $50 mail in rebate and a new two year customer agreement. An additional $100 credit toward the purchase of the handset is available for customers who sign up for qualifying voice and data plans at the time of purchase. Verizon Wireless Nationwide E mail plans for MOTO Q 9c begin at $79.99 for 450 anytime voice minutes and unlimited e mail. VZ Navigator is also available for $9.99 for monthly access.

Canon Introduces Selphy CP770 and CP760 Compact Photo Printers to Japanese Market

InfoTrends 2008 — Wed, 07 May 2008 18:00:00 EDT

Canon, Inc. and Canon Marketing Japan, Inc. announced the introduction to the Japanese market of two new SELPHY compact photo printers enabling the easy printing of photos captured by digital cameras and camera phones without the need for a PC: the Canon Selphy CP770 and CP760.

The Selphy CP770, targeting families with small children, represents a new concept in compact dye sublimation photo printers. The unit includes a bucket like carrier basket in which all of the accessories required for printing can be stored, which not only facilitates quick and easy setup and cleanup, but also makes the printer highly portable, enabling users to conveniently print photos most anywhere. The CP770�s attractive design features rounded edges and an orange body color that conveys an appealing, user friendly impression.

The Selphy CP760, which succeeds the CP740 launched in June 2007, includes a 2.5 inch color LCD monitor, enlarged from the 2.0 inch monitor of its predecessor, and realizes increased operating ease through an improved user interface.

Supporting easy use by any member of the family, both new Selphy printers are equipped with large, color coded operating buttons for frequently used basic functions, such as the printing of L size (89 x 119 mm) borderless photos. The CP770 and CP760 also contribute to trouble free printing procedures through menu screens with helpful displays and guidance in seven languages, including English, Japanese, and simplified Chinese. The two new Canon compact photo printers incorporate Portrait Image Optimizer, which detects faces within a photo and automatically corrects brightness and contrast to make possible optimal results, even for photos in which the subjects appear under strongly backlit conditions.

The Selphy CP770 will be available Mid June 2008 20,000 units/mo. The Selphy CP760 will open May 15, 2008 120,000 units/mo.

Clearwire and Sprint Nextel Enter Agreement to Combine Wireless Broadband Businesses

InfoTrends 2008 — Wed, 07 May 2008 18:00:00 EDT

Clearwire Corporation and Sprint Nextel Corporation announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement to combine their wireless broadband businesses to form a new wireless communications company. The new company, which will be named Clearwire, will be focused on expediting the deployment of the first nationwide mobile WiMAX network to provide a true mobile broadband experience for consumers, businesses, enterprises, public safety organizations, and educational institutions. The new Clearwire expects to enhance the speed and manner in which customers access the Internet at home, in the office, and on the road.

Sprint and Clearwire also announced that Intel Corporation, Google Inc., Comcast Corporation, Time Warner Cable Inc., and Bright House Networks have collectively agreed to invest $3.2 billion into the new company. The investment by the five strategic investors will be based on a target price of $20.00 per share of Clearwire's common stock, subject to a post closing adjustment. This adjustment is based upon the trading prices of new Clearwire common stock on the NASDAQ Market over 15 randomly selected trading days during the 30 trading day period ending on the 90th day after the closing date. The price per share will be based upon the volume weighted average price on such days and is subject to a cap of $23.00 per share and a floor of $17.00 per share.

Upon completion of the proposed transaction, Sprint will own the largest stake in the new company with approximately 51% equity ownership on a fully diluted basis assuming an investment price of $20.00 per share. The existing Clearwire shareholders will own approximately 27% and the new strategic investors, as a group, will be acquiring approximately 22% for their investment of $3.2 billion, on a fully diluted basis assuming an investment price of $20.00 per share.

Sprint and Clearwire also announced a series of commercial agreements with the strategic investors, including 3G and 4G wholesale agreements.

The new Clearwire expects to offer mobile wireless Internet services on a broad array of new devices that will be made possible by integrated WiMAX chipsets, scalable operating expenses and a commitment to an open architecture.

Mobile WiMAX is a standards based wireless broadband technology designed to operate multiple times faster than today's 3G wireless networks. With embedded WiMAX chipsets in laptops, phones, PDAs, mobile Internet devices and consumer electronic equipment, mobile WiMAX technology is expected to allow users to wirelessly access a range of multimedia applications, such as live videoconferencing, recorded video, games, large data files and more anywhere in the network coverage area.

The transaction has been approved by all of the parties' boards of directors, and is expected to be completed during the fourth quarter of 2008. The transaction is subject to various closing conditions.

Xerox Unveils Preliminary Technology for Self-Erasing Paper

InfoTrends 2008 — Tue, 06 May 2008 18:00:00 EDT

Xerox Corporation scientists announced that they have invented a way to make prints whose images last only a day, so that the paper can be used again and again. The technology, which is still in a preliminary state, blurs the line between paper documents and digital displays and could ultimately lead to a significant reduction in paper use.

The experimental printing technology, a collaboration between the Xerox Research Centre of Canada and PARC (Palo Alto Research Center Inc.), could someday replace printed pages that are used for just a brief time before being discarded. Xerox estimates that as many as two out of every five pages printed in the office are for what it calls "daily" use, like e mails, Web pages and reference materials that have been printed for a single viewing.

Xerox has filed for patents on the technology, which it calls "erasable paper." It is currently part of a laboratory project that focuses on the concept of future dynamic documents. To develop erasable paper, researchers needed to identify ways to create temporary images. The "a ha" moment came from developing compounds that change color when they absorb a certain wavelength of light but then will gradually disappear. In its present version, the paper self erases in about 16 24 hours and can be used multiple times.

While scientists at XRCC work on the chemistry of the technology, their counterparts at PARC the birthplace of the laser printer are investigating ways to build a device that could write the image onto the special paper. PARC researchers developed a prototype "printer" that creates the image on the paper using a light bar that provides a specific wavelength of light as a writing source. The written image fades naturally over time or can be immediately erased by exposing it to heat.

Temporary documents are part of Xerox's ongoing investments in sustainable innovation or "green products" that deliver measurable benefits to the environment, such as solid ink printing technology, which generates 90 percent less waste than comparable laser printers; more energy efficient printers, copiers and multifunction devices; and other paper saving innovations.

Presstek Announces UV Printing Option for Its DI Presses at drupa

InfoTrends 2008 — Fri, 02 May 2008 18:00:00 EDT

Presstek, Inc. announced that it will be introducing a UV printing option for the Presstek 52DI and 34DI digital offset presses at drupa, the world's largest printing trade show scheduled for May 29th through June 11th, 2008, at the Messe Dusseldorf in Germany. More than 400,000 visitors from 122 countries are expected to attend this show where Presstek will be showcasing the UV option on the Presstek 52DI in Hall 04, Stand A55.

UV printing represents a significant growth opportunity for print service providers. With the DI implementation, even faster turnaround is achieved with the UV waterless inks drying instantly as each sheet exits onto a transport ramp, under UV lights and into a high pile delivery system. UV waterless inks have the potential to achieve greater densities than conventional waterless inks and provide superior printing on a full range of plastics and specialty substrates, including lenticular. Faster drying times and high fidelity reproduction on non porous materials and uncoated stocks result in faster turnaround times and a higher quality process for the production of labels, direct mail, packaging, point of purchase materials and general commercial printing. These lightfast inks also offer increased durability and quality when printing on foils, vinyls, films and plastics.

Two UV printing options will be available for both the Presstek 52DI and 34DI, including field upgrades. The breakthrough hybrid UV option that allows for switching between standard waterless and UV waterless inks will be available in the fourth quarter of 2008. The UV option for operating the DI as a UV waterless press will be available in the third quarter of 2008.

Presstek 52DI and 34DI digital offset presses deliver environmentally friendly, fast turnaround, high quality short run color printing, economical in run length quantities as low as 250. Presstek DI bridges the strategic gap between conventional offset and digital toner based presses. According to InfoTrends research, the Presstek DI delivers a 50 percent cost savings on average per letter size page when compared to a high volume production color digital press and job profitability is 13% higher on a DI press when compared to a conventional offset press. The Presstek 52DI is a 52cm press with a maximum sheet size of 510 x 360 mm; and the Presstek 34DI is a 34cm press with a maximum sheet size of 340 x 460 mm.

QuadTech Announces Acquisition of Vigitek

InfoTrends 2008 — Thu, 01 May 2008 18:00:00 EDT

QuadTech, Inc. announced that it has purchased Vigitek, a designer and manufacturer of 100% print inspection technology. The acquisition strengthens print quality solutions for printers and converters in the packaging industry by bringing together QuadTech�s advanced register guidance system with Vigitek�s print defect detection technology. Vigitek will operate as a subsidiary of QuadTech.

QuadTech�s and Vigitek�s solutions are also suited for the decorative print industry, where precise color and register are essential to maintain pattern, repeat length, and color consistency.

Vigitek, based in Limerick, Ireland, pioneered the capability that inspects 100% of the web 100% of the time. Its systems are fully compatible with all types of printing (i.e., gravure, flexo, web offset, sheetfed, label, and corrugated) and in all types of configurations � roll to roll, roll to sheet, and sheet to sheet. Features of Vigitek�s solution include an innovative linescan system that uses 3CCD cameras with optical prism and custom built software that runs complex detection algorithms. Separate processors are dedicated to tasks such as image capture, image analysis, and data logging, giving the system reliable computing power.

QuadTech and Vigitek will be exhibiting at drupa 2008, held May 29 � June 11 at the Dusseldorf Fairgrounds in Dusseldorf, Germany.

MCS Announces Launch of Intelligent Card Attacher/Printer System

InfoTrends 2008 — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 18:00:00 EDT

MCS, Inc. announced its Intelligent Card Attacher/Printer System (ICAPS). Suited for plastic card applications such as gift card production and mailing, the ICAPS has the ability to personalize plastic cards with inkjet printing and encode magnetic stripe information on the fly at production speeds of up to 15,000 per hour.

The MCS ICAPS system is the result of a development effort from Pitney Bowes, 509 Technologies, and MCS. These companies have integrated a product that replaces slow production methods involving multi step processes and multiple vendors.

Incorporating the flexibility required for production mailing companies, the ICAPS allows a variety of applications in one standard product. These applications include:

Reading an optical code on a carrier piece and magnetically encoding and inkjet printing on a plastic card
Personalizing with inkjet printing a plastic card and its carrier. The personalization can be a name, dollar amount, offer code, etc.
Reading the magnetic information on a plastic card and printing personalized information on the card
The system offers production speed inkjet, camera technology, and mag stripe technology

Many retailers have already realized that gift cards are the promotional currency of the future. An increasing number, however, are pushing the promotional envelope and utilizing gift cards to replace coupons. This is a logical step because gift cards have a much higher redemption rate and a well established perceived value.

Progressive marketers are now starting to utilize the high perceived value of gift cards to use them as a promotional vehicle with direct mailings. The MCS ICAPS production system now allows mailers to drive down the production cost of these cards and increase speed.

Heidelberg to Showcase Linoprint Drop-On-Demand Technology at interpack

InfoTrends 2008 — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 18:00:00 EDT

According to WhatTheyThink.com, a new Drop on Demand technology for the individual decorating and marking of folding boxes, labels, and blister packs will be launched at interpack. Developed as part of an innovation project at Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG, the Linoprint system works in a resolution of up to 720 dpi. The major benefits of the digital printing system are its flexibility and ease of use. The modular Linoprint systems can be integrated just as easily into existing lines as into new lines. They are aimed initially at businesses in the pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and beverages industries as well as packaging firms and suppliers of packaging lines. Linoprint can be found at booth D21 in hall 12 at interpack 2008 (24 to 30 April) in D�sseldorf.

The Drop on Demand systems are aimed at a different market segment to the sheetfed offset printing solutions from Heidelberg. Because this segment demands a flexible focus on project and configuration business, Linoprint is being presented separately. Nevertheless, the technology is 100% sourced from Heidelberg. The Linoprint sales and services team will primarily address the requirements of those companies that use folding boxes, labels, or blisters to pack their products. This concept demands great flexibility and rapid reaction to customer requirements. Linoprint will enjoy the benefits of Heidelberg's worldwide logistical support network. Sales and Service will be done directly by Linoprint and its external distributors and partners.

Field tests are scheduled for the last quarter of 2008. Linoprint will be testing the market at interpack by revealing technology studies of its printing systems. Cooperation has already been agreed with one major packaging company, and Linoprint is in negotiation with others.

A team of printing experts and developers has been working on the technology for the new products for about three years. The digital systems were developed on the basis of the control technology that Heidelberg uses to build its computer to plate image setter. This has been developed into a modular, high performance Drop on Demand system that can be integrated into any standard packaging line. The Linoprint system processes variable data, enabling the print motifs to be modified without any interruption to the production process. Different language versions or production related data such as sell by dates, serial and batch numbers, barcodes, or data matrix codes can be imprinted in top quality, inline, and just in time.

Linoprint technology paves the way for printing of even small runs down to a batch size of 1. Thanks to specially optimized inks, the process can be applied on a wide range of substrates. Another feature is the scalability of the Linoprint systems�by activating multiple printing modules in sequence or in parallel, the printing width, speed, and even resolution can be adapted to meet a wide variety of requirements. Another special feature of Linoprint is that the printing system can be integrated anywhere in the production line, if desired even after the packaging has been filled.

Linoprint systems include two elements�the printing unit and the control software, which is adapted to meet individual requirements. The printing unit consists of the printhead, cleaning unit, and dryer. "Linospot," the version for single color printing, is nearing readiness for the blister film printing segment. It will soon be possible to imprint labels and folding boxes. Specially optimized screen technology allows any gray tone to be generated, while special colors are also feasible. The Linoprint developers are also already working on Linocolor, the 4 color printing unit.

Linoprint opens up whole new vistas of creative freedom in packaging design. Whereas esthetic considerations have traditionally had to give way to cost aspects or logistical feasibility, the Linoprint system combines high quality printing with the option to exchange the print motifs used in any desired print run length. This means that blister films providing precise information on production location and time are just as feasible as having the contents of cosmetics specified in various languages on the packaging or labels printed with the very latest news.

Eastman Kodak Company Announces Launch of ESP 5 All-In-One Printer

InfoTrends 2008 — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 18:00:00 EDT

Eastman Kodak Company has announced the launch of its ESP 5 All in One (AiO) Printer. The newest device in Kodak�s consumer inkjet printer portfolio leverages Kodak�s premium, low cost ink that enables consumers to print more photos and documents for their money.

The Kodak ESP 5 AiO Printer ($169.99 U.S. MSRP) features a small, sleek design with printing, scanning, and copying capabilities. It has a large 3" color LCD display along with memory card and USB slots to allow consumers to view, edit, and print with or without a computer. The ESP 5 uses Kodak�s high quality pigmented inks that come in a simple two cartridge setup � a full black cartridge ($9.99 U.S. MSRP) and a five ink color cartridge ($14.99 U.S. MSRP).

RISO Introduces CZ and EZ Series of Digital Duplicators

InfoTrends 2008 — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 18:00:00 EDT

RISO, Inc. announced the introduction of two new series of digital duplicators: the CZ and EZ series. The new EZ series, which includes the EZ220, EZ390 and EZ590 models, are designed to enhance productivity, print quality and offer a host of features not previously possible with traditional office printing equipment. The CZ180 is also being introduced as the first model in the new CZ series.

The duplicators reduces operating and capital costs, which have earned the entire product line the distinction of an ENERGY STAR rating for low energy use. The new CZ and EZ models are designed to meet the needs of organizations that require versatile spot color and monochrome printing while also being cost effective. Hundreds of thousands of customers currently use RISO digital duplicators as production printers in high volume environments.

The highlights of these new digital duplicators include:

CZ180 is designed as an entry level spot color digital duplicator for schools, this model offers 300 dpi imaging, legal sized imaging and printing, ADF scan top, and an LED keypad user panel in a compact, table top device. RISO�s CZ180 is a compact and easy to use digital duplicator for those requiring low cost, versatile, on demand duplicating.
EZ220 is intended for use by schools, churches and small associations that require spot color and monochrome printing solutions, the EZ220 digital duplicator offers 300 dpi imaging, legal sized imaging and printing, glass platen and an intuitive LED keypad user panel. Print quality is improved through new tone smoothing and enhancements made to numerous modes including books shadow, pencil, auto base and duo.
EZ390 is developed for mid size customers such as churches and schools that require ledger sized printing and scanning, this digital duplicator offers 600e dpi imaging, glass platen and an intuitive LCD touch panel interface.
EZ590 is designed for businesses and organizations such as schools, churches and in plants that require more sophisticated controls with easier access, this fully loaded ledger sized digital duplicator with built in GDI controller offers 600e dpi imaging, 11" x 17" printing and scanning, glass platen and an LCD touch panel interface. The model also features USB 2.0 PC interface, USB Flash Print and RISO USB Print Manager.

All these light production printers above are equipped with RISO�s i Quality System for optimum performance. The EZ line features integrated User Management, RISO Print Count Viewer, ID Counter Report and Meter Reports. In addition, both the CZ and EZ models are designed to be environmentally friendly. Like all RISO digital duplicators, these new models are ENERGY STAR compliant. With low power consumption, eco friendly soy ink, and natural fiber masters, RISO�s digital duplicators are a sound environmental choice.

HP Signs Marketing Agreement with Omnicom

InfoTrends 2008 — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 18:00:00 EDT

HP announced that it has formed a strategic relationship with Omnicom Group Inc. to drive forward the global communications strategy for the company�s Imaging and Printing Group and to develop a digital print supply chain that will streamline the creation, management and printing of marketing campaign materials.

HP also announced that Omnicom�s BBDO will join its sister agency, Goodby, Silverstein & Partners, in continuing to evolve the company�s "What do you have to say?" marketing campaign.

As part of its relationship with HP, Omnicom will use the company�s technology and services � provided through HP�s network of print service providers � to transform the way it currently implements marketing campaigns on behalf of its clients.

The companies envision a digital print supply chain that will both streamline workflows and offer on demand printing for direct mail pieces, packaging, marketing collateral, point of sale materials and traditional advertising � including print ads, billboards and building wraps.

This web based solution set will enable Omnicom and its clients to better manage documents, track individual projects, reduce printing duplication and waste, and gain visibility into marketing spends. Additionally, HP�s services and software will be used to provide variable data publishing capabilities for these new offerings. This will allow clients to more effectively reach customers with better personalized information that is targeted, timely, accurate and, as a result, more compelling and actionable.

Omnicom and HP will collaborate to pilot the digital print supply chain with several multi national brands in 2008. By taking advantage of this solution set, Omnicom�s agencies and their clients are expected to be able to reduce their printing costs while increasing the effectiveness of their marketing campaigns.

EFI to Showcase Its Latest Print Solutions at Drupa 2008

InfoTrends 2008 — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 18:00:00 EDT

EFI will be showcasing its range of productivity and revenue generating print solutions at Drupa 2008 (29th May to 11th June) in Dusseldorf, Germany. Visitors to EFI�s stand will experience Fiery, VUTEk, Jetrion, Print MIS, and Web to print solutions. Visitors will also be able to view EFI's products in operation on the stands of EFI partners, including Canon, Konica Minolta, Ricoh, and Xerox.

Visitors to the EFI stand will have the opportunity for hands on demonstrations and discussions with EFI professionals. EFI will its Fiery open platform, which readily integrates into any technology environment and delivers new revenue opportunities, such as high value variable data printing (VDP), with more options than any other digital print server in the industry. It also serves as a gateway to third party technologies and EFI products, such as Colorproof XF for proofing and Digital StoreFront for Web to print, as well as to EFI business management software and prepress solutions.

At drupa, EFI will feature first time demonstrations of the newest Fiery solution to maximize customer efficiency, including Fiery integration with the Adobe PDF Print Engine (APPE) and Microsoft XPS support newly developed by EFI. The Fiery's APPE integration augments existing Fiery PDF support, adding choices for customers to natively support PDF transparency across their workflows and to precisely print PDF files that match what they see on the screen during the content creation process. The technology EFI has developed in house to process Microsoft XPS ensures that Fiery users have the ability to print Microsoft Vista Office documents with improved transparency and colour rendering, as well as smaller file sizes that speed processing and minimize network congestion. EFI's color management system delivers consistent output across the APPE and Microsoft XPS environments.

EFI will also announce new Fiery advancements in make ready as well as enhancements to its user interface, and demonstrate new highly efficient, productive Fiery driven workflows that solve customers' most difficult print production challenges. This print production server will be demonstrated in combinations with Fiery Central (EFI's production workflow, management, and make ready solution), the Splash Mac OS X based workflow solution, the EFI Color Profiler Suite, and MicroPress (EFI's raster based color and black & white workflow solution). These workflows include:

Professional Color Workflow to optimize color from input to print. This demonstration features Fiery, Fiery Graphic Arts Package Premium Edition, and Color Profiler Suite.
Automated Make Ready & Production Color featuring EFI MicroPress, demonstrating the efficient production of complex jobs
Variable Data Solutions that unify variable data workflow, featuring Fiery and third party VDP software from DirectSmile and XMPie
Productive Document Workflows featuring Fiery's Impose and Compose options for efficient editing and assembly of static and variable documents prior to RIPing for final output without the need to modify native files, including adding or deleting pages, preflighting to check for errors, and late stage PDF editing
Mac Based Color Workflow featuring Splash, Fiery, and the Impose and Compose options for a Mac workflow from Creation to Production
Integrated Workflow Solution featuring Fiery Central, Digital StoreFront, PrintSmith, Colorproof XF, and JDF integration for efficient integration of job submission, management, and printing

EFI's VUTEk product line features a range of superwide format digital inkjet printers, all driven by Fiery XF RIP. These devices will be a central element of EFI's stand at Drupa 2008. For many Drupa visitors, this will mark the first opportunity to view the QS3200r, VUTEk's newest addition to the QS series of UV printers for performance and productivity in roll to roll printing.

Featured VUTEk solutions include:

The EFI VUTEk QS2000, EFI's 2 metre UV curing digital inkjet printer with a production output of up to 74 square metres per hour on flexible and rigid substrates at resolutions of up to 1,080 dpi. The QS2000 offers four and six color imaging and a special seventh white ink channel. This printer is an ease of entry option for sign printers and graphic display manufacturers who wish to add digital UV production to their product mix, or for commercial printers looking to add new revenue streams. This printer is also available in a 3.2 metre format in the QS3200.
The EFI VUTEk QS3200r is EFI's 3.2 metre roll to roll UV curing digital inkjet printer with a production output of up to 172 square metres per hour. It caters to sign shops, screen printers, and commercial printers looking to complement or replace existing solvent or UV output with the highest image quality and UV roll to roll capability.
The EFI VUTEk 3360, EFI's 3 metre roll to roll solvent printer, available with Fusion (an optional second ink delivery system), enables it to print solvent or dye sublimation output at the flip of a switch in 4 , 6 , or 8 color modes. Also available on the VUTEk 3360 are BioVu inks, EFI's VOC free, environmentally friendly, corn based solvent ink solution. The VUTEk 3360 is available with entry level configurations that are fully upgradeable, making it easier for print shops to step up to the print quality, performance, and reliability of a VUTEk digital inkjet printer.

EFI�s APPS (Advanced Professional Print Solutions) was created to equip print service providers with the tools they require to create high quality, color accurate print in an efficient and cost effective manner.

Visitors to the EFI stand will get a first look at EFI's new Proofing to Go RIP software, Colorproof eXpress, an entry level proofing product. Colorproof eXpress outputs accurate proofs, full color printouts, and photos with a single RIP/inkjet printer combination.

Targeted toward creative professionals, graphic designers, small agencies, prepress houses, and print buyers, Colorproof eXpress delivers high quality output with minimal set up time. Running on Mac OS X or Windows, Colorproof eXpress eliminates integration issues while delivering quality proofs from the users' platform of choice.

EFI will also be highlighting these additional Advanced Professional Print Solutions:

The latest version of Digital StoreFront (DSF), EFI's Web to print solution for print service providers. DSF combines an e commerce interface with back end automation. EFI gives customers a choice between hosting the application themselves and using EFI to host it for them, and DSF offers a choice of VDP technology providers. Digital StoreFront supports 14 languages.
PrintSmith and Hagen print management systems, which connect business and production processes, automating the workflow from estimating through to invoicing
The first time showing of an enhanced version of EFI Prograph, a comprehensive production planning solution for large web offset, sheetfed, and gravure commercial printing facilities that includes new JDF capabilities as well as contract administration and billing functions
The newest version of EFI PrintFlow, a dynamic scheduling tool that closes process gaps, relieves bottlenecks, automatically adjusts to rapidly changing conditions, and optimizes the entire business operation
Auto Count DMI, a shop floor data collection solution that integrates with EFI's higher end solutions and provides real time production intelligence. Auto Count eliminates overruns and underruns, giving the customer the opportunity to minimize waste, improve capacity, and increase profitability. Auto Count is also available in an entry level version, Auto Count Lite, with a clear upgrade path as business needs grow.
EFI Colorproof XF, the cross platform proofing and large format production solution that supports a variety of inkjet printers (up to 2.64m or 104") from various manufacturers and provides the highest level of color quality and control as well as consistent color across multiple applications and locations.
Fiery XF, which offers Clean Color and Full Gamut Technology. Fiery XF is a complete cross platform application for production and proofing purposes.

The Jetrion 4000 UV Inkjet System, which is now commercially available, is an industrial inkjet printer. It offers label converters an affordable, full color narrow web alternative to toner based digital printers for label runs of up to 50,000 labels.

With speeds of up to 30.5 metres/min at more than 1,000 dpi with greyscale technology, the Jetrion 4000 delivers full color label printing up to 13.9 cm (5.5") wide. The system also features Jetrion's 4 or 6 color UV ink sets, which, in combination with EFI's Fiery XF RIP, provide color reproduction across a wide range of substrates.

Corel Launches WordPerfect Office X4 PDF Suite

InfoTrends 2008 — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 18:00:00 EDT

Corel Corporation released Corel WordPerfect Office X4, the latest version of an alternative to Microsoft Office. In addition to its significant PDF enhancements, WordPerfect Office X4 now provides suite wide compatibility with Microsoft Office 2007 files and Open Document Format in WordPerfect X4. It enables users to collaborate and share files more broadly and more effectively than ever before.

WordPerfect Office X4 extends WordPerfect's legendary reputation for superior formatting power and control by introducing new Web collaboration and storage services, a new document redaction tool, a Web connected digital notebook and an innovative new business intelligence package.

WordPerfect Office X4 Standard Edition includes the familiar word processing, spreadsheet, slide show and email applications that have consistently distinguished Corel's office suite: WordPerfect, Quattro Pro, Presentations and WordPerfect MAIL. This release also features additions including Corel Connector online services, WordPerfect Lightning for digital note taking and Corel Visual Intelligence SE for data visualization and business intelligence.

WordPerfect Office X4 Standard Edition includes the following new features and capabilities:

Easily convert electronically generated or scanned image based PDF files to fully editable text, using OCR technology
Publish to PDF from within Corel WordPerfect Office X4 without the need for separate PDF creation programs
Add password protection to PDF files to easily control who can view, print, or edit PDF documents
Auto preview PDF documents Automatically view PDF files published within WordPerfect Office X4
PDF/A Support creates PDFs for archival using ISO standard PDF/A file format
Compatibility with Microsoft Office 2007 Easily open and view Microsoft Word 2007, Excel 2007 or PowerPoint 2007 files in WordPerfect X4, Quattro Pro X4, and Presentations X4
Open and view ODF in WordPerfect X4 Easily open and view ISO standard Open Document Format files in WordPerfect X4
Enhanced multi format compatibility with support for more than 60 file types, including Microsoft Word files back to version 1.0

Corel Visual Intelligence Starter Edition: Data Visualization and Business Intelligence

Quickly Add Visuals to Data Automatically convert live data from the Web or from Quattro Pro or Microsoft Excel into powerful visuals
Turn Data Into Insight Easily identify trends in data and intuitively tailor data analysis with a single click
What if analyses Perform "What If" analyses and share findings by quickly creating charts and slides
Upgrade to more advanced versions to obtain read/write support for larger spreadsheets and data sets, database connectivity and other features
Standard Edition is available starting today at an suggested retail price of $159.99 for the upgrade version and $299.99 for the full version.

The Professional Edition, designed for enterprise and government customers, includes many of the features in the Standard Edition along with the relational database Paradox, the WordPerfect Office Software Development Kit and other enterprise class tools. The Professional Edition is available for an SRP of $259.99 US for the upgrade or $399.99 US for the full version.

The Home and Student Edition, available starting May 5, 2008, includes WordPerfect X4, Quattro Pro X4, Presentations X4, WordPerfect Lightning and Corel Visual Intelligence SE. Priced at an SRP of $119.99 US, Home and Student Edition is licensed for non commercial and education use and may be installed on up to three PC's in the same household.

Corel Family Pack 2009, priced at an SRP of $89.00, is specifically designed to address the needs of the home PC user, combining the inviting word processing and spreadsheet experience of WordPerfect X4 and Quattro Pro X4 with the creative capabilities of Ulead VideoStudio 11 SE for video editing and Corel MediaOne for organizing and editing digital photos and videos.

Mitsubishi HiTec Paper to Display Carbonless Paper at Drupa 2008

InfoTrends 2008 — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 18:00:00 EDT

At Drupa 2008, Mitsubishi plans to launch its first carbonless paper, giroform DIGITAL, which can be printed on using digital printing systems. The paper is printable both sides and is characterized by fine running characteristics and toner adhesion. It is therefore designed for digital processing with high levels of forgery prevention. After printing, it is suitable for fanapart gluing to ensure further processing. giroform DIGITAL is currently the only carbonless paper released for the HP Indigo and Kodak Nexpress digital printing systems.

Printable Announces Integration of FusionPro with Kodak’s EMS Business Software

InfoTrends 2008 — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 18:00:00 EDT

Printable Technologies, Inc. announced the integration of its FusionPro Web product with Kodak�s EMS Business Software. Together, these products help customers navigate complex environments that include digital print workflows, fulfillment and mailing operations, and campaign tracking and reporting.

FusionPro Web, the Web to print system from Printable, delivers online ordering and e commerce support, mail list purchase and management, versioned and variable documents, and job submission and file transfer services. Leveraging a set of Web services and data feeds, Kodak EMS Software connects easily with FusionPro Web, allowing print service providers the flexibility to manage and deliver a wide variety of print on demand, collateral management, and marketing communications programs for their customers, with a high level of integration with their business management systems.

Developed by Kodak�s Graphic Communications Group, EMS Business Software combines an ERP solution with print focused capabilities. EMS Software serves as a catalyst for business optimization and growth, eliminating waste and implementing lean business practices that maximize the success of print service providers in a changing business environment. EMS Software offers real time access to business data, integrated customer and supplier relationship management, advanced estimating and production planning, shop floor data collection, integrated quality control, and much more.

Kodak�s EMS Software provides the highest degree of integration and performance with prepress workflows through JDF connectivity. This scalable system can drive production at a single site or be used to link hundreds of users across multiple facilities. The core solution enables users to manage continuous performance initiatives, real time connectivity between supply chain applications and partners, and greater business agility.

ViewSonic Announces Release of 10 Customizable Frames

InfoTrends 2008 — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 18:00:00 EDT

ViewSonic Corp. has introduced 10 customizable frames starting at $139. The 7 , 8 and 10 inch photo frames feature interchangeable bezels including wood, black and silver, or black and white.

All of the frames are easy to set up with a standard, easy to use menu system. Additionally, they come standard with 256MB of internal memory, which enables the rotation of nearly 4,000 photos and ensures that users do not have to leave any of their favorite photos in hiding. Photos can be uploaded to the frames through a USB cable, directly from a thumb drive, or with the camera's memory card. The 7 , 8 , and 10 inch models come equipped with a built in battery that provides freedom to display digital photos anywhere in the home or office without wire clutter.

ViewSonic's first 10 inch wide screen digital photo frame, the DPX1002, supports a variety of formats, including JPEG and BMP for photos; Motion JPEG, MPEG1, and MPEG4 for video; and MP3 for music. The DPX1002 features 1024x600 resolution, 400 cd/m2 adjustable brightness, and 400:1 contrast ratio (typ) to provide the highest image quality. The DPX1002 brings the added functionality of a calendar, alarm clock, multi language option, and remote control.

The 4:3 traditional 8 inch DPX802WD, DPX802WD BW, and DPX802BSL BW showcase photos with a high 800X600 resolution, 250 brightness, and 500:1 contrast ratio (typ). Slideshows are easily created and personalized with a built in speaker to play MP3 audio files, an easy to use on screen menu and numerous photo transition options.

The widescreen 7 inch DPX702BSL BW, DPX702WD BW, and DPX702WD bring photos to life with an 800x480 resolution, 220 cd/m2 adjustable brightness, and a 400:1 contrast ratio (typ). The digital photo frames can display JPEG or BMP files and offer multiple slideshow options including speed, effect, language, and rotation adjustments, allowing users to customize the look of the frame as well as their slideshow.

For those consumers who would like a more traditional digital photo frame, ViewSonic is also launching the 7 inch widescreen DPX704WH, 8 inch 4:3 DPX804WH, and 10 inch widescreen DPX1004WH. These photo frames include a sleek white finish; 128MB of internal memory; and compatibility with multiple video, audio, and photo formats. For additional functionality, the photo frames also include an alarm, clock, and calendar features.

The frames are currently available with estimated street prices of $139 for the 7 inch, $149 for the 8 inch, and the 10 inch models starting at $179. All are backed by a one year limited warranty and will be sold through authorized ViewSonic resellers, distributors, retailers, and e tailers.

Canon, Inc. Introduces imagePROGRAF iPF720 Large Format Printer to Japanese Market

InfoTrends 2008 — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 18:00:00 EDT

Canon, Inc. and Canon Marketing Japan, Inc. announced the expansion of the company�s large format inkjet printer lineup in Japan with the introduction of the Canon imagePROGRAF iPF720. Capable of producing A0+ (36 inch wide) printout, the model is designed to satisfy a wide range of printing demands, including CAD (Computer Aided Design) and GIS (Geographic Information Systems) applications, as well as poster production.

The new Canon imagePROGRAF iPF720 large format printer, which is positioned above the iPF710 model released in September 2007, delivers the same basic performance as the iPF710 while incorporating a large capacity 80GB hard disk drive. In addition to enabling the efficient handling of multiple print jobs, the new iPF720 achieves boosted productivity and reliability through the realization of improved total throughput when producing multi page printout, and the inclusion of security features.

The imagePROGRAF iPF720 employs a five color dye/pigment reactive ink system including four highly colorfast dye inks and a pigment based matte black ink for optimized print image quality on all types of print media. The model features Canon�s FINE (Full photolithography Inkjet Nozzle Engineering) high precision printhead technology and allots two rows of 1,200 dot per inch ink nozzle columns per color on the printhead. The combination of Canon�s high speed L COA image processor and microscopic ink droplets as small as four picoliters realizes high definition performance and high color density while enabling the creation of an A0 size print in approximately 55 seconds.

The Canon imagePROGRAF iPF720 will be available in Japan from late April 2008 priced at �798,000 (excl. tax). Canon has set initial production at 1,000 units per month.

KAMA to Debut ProFold 74 Finishing Folder/Gluer at drupa

InfoTrends 2008 — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 18:00:00 EDT

KAMA GmbH will introduce a newly developed offline solution for digital print processing and finishing at the drupa 2008 trade fair May 29 June 11 in D�sseldorf, Germany. The future oriented KAMA ProFold 74 finishing folder gluer will have its world premiere in Hall 3, Booth D 31.

Job printers, book binders, and trade binderies will appreciate how quickly and simply the KAMA ProFold 74 creates cross folders, ticket pockets, mailing envelopes, CD cases, and capacity folders. A tool mounting grid (patent pending) enables tools to be rapidly positioned in any desired order, ensuring short set up times and quick changeovers from one job to the next.

The company also will showcase the KAMA ProCut 74 automatic finishing die cutter, enhanced with new suction feed board and electronic cutting force adjustment. This "hybrid" die cutter is designed for high quality die cutting, creasing, kiss cutting, and cold embossing as well as for hot foil stamping, combined cold embossing and hot foil stamping, hologram stamping and hot cutting. With its short set up times, the multi tasking ProCut 74 can change from one function to another several times a day, making the processing and finishing of even small runs profitable. A new quick change system option ensures even faster job changes when carrying out hot foil stamping. The company will demonstrate a range of creative, high quality applications of the KAMA ProCut 74 during the show.

AT&T and Motorola Announce Launch of MOTO Z9 Slider Handset at CTIA Wireless 2008

InfoTrends 2008 — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 18:00:00 EDT

At CTIA Wireless 2008, AT&T, Inc. and Motorola, Inc. announced the release of the MOTO Z9 slider handset, which is exclusive to AT&T in the United States. MOTO Z9 will be the first phone to include AT&T Navigator, bringing the company's Global Positioning System (GPS) navigation service to an even greater number of AT&T customers.

Motorola's CrystalTalk technology also delivers voice quality to match MOTO Z9's design. The proprietary technology enables consumers to be heard even in noisy environments.

Available in more than 265 markets, 3G service from AT&T gives MOTO Z9 fast data speeds, enabling new services like Video Share, which allows users with compatible phones such as MOTO Z9 to send live one way video and audio from one user to another.

Consumers can use the device's intuitive music features to find their favorite tunes and playlists and can enjoy one touch access to a song they want to hear. AT&T Mobile Music provides access to downloadable music from eMusic and sideloading compatibility from Napster To Go and any unrestricted MP3 audio file. The device supports up to 8GB of memory, with an optional removable microSD card. Stereo Bluetooth wireless technology, an Opera 8 browser, and a 2.0 megapixel camera round out MOTO Z9's multimedia offerings.

The MOTO Z9 is currently available. It's exclusively sold at AT&T company owned stores, authorized dealers, and http://wireless.att.com/ for $249.99 after a two year service agreement.

Xerox Launches Sustainability Calculator for Offices

InfoTrends 2008 — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 18:00:00 EDT

Xerox Corporation unveiled the industry's first Sustainability Calculator designed to help customers pinpoint opportunities to reduce their environmental impact while reducing costs. The new proprietary software tool measures the overall impact a company's document technologies have on the environment.

The Sustainability Calculator is the newest assessment tool available through Xerox Office Services. It evaluates the current office environment of printers, copiers and multifunction devices and then measures environmental benefits that could be achieved in terms of energy and paper use, solid waste, water, air and greenhouse gas emissions. This tool provides customers the first fact based measurement of their environmental footprint.

The Sustainability Calculator not only tracks document technology from Xerox but also printers, copiers, and multifunction devices from other companies.

For offices that want a quick assessment of their environmental footprint, a scaled down version of the comprehensive calculator will launch on Xerox's Web site at www.xerox.com/thoughtleadership. Visitors get a sneak peek at how the calculator can effectively help their company, regardless of its size. The quick Web based assessment provides how to tips and advice on smart ways to make offices greener.

Xerox populated the calculator with metrics such as equipment specifications and usage patterns with the original number of devices. Following that, the calculator evaluated the new office configuration and was able to demonstrate areas where Northrop Grumman had achieved sustainability savings. Xerox will report metrics on Northrop Grumman's office equipment throughout the year as the company continues to simplify the office settings of six other sectors.

Motorola Commences Process to Create Two Independent, Publicly-Traded Companies

InfoTrends 2008 — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 18:00:00 EDT

Motorola, Inc. announced that its Board of Directors has commenced a process to create two independent, publicly traded companies. This decision follows the company's January 31, 2008 announced evaluation of the structural and strategic realignment of its businesses and represents affirmative steps to position its Mobile Devices and Broadband & Mobility Solutions businesses for success, while creating value for all Motorola shareholders.

Based on current plans, the creation of the two standalone businesses is expected to take the form of a tax free distribution to Motorola's shareholders, subject to further financial, tax, and legal analysis, resulting in shareholders holding shares of two independent and publicly traded companies:

The Mobile Devices business produces multi mode, multi band communications products and technologies. The business designs, manufactures, and sells mobile handsets and accessories globally with integrated software solutions that incorporate the latest personal communications technologies. It also licenses a portfolio of intellectual property.

The Broadband & Mobility Solutions business includes Motorola's Enterprise Mobility, Government and Public Safety, and Home and Networks businesses. These businesses manufacture, design, integrate, and service voice and data communication solutions and wireless broadband networks for enterprises and government and public safety customers worldwide. These businesses also provide end to end digital and Internet Protocol (IP) video solutions, cellular and high speed broadband network infrastructure, cable set top receivers, and associated customer premise equipment for residential and commercial wireless network system access.

The completion of any separation transaction would be subject to certain customary conditions, including implementation of inter company agreements, filing of required documents with the Securities and Exchange Commission, and receipt of an opinion of counsel or a ruling from the Internal Revenue Service as to the tax free nature of any transaction. The company expects that the separation of its businesses, if consummated, would take place in 2009. The company noted that there can be no assurance that any separation transaction will ultimately occur or, if one does occur, its terms or timing.

X-Rite and Pantone Announce Introduction of ColorMunki Solutions

InfoTrends 2008 — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 18:00:00 EDT

X Rite, Inc. and recently acquired Pantone, Inc. announced the introduction of ColorMunki solutions. ColorMunki solutions are easy to use, convergent technologies developed specifically to feed the artistic imagination of creative professionals at an affordable price. Designed to meet the requirements of creatives working in a digital environment across industries, the ColorMunki family (www.colormunki.com) ensures accurate color from inspiration to final output.

ColorMunki solutions provide photographers and designers new technological advances that address core issues of color creation, control, and communication in easy to use, integrated solutions. The ColorMunki portfolio includes ColorMunki Photo, ColorMunki Design, and ColorMunki Create, all supported by colormunki.com. The products are a combination of software and hardware that give creatives freedom and flexibility to create and produce with color confidence.

The ColorMunki Portfolio includes ColorMunki Photo, ColorMunki Design, and ColorMunki Create.

Designed for the digital workflow of social, wedding, and portrait photographers, ColorMunki Photo delivers a solution for matching colors from display to print. Developed with professional photographer input, ColorMunki Photo is a completely integrated, versatile solution that calibrates displays, projectors, and printers; measures ambient light; and captures spot colors. The new AppSet automatically sets the printer profile for the user. ColorMunki Photo also includes new color creation and communication tools such as automatically extracting colors from images and transporting images with DigitalPouch to ensure ViewSafe environments. ColorMunki Photo gives photographers ultimate color control for their images.

Developed for graphic professionals from freelancers to corporate in house designers, ColorMunki Design provides the freedom and simplicity to select, specify and store color palettes in a calibrated environment, ensuring precise color viewing and reproduction. Palettes can then be imported into popular design applications including Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, and QuarkXPress, as well as other industry standard applications. Colors can be selected from multiple sources including PANTONE Color Libraries, system level color pickers, inspirational images, color harmonies, and key word searches. ColorMunki Design allows users to quickly and accurately capture colors from any surface; easily calibrate monitors, projectors, and printers for accurate display to print matching; and verify spot colors for process safe reproduction in any medium.

ColorMunki Create is an affordable, simple starting point for designers whose primary requirement is color palette creation. ColorMunki Create offers spectral color selection from system level color pickers, inspirational images, color harmonies, and key word searches. It also offers the ability to snap to PANTONE Goe Colors for repurposing into usable palettes. In addition to software, ColorMunki Create offers a simplified approach to on screen color control to let designers realize their creative vision. ColorMunki Create easily upgrades to ColorMunki Design with the discount voucher included in the box.

All three solutions are supported by www.colormunki.com, an online portal where designers and photographers can experience key ColorMunki software capabilities such as create, share, and view color palettes with peers, search and select colors from images provided by the photoshelter.com community, and test their color viewing ability with an online test. Creatives will also be able to purchase any of the ColorMunki solutions directly through the Web site.

ColorMunki Photo and ColorMunki Design will become available in late March 2008, while ColorMunki Create will become available in June 2008. The ColorMunki family of products is compatible with Mac OS X 10.4 or higher and Windows XP and higher.

Fujitsu Announces Availability of ScanSnap S300M Mobile Scanning Solution for Mac Users

InfoTrends 2008 — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 18:00:00 EDT

Fujitsu Computer Products of America, Inc. has announced the availability of its ScanSnap S300M mobile scanning solution, a color duplex ADF (automatic document feeder) scanner for Mac users. Complementing the popularity of mobile productivity solutions among the Mac community, the ScanSnap S300M is a completely portable scanner, weighing less than 3.1 lbs with an ultra compact footprint measuring 11.2" x 3.7" x 3.0". Additionally, the ScanSnap S300M can operate from a USB connection, without the support of an AC power supply, enabling mobile users to scan paper documents, receipts, bills, invoices, and business cards anywhere they go. When not on the road, ScanSnap S300M users benefit from a compact desktop scanning solution for office or home use.

The ScanSnap S300M supports Mac OS X Leopard and offers "one touch" conversion of paper documents into PDF (portable document format) files. Users simply load a stack of up to 10 documents into the ADF and press the "SCAN" button to produce PDF files at speeds of up to 8 double sided pages per minute (ppm). The ScanSnap S300M also comes bundled with scanning software, including Cardiris for business card scanning, ScanSnap Manager for setting adjustments, and ScanSnap Quick Menu for control of all scanned documents.

Developed to maintain the advanced functionality of previous ScanSnap models, the ScanSnap S300M mobile scanning solution includes:

Fast Scanning Speeds: At 8 ppm (simplex) and 16 ipm (duplex), the ScanSnap S300M scanner provides fine color batch scanning performance. If AC power is unavailable, the ScanSnap S300M scanner can be powered by USB connectivity and provide color batch scanning speeds of up to 4 ppm (simplex) and 8 ipm (duplex).
Advanced QuickMenu: With QuickMenu, users have enhanced control over the destination of their content. Users can scan directly to e mail (Apple Email/Entourage), Mac preview, iPhoto, Folder, or scan directly to their .Mac account.
Business Card Scanning: Cardiris 3.6 for ScanSnap transforms business cards into editable information that can be exported to other contact managers such as Address Book, Apple Works, Entourage, and Now Contact.
Multi sheet Scanning: Holds up to 10 letter sized pages in its automatic document feeder (ADF).
Double Sided Color Scanning: Captures both sides of a document in a single pass.
Automatic Color Detection: Capability to sense whether a page has color content and automatically adjusts settings to optimize image clarity and file size.
Automatic Blank Page Detection and Deletion: Capability to detect if a page is blank and eliminates it from the scan if the user so desires.
Automatic Page Orientation: Allows the user to set the scanner to detect for automatic page orientation for proper viewing.
Automatic Image Deskew: Intelligently corrects skewed images when pages are misaligned.
Automatic Paper Size Detection: Identifies the document's page size and crops the edges accordingly. The ScanSnap S300M senses up to 9 different paper sizes from business cards to legal length.

Additional applications that users can take advantage of when using ScanSnap include:

ScanSnap and .Mac Folder: The ScanSnap S300M "one touch" concept can be further enhanced when combined with iDisk, the personal storage space located on Apple's Internet servers provided to .Mac members (sold separately). Using the ScanSnap "iMac Folder" functionality, users can log into their password protected .Mac account, browse for a destination folder on their personal iDisk, and save their digital documents all from within a single ScanSnap dialogue window. With just a few keystrokes, ScanSnap users have converted their paper documents into digital files and stored them off site, taking an important step forward in creating a disaster recovery plan for their critical documents. Furthermore, combining ScanSnap with a .Mac account provides users with an effective means to stay connected to their documents from just about anywhere. With an Internet connection, users can remotely manage documents, share them with others by attaching them to e mail, and even view them on an iPhone.
Scanning to E Mail: In today's fast paced world, communicating information quickly with others is essential, and the ScanSnap S300M delivers an effective way to instantly convert a stack of papers into a PDF e mail attachment at the push of a button. ScanSnap provides users with all the controls necessary to effectively manage the transaction from a single window, view the batch, change the attachment file name, and attach the file directly into Apple Mail or Entourage. When it comes to image quality and data security, e mailing color PDF files directly to the intended recipient is more secure and green than reproducing low quality bi tonal faxes beyond your reach.
Scanning Memories: ScanSnap provides a way to digitally preserve essential tax papers, mortgage documentation, and purchase receipts. In addition, ScanSnap can be used to capture messages within greeting cards, letters, report cards, tests, or crayon drawings.

The Fujitsu ScanSnap S300M scanner is currently available for a U.S. list price of $295 through the Fujitsu online store located at http://scansnap.fujitsu.com, via mail order catalogs, and via Fujitsu authorized resellers including, CDW ( http://www.cdw.com), Insight ( http://www.insight.com), MacConnection ( http://www.macconnection.com/), and MacMall ( http://www.macmall.com).

The Fujitsu ScanSnap S300M scanner comes standard with a 1 year depot limited warranty. Additionally, the Advance Exchange service offering, the Fujitsu overnight replacement program, provides the customer a replacement scanner prior to shipment of any malfunctioned scanner back to Fujitsu. The Advance Exchange offering is available as an upgrade to the standard limited warranty covering 12 months from the date of purchase.

Xaar plc Reports 2007 Financial Results

InfoTrends 2008 — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 18:00:00 EDT

Xaar plc announced its audited results for the year ended 31 December 2007. The results reflect continued growth from Xaar's printhead products. Turnover was up 13% to �47.9 million (2006: �42.2 million). Profits before tax increased 6% to �7.3 million (2006: �6.9 million) after providing for the early stage losses of the new Huntingdon manufacturing facility (2006: �nil). Underlying profit before tax (before net Huntingdon costs) increased 35% to �9.3 million (2006: �6.9 million). Earnings per share increased 9% to 8.6p (2006: 7.9p), and net cash at year end was �13.0 million (2006: �12.4 million). The company also announced a 25% increase in proposed annual dividend to 2.5p (2006: 2.0p).

For additional information on Xaar's financials, visit http://www.xaar.com/Info_page_two_pic_2_det.asp?sec_id=2630&art_id=5332.

XMPie Unveils New Look, Highlights Offerings at ON DEMAND

InfoTrends 2008 — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 18:00:00 EDT

XMPie, Inc. revealed its fresh, new look for the first time at the ON DEMAND Conference and Exposition in Boston. XMPie�s new appearance shines a spotlight on personalization and the connections made through one to one marketing, while demonstrating the energy driving XMPie forward.

The new look hits at the heart of what XMPie delivers � personal, one to one connections. The use of faces throughout XMPie�s visual pieces is a metaphor for personalization. This imagery conveys that XMPie�s solutions deliver one to one marketing communications that can be as unique as an individual recipient. Additionally, the dimensional "waves" that run throughout the company�s materials further signify connections � those that the company has with its users, those its users have with their customers, and those that XMPie�s solutions enable.

Beyond the new look, visitors to XMPie�s booth (#517) at ON DEMAND saw demonstrations focused on the three pillars of XMPie�s product line� (1) highly creative, variable print, (2) new cross media interactive communications including the integration of one to one publishing and one to one marketing into one highly efficient, effective marketing solution, and (3) personalized Web to print solutions enabling these capabilities to be displayed on self served, Web based marketing and e commerce portals.

Highlights of what ON DEMAND attendees experienced in XMPie�s booth included:

The XMPie Marketplace, an online resource designed to support users in the creation of personalized marketing materials. It features a uStore based e commerce Web site offering a library of creatively designed uImage templates available for purchase and download by uImage users.
uStore with its many enhancements and features, including user interface language customization.
An enhanced version of the innovative uProduce Marketing Console, designed to enable users to offer tracking and analysis of campaign results to their marketing customers in real time.
New groupings of the XMPie PersonalEffect server based line that are better tailored for small and medium sized businesses as well as large enterprises.

HP Announces Plans to Showcase Extensive Product Rollout at drupa 2008

InfoTrends 2008 — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 18:00:00 EDT

HP announced a landmark release of graphic arts technologies and products that improve the speed and reduce the cost of digital printing. The rollout � the company�s most extensive graphic arts push to date � supports HP�s Print 2.0 strategy to capture more digital pages from the analog print market and enable printing customers to take advantage of new market segments and business opportunities. Spanning high speed inkjet production, offset and photo quality liquid electrophotographic printing, as well as large format printing, the new offerings will be featured at drupa during May 29 June 11 in D�sseldorf, Germany.

New products and technologies are currently being previewed at a Tel Aviv event for customers, partners, press, and analysts. Highlights include:

A high speed 30 inch (762 mm) inkjet platform for high volume production of books, transactional/transpromotional mail, direct marketing materials, and newspapers
New HP Latex Printing Technologies that offer an environmentally responsible large format printing alternative for a wide variety of outdoor and indoor applications
An expanded portfolio of HP Indigo presses, including the new HP Indigo 7000 Digital Press designed for high volume print service providers and enhancements to the HP Indigo press 5500
The company�s first ever graphic arts workflow portfolio � the HP SmartStream Digital Workflow Portfolio � which offers customers greater flexibility with specific solutions to address a broad range of market segments and application needs

Positioned to build demand for digital applications, HP�s Graphic Arts portfolio offers a variety of alternatives to traditional printing technologies that will empower print service providers to achieve profitable growth. The company�s 50 plus graphic arts solutions can be used to print in virtually any format, from postage stamps to building wraps.

Several of the newly announced products incorporate HP�s Scalable Printing Technology, a proprietary inkjet technology that enables the creation of high performance color print devices capable of delivering reliability and low operating costs.

Leveraging its $1.4 billion investment in Scalable Printing Technology, HP introduced the Inkjet Web Press, a high speed color digital printing platform that increases productivity and lowers the cost of printing for the high volume commercial market.

The Web Press, which is expected to be commercially available in the second half of 2009, is designed to revitalize wasteful, low margin, analog driven printing processes by offering a combination of print width, color quality, productivity, and cost for graphic arts industry professionals in the direct mail, transactional, and transpromotional printing, book publishing, and newspaper industries.

Capable of printing in full color on rolls up to 30" wide at 400 feet per minute (122 m/min.), the HP Inkjet Web Press is compatible with a wide range of uncoated media to enable efficient printing of book signatures, full broadsheet newspapers, and other documents.

Designed with the environment in mind, HP Latex Printing Technologies offer print service providers a compelling alternative to traditional large format printing methods.

New water based HP Latex Inks produce odorless prints and offer consistent performance on a broad range of HP and non HP large format media. Coupled with HP Thermal Inkjet Technology, HP Latex Inks also provide durable output, sharp image quality, broad outdoor and indoor application versatility, high productivity, and a low total impact on the environment.

New HP Wide Scan Printing Technology has been designed together with HP Latex Inks to deliver high speed, quality printing. The first HP printers using HP Latex Printing Technologies will be announced at drupa in May.

HP unveiled a new generation of print engine that uses its liquid electrophotographic process, which produces the true offset and photo quality results of HP Indigo digital production presses. Three new HP Indigo models � the HP Indigo 7000, HP Indigo W7200 and HP Indigo WS6000 Digital Presses � all offer faster speeds and greater productivity than current models to deliver improvements in break even costs compared to analog print methods.

The first of these new presses available to the market will be the HP Indigo 7000 Digital Press in June, which cost effectively and efficiently produces large numbers of static jobs with run lengths ranging from one copy into the thousands. It also produces variable data work requiring the "every page is different" capabilities of digital. The press runs at speeds of 120 four color pages per minute for highly efficient throughput and quality in general commercial printing, photo merchandise production, and other high volume applications.

The HP Indigo WS6000 and W7200 models are highly productive, web fed digital presses designed for industrial and commercial applications, respectively. The WS6000 model, a label and packaging press expected to be available in early 2009, offers twice the productivity of the HP Indigo ws4500 press and is targeted toward labels and packaging converters with significant volumes of medium and short run jobs. Designed for high quality dedicated publishing, direct mail, and transactional/transpromotional offerings, the W7200 press is a high volume commercial press expected to be available in the second half of 2009.

In addition, HP�s Indigo press 5500 has been enhanced with options allowing greater productivity with an additional feeder, an in line connection to the HP Indigo UV Coater, and a kit for enabling printing on thicker media.

The HP Indigo press ws4500 is now offered with an EskoArtwork digital front end to enhance quality and productivity. In addition, the HP SmartStream Labels & Packaging Security Manager places identifying 2 D barcodes or color tiles on pharmaceutical labels to enable E pedigree and track and trace.

HP Indigo presses will be the first hardware devices to employ the HP SmartStream Digital Workflow Portfolio, an open environment designed to meet a range of market segments and application needs and provide workflow management from job creation to fulfillment.

Combining HP SmartStream and partner components results in greater flexibility, with specific solutions that are customizable and scalable to the business needs of print service providers operating in key market segments, such as general commercial printing, direct marketing, publications printing, photo merchandise, and labels and packaging.

The HP SmartStream Production Pro Print Server and HP SmartStream Production Plus Print Server Powered by Creo, for example, provide print service providers with capabilities to increase efficiency, adapt to emerging markets, and discover new growth opportunities.

Future additions to the HP SmartStream portfolio will offer workflow components for other HP Graphics Arts businesses, including HP Scitex, HP Inkjet High Speed Production Solutions, and HP Designjet.

Customers deploying next generation HP digital printing technology may take advantage of financing, leasing and asset management solutions from HP Financial Services, the leasing and financial services subsidiary of HP. HP Financial Services makes it easy for customers to intelligently and economically manage their graphic arts technology investment and also helps them manage to the lowest total cost of ownership, from planning and acquiring technology to replacing and retiring it. Additional information is available at www.hp.com/hpfinancialservices.

Working with its original equipment manufacturer partners, HP announced solutions that incorporate core HP Thermal Inkjet Technologies in outlicensed products for the mail printing, product identification printing, optical disk (CD/DVD) duplication, and retail transaction printing markets.

These new offerings include the HP Scanning Imager 1000, a platform based on HP Scalable Printing Technology and designed for direct to disk CD/DVD printing in high quality process color at speeds up to three disks per minute.

More information on HP�s announcements in the run up to drupa is available at www.hp.com/go/predrupa. Additional details on HP�s Graphic Arts portfolio and its upcoming exhibit at drupa 2008 is available through the HP Graphic Arts Portal at www.hp.com/go/graphicarts.

Canon U.S.A. Showcases New Media Products at AIIM/ON DEMAND

InfoTrends 2008 — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 18:00:00 EDT

Canon U.S.A., Inc. has added two new large format papers in two different weights for its line of imagePROGRAF large format printers Canon Premium Glossy Paper and Premium Satin Paper. These new substrates will be available in lightweight (200gsm) and heavyweight (280gsm) stocks. The lightweight stocks provide an economical option for Point of Purchase posters and proofing images, while the heavier stocks provide a higher grade option for fine art and photography prints. Canon will be debuted its new media at booth #1416 during the AIIM/ON DEMAND Expo in Boston.

Canon's new Premium Glossy and Premium Satin large format substrates are designed for photography, fine art, and high end graphics printing. Both new papers provide a high whiteness factor that is also less susceptible to light. A fluorescent whitening agent is often used to increase visual whiteness in media substrates, but fluorescent agents may react to ultraviolet rays, causing the print's white space to change under different lighting conditions. Canon's new Premium Glossy and Premium Satin papers do not use these fluorescent agents and achieve their high grade white appearance through the use of high white pulps. The new Canon substrates also incorporate Elemental Chlorine Free (ECF) pulps promoting environmental friendliness. ECF is a bleaching agent that eliminates persistent, bio accumulative toxic substances from paper mill waste water.

Canon's Premium Glossy paper incorporates a two layer surface structure. The top layer is a thicker resin coated, increasing the smoothness of media surface and reducing light reflection. The smooth top surface layer reduces light diffusion (i.e., fluorescent light) and enhances the natural gloss appearance of the paper. The second layer promotes ink absorption, allowing the top layer to remain glossy and helps prevent ink from bleeding.

The new heavyweight 280gsm Premium Glossy and Premium Satin papers are available in 17x22 inch cut sheet and rolls from 17 inches up to 60 inches wide. The new lightweight 200gsm Premium Glossy and Premium Satin papers are available in rolls from 17 inches up to 60 inches wide. All of these new Canon papers are expected to be available in early April through authorized Canon dealers.

For its specialty print media lineup, Canon also introduced its Postal Perfect Reply Cards, which enable customers to create customized mail pieces with pre populated reply cards. The new paper weight meets USPS standards so that the reply card can be dropped in any U.S. mailbox. The Canon Postal Perfect Reply Cards are approved to work on many Canon devices, including imagePRESS digital production presses and many imageRUNNER devices. The new cards are available in two weights, both of which are acceptable for the U.S. Postal Service. In accordance with U.S. Postal Service standards that require reply cards to be between 3.5x5 and 4.25x6 inches and at least 7pt., Canon offers the Postal Perfect Reply Cards in 7pt. and 9pt. to accommodate different sized reply cards. Once printed, this paper can be trimmed and scored.

Canon Postal Perfect Reply Cards are acid, chlorine, and lignin free. This promotes the archival quality of the media, increases the paper's strength, and allows it to remain whiter longer. These environmentally friendly papers contain 50% recycled fiber content with 30% post consumer fiber and are currently available through authorized Canon dealers.

HP Introduces New Line of Printing Solutions for Small Businesses

InfoTrends 2008 — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 18:00:00 EDT

HP announced new printing solutions that enable small businesses to affordably produce marketing collateral in house, increase productivity, and better manage their printing environments.

HP claims that its new Officejet business inkjet line delivers up to 50% lower cost per page than competitive laser printers. The expanded portfolio also includes new color HP LaserJet printers, supplies, and accessories as well as new monochrome HP LaserJet multifunctional printers.

HP�s new color printers and expanded line of specialty papers make it easy for small businesses to produce professional quality color documents quickly and affordably in their offices. Over the next year, HP plans to make color printing even more affordable with new color LaserJet printers that deliver monochrome printing for the same price as in class monochrome laser printers.

Additionally, HP has developed the Marketing Impressions Portal, an online destination designed as a one stop shop to help small businesses market and grow their business and interact with others through an online community with tools, guides, and templates.

New color printing solutions optimized for small business marketing include:

HP Officejet Pro L7590 All in One and HP 88 Officejet ink cartridges: Designed using HP�s Scalable Print Technology, this All in One prints laser quality documents and offers duplexing, convenient flatbed scanning, copying, faxing, and built in networking.
HP Color LaserJet CP1515n/CP1518ni Printer series and HP Color LaserJet CM1312 MFP series: Offered with newly formulated HP ColorSphere toner that provides a wider range of colors, higher gloss, and improved photo resolution. Printers also ship with marketing resources such as HP Print View software that allows customers to view elaborate print jobs in advance and estimate document costs to avoid the frustration of unanticipated costs and reprints.
HP Color LaserJet CP1215: Priced at $299, HP�s lowest priced desktop color laser printer also features new HP ColorSphere toner.
HP In house Marketing Starter Kit: Available with select HP printers, the kit includes a sampling of paper types commonly used for marketing collateral such as photo, glossy presentation, and matte brochure papers, as well as a Business Marketing Design CD containing templates, images, and coupons to provide a jumpstart in creating professional marketing collateral.
HP 88 Officejet Brochure Value Pack: Specially priced pack includes HP 88 Officejet Color Ink Cartridges, HP Glossy Brochure and Flyer Paper, and a Business Marketing Design CD containing everything needed to create professional quality marketing collateral in house, including free professional design templates, photo images, and exclusive offers from StockLayouts, iStockPhoto, and Logoworks.
HP Glossy Brochure and Flyer paper: Improved dry time is designed to work with HP inkjet printers and enables easy, timely, and inexpensive customization of marketing collateral.
HP Presentation Covers: Durable and professional finishing that binds proposals and other collateral without the expense of using additional equipment.

HP also unveiled a new branding strategy for its business ink portfolio. Now through fall 2008, packaging for all HP Officejet and Officejet Pro hardware and appropriate supplies will be identified with the "HP Officejet Printing System" name.

All hardware and supplies packaging for the HP Officejet Printing System will feature a dark green bar across the top of the box to signify that the entire system�from hardware to ink and media�is designed together.

New productivity enhancing HP business inkjet and monochrome LaserJet multifunctional printers include:

HP Officejet J6400 All in One: Feature rich printer/flatbed scanner/copier/fax with embedded wired and wireless networking and automatic two sided printing.
HP Officejet J4580 All in One: Delivers high quality color documents for less than laser printers when used with HP Officejet inks and offers convenient printing, copying, faxing, and flatbed scanning in one device.
HP Officejet J3600 All in One: Dependable printing, copying, scanning, and faxing.
HP LaserJet M1319f MFP: HP�s lowest priced monochrome laser MFP with printing, scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities.
HP LaserJet M1522 MFP series: Delivering higher end MFP features at a low price, this device includes a 50 sheet automatic document feeder, flatbed color scanning, and built in networking.

To help small businesses better manage their print environments, HP Easy Printer Care software 2.5i monitors between 2 and 20 HP printers, both laser and ink, with a single tool. Now supporting most HP business inkjet devices, the software makes it easier to maintain and quickly view the status of multiple devices, set up printer and supply alerts, generate basic usage reports, and reorder supplies with the click of a button.

HP is currently offering a variety of special rebates for its top selling printers. Rebates and promotional dates will vary by printer model.

Additionally, Staples retail stores across the United States are making it easy for customers to recycle their old printers and purchase a new HP printer. Through the program, which runs from March 16 May 3, 2008, customers can bring their old printer (regardless of brand, model, or condition) to their local Staples store. Staples will recycle the printer for free and provide customers with a $50 discount toward the purchase of a new HP printer priced at $159 or above.

EFI Extends Support for Digital StoreFront at ON DEMAND

InfoTrends 2008 — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 18:00:00 EDT

EFI extended support for its Digital StoreFront (DSF) Web to print solution to include native integration with its PrintSmith Print MIS system. The PrintSmith system is in use by more than 8,000 print shops worldwide. Already in use at more than 2,500 locations worldwide, Digital StoreFront lets print service providers create an intuitive e commerce shopping interface for their customers, and delivers back end automation to improve profitability. Digital StoreFront 3.3 will be available at the end of March.

Digital StoreFront will be featured at the ON DEMAND Conference & Exposition in a variety of EFI's partners' booths, including Canon USA, Inc. (Booth #1416), FujiFilm Graphic Systems USA, Inc. (Booths #952 and #1048), Konica Minolta (Booths # 913, #916, and #M.57) and Ricoh Americas Corporation (Booth #631).

The new integration joins a suite of workflow and Web tools available from EFI. PrintSmith Site, the venerable Web to print option, is still available as an add on for PrintSmith. With the addition of support for PrintSmith, Version 3.3 of Digital StoreFront features out of the box integration with EFI's Print MIS solutions, direct connectivity to Fiery color digital print servers, MicroPress, EFI's raster based production workflow solution, and EFI's VUTEk superwide printing systems via JDF.

Canon U.S.A. Announces Expansion of imageCLASS MF6500 Series

InfoTrends 2008 — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 18:00:00 EDT

Canon U.S.A., Inc. expanded its imageCLASS MF6500 Series, introducing four new black & white multifunctional laser copiers. Helping replace the cost and complexities of managing multiple office devices, the new imageCLASS MF6540, MF6590, MF6595, and MF6595cx devices allow smaller offices to have true copying, printing, faxing, and scanning functionality and flexibility all in one machine.

Canon�s new imageCLASS models expand the company�s extensive laser multifunctional portfolio and provide small and home offices with a range of options to choose the right solution for their business. Moving from multiple single function devices to a single streamlined multifunctional laser platform device is inherently more beneficial in limited office space environments. The new imageCLASS models allow for a better use of space while also accommodating all the tasks previously performed by four or more machines.

The expanded imageCLASS MF6500 Series product offerings perform black & white laser printing at speeds of up to 24 pages per minute (ppm) and copying output at 24 copies per minute (cpm). Crisp text and images can be produced at an enhanced print resolution of up to 1200 x 600 dpi. Customers can also complete a variety of scanning tasks at speeds up to 24 ppm monochrome for letter sized output. Scans can also be achieved in color from either the platen glass or the automatic document feeder (ADF) with an interpolated resolution of up to 9,600 dpi. The included OCR (optical character recognition) software and file managing software provides even more productivity. For the added benefit of fax capability, the imageCLASS MF6590, MF6595 and MF6595cx incorporate a 33.6 Kbps Super G3 fax. A list of fax features (including 23 one touch speed dial numbers, 100 coded speed dial numbers, and a 1,000 page memory capacity for the MF6590, MF6595, and MF6595cx models; PC Faxing; sequential broadcasting; and activity reports) make the new imageCLASS products suitable for customers requiring comprehensive faxing applications in a compact desktop product.

Paper handling is achieved with each model incorporating a duplex ADF that can handle up to 50 page originals to allow two sided copying, printing, scanning, and faxing (on the fax models). Each model is also equipped with a 500 sheet front loading paper cassette that has been folded into the sleek design of the unit, plus a 100 sheet multipurpose tray that accepts a variety of media. The MF6595cx includes an additional 500 sheet cassette. Each device can copy up to 8.5 inches x 14 inches (legal) from both the ADF and platen glass.

For added flexibility and user convenience, the imageCLASS MF6540, MF6590, MF6595 and MF6595cx all incorporate a built in network interface. For optimal speed when printing and scanning, all three products provide a USB 2.0 Hi Speed interface.

The imageCLASS MF6500 series also incorporates the Canon Single Cartridge System, which combines the toner and drum in one easy to replace unit, resulting in image quality retention and eliminating the complication and warehousing of separate toner and drum consumables.

The Color imageCLASS MF6540, imageCLASS MF6590 and imageCLASS MF6595/6595cx meet the ENERGY STAR guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Department of Energy (DOE).

The suggested retail price of the imageCLASS MF6540 is $599, the imageCLASS MF6590 is $699, the MF6595 is priced at $999, and the MF6595cx with an additional 500 sheet cassette is $1,145. All of these devices will begin shipping to retailers in April 2008. Each comes with a three year warranty.

Objectif Lune and Xpertdoc Announce Technological Agreement for Objectif Lune’s PlanetPress Suite and Xpertdoc’s Studio

InfoTrends 2008 — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 18:00:00 EDT

Objectif Lune and Xpertdoc announced a technological agreement with the upcoming launch of a co branded solution integrating both companies� technology, Objectif Lune�s PlanetPress Suite and Xpertdoc�s Studio.

Xpertdoc Studio is a software solution used to generate statements, invoices, professional reports, and business correspondence created with Microsoft Word, generating searchable and compressed documents, preserving system resources, and maximizing the return on the enterprise document assets. Xpertdoc Studio also supports conditional sections, numbered paragraphs, tables, footnotes, embedded graphics, and more.

PlanetPress Suite is Objectif Lune�s software solution for transactional and transpromotional document production using variable data and offering advanced capabilities for workflow automation and e mail and fax output. Commercialized worldwide by printer manufacturers and distributors, PlanetPress Suite is the solution of choice for producing and managing the production of personalized business correspondence with a strong presence in the transactional and transpromotional niche.

This collaborative product will combine PlanetPress Suite�s strengths for business workflow automation, job handling, and management with Xpertdoc Studio�s features for easy design and Microsoft Word templates adjustment with variable data integration capabilities. To be commercialized worldwide by Objectif Lune, this new product brings Microsoft Word and Xpertdoc users a wealth of automation features for low to mid volume personalized print.

Objectif Lune and Xpertdoc are in the final stages of development and a beta version of this new product is expected in early summer of 2008.

RSA to Unveil QDirect 3.5 at ON DEMAND

InfoTrends 2008 — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 18:00:00 EDT

QDirect, RSA's Enterprise Output Manager, has been enhanced for even greater usability and is available with more attractive pricing. QDirect is a customizable tool for manipulating, routing, releasing, and accounting for all print jobs in an enterprise.

With QDirect 3.5, users can quickly preview jobs and ticketing information, directly from QDirect. This allows operators to quickly view documents and route them appropriately without leaving the QDirect interface. This time saving feature is a direct response to real world customer use by some of the most demanding enterprises. ON DEMAND 2008 will mark the official debut of QDirect 3.5.

QDirect supports a job due date and further integration with WebCRD and QDirect.SCAN. All times and dates are stored in Universal Coordinated Time and are displayed in the end user's local time. This enables accurate enterprise wide accounting, a significant concern for RSA's customers with operations in multiple time zones.

Additional fields tracked by QDirect include File Size and Impressions, useful for job planning, analysis, and chargeback. For example, an operator can sort jobs by File Size and release large jobs as desired.

QDirect is also more affordable than ever. Instead of charging for each individual printer that QDirect sends jobs to, QDirect now allows an unlimited number of printers for network printing, with just a charge per printer type. RSA's partners and enterprise customers will find this attractive as they are encouraged to add as many printers as required, without additional cost.

The recently introduced WebCRD Enterprise System now includes QDirect, making it easier to afford RSA's Web to Print solution and RSA's Enterprise Output Manager. By combining WebCRD and QDirect, Web based jobs can automatically flow into QDirect. Hardcopy jobs can be accommodated as well, by enabling QDirect.SCAN, RSA's Scan to Print Center solution on supported Multi Function Printers.

QDirect is naturally integrated with RSA's set of workflow software offerings, including Transform solutions (M.I.S. Print, IPDSPrint, and Make Ready Integration). This enables centralized accounting and control of all jobs throughout an enterprise, whether they are Web based, hardcopy, network, or datacenter jobs.

PrintSoft to Feature New Version of WebDirect Correspondence Solution Suite at ON DEMAND

InfoTrends 2008 — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 18:00:00 EDT

PrintSoft will feature the latest version of its WebDirect correspondence solution suite at the ON DEMAND Conference and Exposition in Boston. At booth #1467, attendees will learn about WebDirect solutions that give command and control to business users for variable message management while also streamlining document automation workflows and enhancing brand and compliance control for business critical personalized correspondence.

Demonstrations at the PrintSoft booth will showcase the latest version of WebDirect with industry vertical applications including financial services marketing letters, insurance benefit authorization letters, and transpromo loyalty marketing statements.

Printers and service bureaus that provide business process outsourcing and mailing services will learn how they can capture additional business with WebDirect and provide sought after Web based self service capabilities to business users at client companies.

Enterprise organizations will learn how they can gain visibility and control over enterprise wide business correspondence with WebDirect and ensure that customer communications are as targeted, relevant, and timely as they can be.

PrintSoft WebDirect automates the document production process with easy to deploy and easy to use modules that provide Web enabled automated management of corporate correspondence from the desktop to the mailstream. It has proven its value with leading customers, including business process outsourcers, print service providers, and corporations. These customers are shifting the maintenance burden away from IT and addressing the needs of communication intensive corporate business units to provide compliant, relevant, and timely messages in event driven correspondence and planned high volume communications.

Speaking in the XPLOR Document University program co located with ON DEMAND, PrintSoft Director of Business Development Avi Greenfield will be providing conference attendees with insight into the tools and techniques for most effectively utilizing customer information in personalized communications. The session, "Building a Bridge: Linking Customer Information and Personalized Mail," is part of Wednesday�s "Mail in the Middle" conference track.