Actual News about Large Format Printing
A free of charge information service
Publishing
Company: CREACT, Spain; editor in chief: Susanne Aschoff
Thursday, 23. Oktober 2003
here you
will find something about interesting innovations and news about Large Format
Printing.
Enjoy
while reading.
Sincerely
Yours
Susanne
Aschoff
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1) Visual Communication Italy
Leading suppliers from the signs and
sign making, digital printing and
imaging, screen printing and POP/POS will exhibit at Visual Communication
Italy. It will be held in Milan on 14th to 16th November.
14,000 and more visitors will be meeting more than 280 suppliers who will be
exhibiting in hall 1, 2, 3 and 4 of the Milan Fairground the recent not only on
machinery, material and media, but also services and marketing tools and brand
forming applications. Here some highlights during the three fair days.
ACNielsen will presenting the results of the 1st Italian research on
LFDP during the seminar “Stampa Digitale Grande Formato 2003”. The POP/POS
industry has shown over the last 2 years the fastest growth rate among the
traditional communication media. The professionals of the industry will meet
marketing managers and brand creators of major companies. Visual Communication
will be the perfect setting for this major event where creativity meets new
technology. And you will see flat-beds! Yesterday the new kid in town, today a
mature technology. Reed Visual Italia as the organizer is very proud to
announce that the leading suppliers of this technology have chosen Visual
Communication Italy to present their latest solutions to the market during this
international trade fair with the most complete panorama on flat-beds of any
kind, printing with solvent, UV cured or water based inks. The education
program, the leading forum for information exchange between producers and
suppliers, can be seen on the website.
More
information: www.visualcommunication.it
2) ENCAD at VisCom Italia
The recently launched
direct-to-vinyl printer, ENCAD’s VinylJet 36, will be exhibited in Italy at the
forthcoming Visual Communication Italia Exhibition, to be held at the Fiera
Milano, from November 14th to 16th. The three-day show
will provide the platform to demonstrate the capabilities of the 36”, 600 dpi
printer that was introduced to offer users a solvent-free alternative for
producing wide-format, direct-to-vinyl signs. ENCAD will exhibit at VisCom Italia in support of its Italian distributor, Neograph (hall 3, booth E 06). Neograph will offer a full
working demonstration of the new, user-friendly VinylJet 36 that sets a whole
new standard for affordable, outdoor and wide-format sign production, says
ENCAD. The VinylJet 36 is an only direct-to-vinyl printer that uses
environmentally safe, water-based inks. It enables aqueous printing on
uncoated/untreated vinyl media via proprietary new ENCAD technology and DuPont
ink technology. This AquaVinyl Technology works by using an internal heater
that pre-heats the vinyl as it moves across the platen for optimal ink
reception. Immediately after the ink is printed onto the vinyl, an infrared
lamp cures it, creating an impermeable bond for long-lasting, colorful text and
graphics.
More
information: www.encad.com
3) TeckJet – a new printer line
Matan
Digital Printers Ltd. offers the TeckJet line of wide format digital inkjet
printers. They are the only printers in their price range suitable for all
large format printing applications – including outdoor, fleet and indoor media.
These affordable and robust grand format high performance printers offer
excellent printing width capabilities and low maintenance requirements,
allowing for especially rapid return on investment. Based on piezo
drop-on-demand printing technology, the TeckJet inkjets can utilize
solvent-based inks and support either four or six colors for better rendering
and color gamut. This allows for exceptional outdoor durability, and eliminates
the need for expensive pre-treated media. Available in 1.8 or 2.5 meters (70.8
or 98.4 inch) format, the TeckJet printers are produced by the Shanghai Teckwin
Development Company. TeckJet printers conform with all international standards
of quality, including ISO9001/2000 and CE IEC/EN60204. Matan was awarded the
Master Distributorship of this product line by Teckwin, with exclusive
territorial rights in Europe and North America.
More
information: www.matan.co.il
4) Océ launched Arizona 600
It was a
highlight at the SGIA and DPI annual exposition in October in Atlanta/GA: Océ
has debuted its new printer Arizona 600. It is a mid-sized, industrial-grade,
high volume production inkjet printer, designed to produce Scotchprint Graphics
that are backed by the 3M MCS Warranty. Beside this, the Océ Arizona 600 is a
solvent-based, 75-inch wide production-grade inkjet printer that uses 3M Piezo
InkJet ink series 5500. When used with selected 3M media, the Océ Arizona 600
delivers outdoor-durable graphics backed by a 3M MCS Warranty of up to three
years outdoor without lamination, or five years outdoor with lamination. Arizona
600 prints resolutions of 1,200 (618 x 618) and 600 (309 x 309) dpi using Océ
ColorBlend six-color printing technology. Print speeds are up to 450 ft2 per hour in 2-pass mode, 250 ft2
per hour in 4-pass mode, and up to 200 ft2 per hour in 8-pass mode. The
Arizona 600 is ideal for both outdoor and indoor applications where image
quality with outstanding highlights and production speeds and volumes are
required. Its 75-inch wide format lends itself to a number of applications
including 6-foot wide graphics with full bleeds or running two 36-inch wide
prints side-by-side, which greatly reduces media waste. Arizona 600 includes a
number of technology features and automated systems that increase productivity
and make it easier for operators of varying skill levels to produce outstanding
prints.
More
information: www.oce.com
5) Develop-codename “Gator”
MacDermid
ColorSpan debuted a 72-inch wide (1.83 m), piezo-electric solvent inkjet
printer – the DisplayMaker 72s. Developed under the codename “Gator”, the
printer is designed around sixteen 600-dpi Micro-Quad piezo-electric
printheads, that delivers true 600 x 600 dpi quality at print speeds up to 37
sqm/h. It uses ColorSpan’s SolaChrome-HR solvent-pigmented inks to produce high
quality outdoor-durable banners, signs, vehicle graphics and more on
inexpensive uncoated vinyl and other substrates. The DisplayMaker 72s offers
high quality, speed and automation features. The self-cleaning printhead service
station uses an on-board solvent cleaning solution to ensure the printer is
available to print on demand. ColorSpan’s Automation Eye technology uses an
on-board image sensor and photodiode to automate the setup and calibration
steps critical for achieving and maintaining print quality, while extending the
useful life of the printheads. DisplayMaker 72s will be available from
ColorSpan’s worldwide network of value-added distributors and resellers in this
last quarter of 2003.
More
information: www.colorspan.com
6)The new PhotoPRINT 4 Family
Scanvec Amiable Europe is presenting
its new PhotoPRINT 4 Family professional RIP solutions on the market. This new
development has been vastly improved and offers highly productive, revenue
increasing features and functions that will bring new fields of opportunities.
With this efficient and easy to use applications, Scanvec Amiable will
consolidate its reputation as one of the leading provider of complete professional
software solutions for the graphics industry. Increased productivity, easy-of
use and the recent technology are the common elements that indicate all
features and functions you will find in the new PhotoPRINT 4 Family. Offering
solutions from entry level RIP&PRINT to advanced network printing, all
PhotoPRINT 4 variants include a certified Adobe PostScript Level 3 interpreter,
ensuring highest compatibility with all popular file-formats. PhotoPRINT 4
Family includes ICC output profiles for all major media and inks. An all-new
ColorProfiler, changeable CMS, new specific rendering intents for Text and
gradients and pure hue preservation will help to reproduce colors precisely,
with smoother color transitions and enhanced details. Engineered with cooperation
from major equipment manufacturers, PhotoPRINT 4 Family comes standard with
extensive driver support for all popular large/wide format printers. The new
Family also sets a new standard in the “contour cutting” arena: use any
combination of printer and vinyl cutter, to create your own Virtual Hybrid
Device.
More
information: info@scanvecamiable.be
7) Wasatch with SoftRIP Version 5.0
Wasatch
Computer Technology has announced the beta release of its SoftRIP Version 5.0.
This version transforms color and presents users with major architectural
improvements creating a series of new color and workflow master screens. A
flatter interface with several innovative new features will greatly benefit
both existing and new users. This release enhances usability and function in
many key areas. A simple “Imaging Configuration” screen is now the centerpiece
of the Wasatch workflow. It combines all color-related printer and profile
controls in one location, increasing ease of use and greatly reducing setup
time. This is a real benefit for beginner users who now can get great “out of
the box” color with one “plug-and-play” selection. Advances users and those
creating their own ICC profiles will appreciate the powerful tools easily
accessed from the Color Transform screen. This master color flow chart
straightens out the maze of profiles, rendering intents, halftone properties, printer
calibrations and ink limiting manipulations, showing users exactly how color
flows from file to printed page. In addition to the new architecture, users
will find several features to improve their workflow and color. An archiving
feature has been created giving users the flexibility to backup RIP’d files
from their print queue with drag and drop ease. The production release is
scheduled for early November 2003.
More
information: www.wasatchinc.com
8) Successful PROOFGATE
The
Federal Association of Print and Media (BVDM) has organized the 3rd Digitalproof-Forum in Wuppertal /GE in
September. The main focus of this event was the “Creation of Digital Proofs”
challenge in which 26 different proof system suppliers competed. The ColorGATE
GmbH has taken this quality-orientated event as a chance to present PROOFGATE
to the customers for the first time and to place itself in the competition. The
PROOFGATE software participated successfully in the Digitalproof-Forum and has
achieved a first-class position. PROOFGATE is ColorGATE’s recent software
solution for the production of halftone proofs and suitable for standard inkjet printers. The best result of all competitors,
PROOFGATE obtained with the reproduction of CMYK full tones (primary colors),
followed by Creo Prinergy and GMG ColorProof. The software will be available by
the worldwide distribution partners of ColorGATE Digital Output Solutions GmbH.
More
information: www.colorgate.com
9) 3603 PRISMA – for demanding applications
The 3603 PRISMA Backlit Front Print
WF 170 matt is a single-side coated, transparent polypropylene film with a
matte coating. It is designed for demanding high quality graphic arts
applications on inkjet plotters and printers. The backlit film is especially
suitable for picture presentations in light boxes. This product is also
suitable for areas with high humidity and condensation when pigmented ink is
used. Water-resistant prints can be achieved with pigmented inks. 3603 PRISMA
allows to use high ink-coverage without bleeding, but the drying time is
increased when high ink-coverage is used. To reduce it (for example, when a
take-up roller is in action) lower ink-settings have to be used. The product
has an increased opacity to allow good contrast also with front-light or bright
backlit sources. The product suits best
for applications with low temperatures as the film may slightly change
dimensions in high temperatures. More than 40° C may cause warps.
More
information: www.sihl.ch
10) Enhanced Magic PRINTLAM2
InteliCoat
Technolgies has enhanced its Magic PRINTLAM2. This product is a printable
polyester laminate with a dual-purpose adhesive/image-receptive coating.
PRINTLAM offers a single-step finishing solution for indoor/outdoor promotional
and display graphics. The enhancements include the ability to adhere to common
mounting substrates such as Fome-Cor and Sintra, and an improved image quality
performance. Magic PRINTLAM2 is a 4-mil thermal-activated polyester laminate
with both adhesive and image-receptive properties. It is designed for
applications such as point-of-purchase posters and signs, promotional displays
and trade shows. PRINTLAM’s distinct advantage is that it requires only a
single mounting-finishing step – simply print on the image-receptive side and
then mount on a rigid substrate. There is no need for the additional steps of
applying adhesives and laminating – it delivers all the image quality and
durability of laminated photo-base with half the materials and production time.
PRINTLAM allows to enhance profits and productivity by simplifying the process
to only one step.
More
information: www.magicinkjet.com
11) 3P EXPRESS Banner
3P InkJet
Textiles Corp. has introduced two brand-new polyester fabrics at SGIA in
Atlanta/GA/USA: the new EXPRESS banner line. At this annual exposition users
could have assured themselves of the high quality. Two alternatives will be
offered, the EXPRESS light banner (140g/sqm), and EXPRESS heavy banner (200
g/sqm). You can print these fabrics with every large format printer in every
width up to 72”. Use standard dye-based inks for a great variety of
applications like indoor soft signage or home textiles. Vivid colors and
excellent photo reproduction are convincing. The EXPRESS banners allow outdoor
applications as well. By using pigment inks, the banners are prepared for
outdoor applications.
More
information: www.3P-Inktextiles.com
12) EFI – license partner of Pantone
Electronics
For Imaging (EFI) has been awarded Pantone approval to integrate PANTONE solid
to process definitions for CMYK reproduction into the latest versions of its
Best proofing software. This offers users a fully automated PANTONE Color function. By incorporating the
PANTONE Color definitions into the Best
proofing software, operators can simply process print jobs containing PANTONE
Color separations and the software will automatically produce a color-accurate
output of the complete print job. Pantone, Inc., now works with EFI’s Best
division as a licensed technology partner. EFI
now is offering its customers a proofing solution that will ensure
reliable and consistently high quality output and add to the overall efficiency
of their prepress workflow. The company, a world leader in imaging solutions
for network printing, has integrated PANTONE Color definitions into version 5.0
of its Best Colorproof, Best Screenproof and Best PhotoXposure software, as
well as version 3.0 of Best Designer Edition and Best Photo Edition.
More
information: www.Efi.com and www.pantone.com
13) IMI’s Conference 2004 in Arizona
Do you
develop inkjet products or processes using inkjet or want to hear the latest
developments from the key suppliers of printheads, inks, specialty chemicals,
curing systems instrumentation an system integrators? Then be sure to make
plans to attend IMI’s “Inkjet printing
Developers Conference 2004”. It will be held on February 4th to 6th
at the Chaparral Suites Hotel, Scottsdale, Arizona. There you will see, hear
and meet with major suppliers to the inkjet industry under one roof. Inclusive
with the conference program are many breaks, lunches and receptions, giving all
registrants ample time to meet with the key suppliers to this thriving
industry. Unlike regular IMI conferences and courses, the Inkjet Printing
Developers Conference 2004 is a commercial event where new and existing users
can obtain information and contacts for the latest products available to the
rapidly expanding inkjet industry.
More
information: www.imiconf.com
14) Treck·Hall Acquires Signware
One of
Canada’s major imaging solutions companies, Treck·Hall Limited, strengthened
its presence in the wide format printing market with the acquisition of
Vancouver-based Signware Inc. It represents the first major expansion into the
outdoor sign printing market, which is projected to experience significant
growth of up to 35 % in the next five years. Treck·Hall Limited is one of
Canada’s leading distributors of conventional photographic and digital imaging
supplies and equipment serving the photographic, photo-finishing, graphic
digital imaging, government, medical and educational industries. The company
will employ more than 60 people with a presence in four major city centers:
Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto and Montreal. “We’re now better positioned to
capitalize on the rapid growth of the outdoor sign printing market,” said Mr.
Hall, whose firm’s roots date back to 1904 as a distributor of photographic
supplies and equipment.
More
information: www.treckhall.com
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