Andrew Hand

Today, Onyx Graphics, Inc., announced global availability of ONYX 19, the newest version release of the company’s industry-leading wide-format RIP and print workflow software. Introducing the Spark Engine and DeviceLink+, ONYX 19 brings new cutting-edge technologies so print service providers can go bigger, bolder and beyond the limitations of wide-format print for all print applications including soft signage and textile. The Spark Engine is a new performance platform bringing RIP speed increases up to 400 percent and printer performance increases up to 200 percent. DeviceLink+ is an all-new system of easy-to-use colour management controls to achieve consistent colour across an entire site without the need to read in new swatches or use a colour measurement device

“We’re amazed at the response ONYX 19 received at our FESPA announcement last month,” said Bryan Manwaring, Director of Product Marketing at Onyx Graphics. “Customers are already seeing the Spark Engine at work through increased production capacity, while DeviceLink+ is creating new possibilities to achieve outstanding colour output that can all be automated at the click of a button.”

ONYX 19 software also introduces new Step and Repeat functionality for a 600 percent performance increase; new dot pattern technology for the smoothest output on all wide-format print applications including soft signage and textile; adds nest trim box features for weeding and finishing print and cut jobs; and is the first and only solution to provide the ability to build iccMAX v5 profiles. Coupled with the latest Adobe PDF Print Engine (APPE) 5.1, ONYX 19 is a winning combination for any print application.

Highlights of ONYX 19 include:

• Advanced compression algorithms in the Spark Engine increase RIP speeds up to 400 percent
• New threading pipeline in the Spark Engine improves printer performance up to 200 percent
• New rendering technology in the Spark Engine increases Step and Repeat performance up to 600 percent
• Colour management automation controls using DeviceLink+
• Consistent colour across devices using DeviceLink+
• iccMAX v5 profiling for next-generation colour output accuracy
• New Dot Pattern Technology for the smoothest output on all wide-format print applications
• Automation for Step and Repeat jobs for seamless workflows
• Print Isolation Technology to ensure print production continues in the event of printer failure
• Nest trim box to save time weeding and finishing jobs

Availability

ONYX 19 software – covering the entire product portfolio of ONYX solutions including ONYX Thrive print workflow, and ONYX RIP products including ONYX PosterShop, and ONYX RIPCenter – is now available to all ONYX Advantage customers by requesting a key update and to all other customers through a license purchase.

About Onyx Graphics, Inc.

Leading the market since 1989, Onyx Graphics is dedicated to helping customers increase productivity, reduce costs, and gain a competitive edge with superior print and colour quality. Its passion for delivering superb color led to the development of ONYX Colour, Onyx Graphics’ own colour engine optimised specifically for large format inkjet printing. Innovative, productive, and satisfied customers around the globe help motivate the company to continually develop and enhance its leading-edge technologies. Global channel partnerships and longstanding relationships with printer manufacturers position Onyx Graphics as a market leader in powerful, reliable, large format printing workflow software. For more information, visit www.onyxgfx.com.

Since the pressure to keep up with online shopping is steadily increasing for traditional stores, creating a memorable shopping experience has become an essential setup in regaining customers.

From an appealing presentation of the goods to stunning store interiors – the shopping experience is designed down to the smallest detail. For shop fitting, digitally printable wallpapers are an ideal medium to create sophisticated store designs. Whether opting for geometric designs, advertising messages or landscape photography, almost any design can be applied to the wallpaper. This presents an enormous potential for interior designers. Depending on the product, the wallpapers feature textures just like regular wallpapers do, ranging from woodchip to linen. In terms of the compatible printing technologies, there are printable wallpapers for nearly all solutions, ranging from products for UV-curing inks to latex and solvent inks. Digitally printable wallpapers not only score with their versatility: Many products are ideal for public areas because they are washable, abrasion-resistant and durable. This makes them ideal for high-traffic areas such as shopping malls.

Security guidelines in public areas must be met

Since certain guidelines and codes must be met for public spaces, it is vital that the wallpapers have a fire classification report (in Europe according to EN 13501-1).

Sensational promotion or long-lasting wall design

Whether long-term wall design or short-term promotion – there are suitable products for any purpose. The difference: high-tack wallpapers offer powerful adhesive formulas, suited for long-term adhesion. They can also be applied to difficult substrates – like plywood, chipboard and concrete. For short to medium-term campaigns at the point of sale, there are wallpapers that can quickly be removed without any effort, leaving no residue at all. They are an ideal solution for seasonal sales or short-term discount campaigns.

Eco-friendliness – an increasingly important factor

Just as in many other sectors, the interior design market is moving more and more towards green products. In regards to printable wallpapers, this means focussing increasingly on PVC-free solutions. For Neschen, this meant developing the “Green Wall” range of wallpapers, which are not only PVC- but solvent-free.

Working together just got simpler. Meet HP’s app-based and cloud connected multi-function printer portfolio designed for the architecture, engineering and design community. With seamless set-up and cloud-based connectivity, the portfolio is designed to print, scan and copy from virtually anywhere, with smart apps, interfaces and overall fewer “clicks” to print. Easy and direct “ready when you are” printing means teams of all sizes can better collaborate and move projects forward faster and more efficiently.

The new HP DesignJet T1600 printers and T2600 MFPs, and HP DesignJet XL 3600 MFP are the latest additions to the world’s most secure Large Format printers.¹ HP’s security technology provides the best network protection and keeps the fleet secure, to help prevent print related data loss that can cost $400,000 on average per year.²

HP is also introducing HP PageWide XL 3900 to help teams boost efficiency. Completing the portfolio are new printers for small business and home. The new HP DesignJet T100 and T500 are compact and designed to complement smaller workspaces requiring faster data and mobile communications.  “7 out of 10 architects are being regularly interrupted during work to print for colleagues.³ This seemingly small challenge means there is friction that is holding them back from the next great project,” says Guayente Sanmartín, general manager and global head, HP Large Format Design Printing. “HP is leading the transformation in Large Format for small to medium-size businesses so the workplace printing experience feels as smart and easy as it does at home, enhanced with security for peace-of-mind.”

The new HP DesignJet T1600 and T2600, HP DesignJet XL 3600 MFP, and HP PageWide XL 3900 MFP features:

HP DesignJet T1600 and T2600 – Engineered for collaboration

• Scan
  Capturing changes is easier than ever with background removal, skew and quick sets.

• Easy and direct printing 
  The new 15.6” smart interface allows easy access to project folders or USB files directly from the touchscreen of the device with a few clicks.

• HP Click
  The HP Click printing software allows for easy printing of project sets and PDF documents, with two times less clicks. ⁴

• HP Smart
  The HP Smart app enables printing and scanning capabilities for individuals on the go, using mobile devices.
• Speed
  With printing speeds up to 170 A1/h, project delivery times unleash superior performance and completion rates.
• Automatic Stacking
  The printers provide ready to use multi-size stacking from A4 to A0 – up to 100 A1.
• Security
  HP Secure Boot and Whitelisting keep your network protected, while HP JetAdvantage Security Manager keeps fleets secure.

HP DesignJet XL 3600 MFP – A new standard with the most immediate and robust MFP in the market

The HP DesignJet XL 3600 MFP was designed to create a new standard of reliability. It is optimised to deliver immediate results through the fastest first page out in the market, so that designers do not need to wait in front of the printer.

• Sustainable hardware
  The printer is comprised of 25% recycled parts.⁵
• Lower running costs
  The printer is designed to reduce running costs, with up to 10 times less energy consumption than comparable LED printers.⁶
• Reduced footprint
  A good fit for the office and environment, the printer is more compact than previous models and produces 30% less footprint.⁷
• Silent operation
  With noise levels reaching a maximum of 42db, the printer operates silently to complement office spaces.⁸
• Easier media handling
  The integrated top stacker holds up to 100 pages. 2 spindle-less drawers enable automatic media loading.
  2-in-1 features consolidate monochrome and colour printing into a single device.
• Security
  HP Secure Boot and Whitelisting keep your network protected, while HP JetAdvantage Security Manager keeps fleets secure.

HP PageWide XL 3900 MFP Printer – New addition to the production portfolio

To complement the production portfolio for technical departments, HP is also introducing HP PageWide XL 3900 to help teams work even faster, save costs and consolidate two devices into one with mono and colour printing.

• Fast access to prints
  HP Click and intuitive scanning workflows enable impressive production delivery, with both instant and sustained speeds at 6 pages per minute and easy submission.⁹
 
• Keeps costs under control
  The HP Smart Tracker software uses half the power consumption and tracking capabilities, running at lower cost than LED. 
• Device consolidation
  Combining colour technology and workflow efficiency, the printer delivers stunning prints with vivid colours, crisp lines, fine detail, and smooth grayscale that beat LED.¹⁰

HP DesignJet T100/T500 – Simplified large format printing designed with a smaller footprint

Ideal for architecture studios and AEC offices preferring a smaller footprint, the HP DesignJet T100/T500 printers are HP’s most affordable plotters, offering a convenient solution for on-demand printing. The printers are also the first DesignJet plotters capable of automating repetitive workflows.

• Built-in small format tray
  The 2-1 built-in A3 and A4 paper trays enable seamless printing of quality drawings. 
• HP Bright Office Inks
  HP Bright Office Inks allow for high quality printing on a wide range of applications, including sharp lines and precise details with up to 2400 DPIs and original HP-GL/2 compatibility. 
• HP Click
  The HP Click function makes PDF printing simple with just one click, optimising media usage and costs while achieving error free printing for projects including batch printing. 
• HP Poster App
  The HP Poster App is an easy online design tool with thousands of free templates which can be used to create and print professional posters. 
• HP Smart
  The HP Smart app allows mobile printing through smartphone devices, with easy access to files saved on online repositories. The Smart Task feature allows printing, uploading files to cloud, and sharing with relevant teams through email in one process. 

Pricing and Availability

Information on country availability, pricing, and retail destinations vary region by region.¹¹

About HP

HP Inc. creates technology that makes life better for everyone, everywhere. Through our product and service portfolio of personal systems, printers, and 3D printing solutions, we engineer experiences that amaze. More information about HP Inc. is available at http://www.hp.com.

1 Applicable to the HP DesignJet T1700 Printer series, HP DesignJet Z9⁺ PostScript® Printer series, and HP DesignJet Z6 PostScript® Printer series, HP DesignJet XL 3600 Multifunction Printer series, HP DesignJet T2600 Multifunction Printer series, and HP DesignJet T1600 Printer series. Advanced embedded security features are based on HP review of 2019 published embedded security features of competitive printers, as of February 2019.


2 Quocirca, Global Print Security Landscape (2019). According to Quocirca, “Print related data breaches are frequent and costly. 11% of all security incidents are print related, equating to an average of nine print-related incidents per year. 59% of these lead to data losses, costing an average of £313,000 per-annum to deal with. Other impacts include lost productivity and revenue.” For more information, please see: https://quocirca.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Quocirca-Print-Security-Feb-2019-Final-Web.pdf


3 HP Internal Research (2018). One of the main learnings resulting from the research carried out by the Customer Experience and Design team in relation to workgroup environments was that in 76% of architectural offices, people with large format printing needs ask content creators to print for them monthly, creating a potential source of conflict within the office. The study was done with a total sample of 27 customers including: a c-space survey, call interviews, in-house usability tests and field visits.


4 Based on comparable submission printing software from competition. Printing a 5-page project of PDF Mixed job set containing A1 size landscape and portrait documents.


5 See product data sheet for more information.


6 Based on comparable printers using LED technology and capable of printing 4-6 D/A1 pages per minute and which represent more than 70% of the share of low-volume LED printers in the US and Europe according to IDC as of November 2018. Conclusions based on internal HP testing for a use scenario printing a 100% print-coverage plot on a 914mm plain paper roll, while an original plot is scanned, resulting of an average of 120W. This measure is used to obtain the safety CB Report Certificate under IEC 60950-1.


7 Based on comparable printers using LED technology and capable of printing 4-6 D/A1 pages per minute and which represent more than 40% of the share of low-volume LED printers in the US and Europe according to IDC as of November 2018. Measure done considering operational footprint (with the media drawer open).


8 Based on comparable printers using LED technology and capable of printing 4-6 D/A1 pages per minute and which represent more than 70% of the share of low-volume LED printers in the US and Europe according to IDC as of November 2018. Most quiet operation according to internal HP testing of operation mode and ready/sound mode sound pressure (plain paper, line drawing, normal mode) compared to published specifications of competitive printers and following ISO 7779.


9 See product data sheet for more information.


10 For output produced with HP PageWide XL printers and LED printers from different manufacturers and that represent greater than 50% of the annual shipments of LED printers in North America as of 2018 according to IDC. For testing criteria, see http://www.hp.com/go/pagewidexlclaims


11 Pricing and availability subject to change.

If you weren't convinced already, we will make sure you will be now! Read the following post on 6 reasons to choose our Summa roll cutters above any other available on the market. Obviously, there are more than 6 reasons, but type space is limited, so here we go!

1. True Tangential Technology

A True Tangential head has a motor, controlling the direction of the blade at all times, enabling to cut thick and hard substrates with unsurpassed high detail and quality. Summa offers a True Tangential cutting head, enabling to cut materials quickly and concisely up to 47 mils thick. All other cutters in the market use drag (swivel) cutting heads and an improved process called “Tangential emulation”. Tangential emulation tries to simulate this control but does not have any motorised control over the blade. Consequently, tangential emulation will never provide for the same accuracy than if you were to use a cutter with a True Tangential cutting head.

2. Repeatability

‘Repeatability’ is a term, which refers to how accurately the cutter keeps cutting whilst media is being transported. The repeatability guaranteed on the SummaCut line of cutters is 8 m (26 ft.); on the S Class 2 line, this would be 12 m (40 ft.). The closest competitor in the market only guarantees 1.9 m (6.5 ft.), which is quite a difference. It is important the cutter is able to process the appropriate dimensions accurately at all times, which can be guaranteed with Summa’s repeatability feature. Note: All cutters are measured on a spec called ‘tracking’. However, ‘tracking’ only defines how accurately the transport of the media occurs. This could be misleading because it doesn’t specifically refer to the movement of media whilst cutting.

3. Barcode Feature

Unique to Summa is the ability to read barcodes with the onboard sensor. The barcode will automatically communicate with the software to retrieve the necessary cut data and initiate the cutting. After finishing the job, the cutter will automatically search for the next barcode and repeat the process. This allows for an entire roll of printed graphics to be cut without user intervention. Maximal automation and productivity are yours to enjoy!

4. OPOS Sensor

Summa uses a “white light technology” to recognise registration marks and barcodes.  The Summa OPOS (white light) sensor is able to detect registration marks on all UV protection films. Other cutters in the market are still using the old IR (Infra-Red) light. However, all laminates have built-in UV inhibitors nowadays. When using these old IR sensors, the cutter will encounter difficulty to recognise (be able to find) the registration marks because the UV light is being filtered by the UV protected laminate. The OPOS sensor is also capable of registering other colours beyond black on white (dark, blue, grey, etc..).

5. Unique Summa Line: S Class 2 OPOS CAM Series

Summa offers the possibility to have a camera – OPOS CAM – mounted on the cutter instead of a light sensor. The main advantage here is speed. The OPOS CAM system can register marks 10 x faster than any light sensor. This is a considerable increase in productivity, especially when processing entire rolls. Another advantage is the ability to create a “camera profile” for every challenging media type (ie. reflective). This profile will enable the cutter to register marks on any substrate because the profile can be created specifically to the media type.

6. G-Performance, boost your S Class 2 performance up to 40%

Transform your S Class 2 cutter into a lean, mean and faster cutting machine than ever before thanks to the G-Performance feature. No matter whether it be a cutter with tangential or drag knife technology or our smallest or largest cutter in the product range, the G-performance will exceed every model's speed limit. However, speed is not the only advantage you will benefit from. Your S Class 2 cutter will be able to also read registration marks, to achieve a perfect cut, even with print deformations, at an ever faster pace!

From 14 to 17 May 2019 in Munich, Sihl is presenting innovative products in the fields of advertising, POS and dye sublimation which are suitable for numerous applications.

SIHL materials for signage and signposts

Self-adhesive films enable a variety of advertising applications in addition to the production of signage and signposts. This is ensured by base materials and adhesives which have been optimised for the application and which guarantee particularly easy application and removal of signs for seasonal shop window campaigns or shop fittings.

For this, SIHL is presenting the two permanently adhesive vinyl films for waterbased inks SA Vinyl Plus 110 P-CA FR AQ matt 3635 and SA Vinyl Plus 110 P-CA FR AQ glossy 3585 for high quality labels and advertising materials in photographic quality which, as of today, are B1-certified. The two films can be bonded to flat and smooth surfaces and are thus ideally suited for the production of indoor signs and advertising media. These matt or glossy finish films are optimised for waterbased printing. Thanks to its water-resistant coating, it is also suitable for short-term outdoor applications when printed with pigment inks.

In addition to these products, Sihl will also be focusing on its range of environmentally friendly, wet-strength papers for outdoor use at FESPA. One focus will be on the presentation of sustainable materials such as the TriSolv billboard papers for poster and advertising applications, which is FSC®-certified (Forest Stewardship Council).

SIHL materials for lightboxes and window advertising

Brilliant colours, excellent contrast and a high radiance are the basis for eye-catching lightbox and shop window advertising that attract everyone’s attention.

Visitors can expect a new backlit material that offers excellent contrast and a high radiance for their designs. The Backlit Film Plus 220 Satin (3560) is very well suited for the creation of lightbox advertising with solvent, latex and UV ink systems. This media can be applied both indoor or outdoor, as well as in humid conditions.

The new backlit film has numerous advantages. It allows use with both reflected and transmitted light sources, has a high contrast and produces rich black densities, as well as quick drying and having high ink absorption capacity. Its thickness of 220 μm permits installation in lightboxes without kinks and its good scratch resistance ensures robust printed images.

SIHL materials for trade fairs, POS and events

Modern trade fair stands, events and sales rooms thrive on the fact that effective advertising elements such as a point of sale or a trade fair display with vibrant and brilliant colours are effective in seconds. For this, Sihl offers an extensive range of exclusive print media with a fine finish.

Sihl is presenting another new film in its roll-up range. The Roll-Up Film Plus 210 SB matt AQ (3597) was designed for the production of roll-up and display graphics with water-based and latex printers. The matt coating ensures excellent scratch resistance, as well as high print quality and brilliant colour reproduction. This polypropylene/polyester composite is tear resistant guaranteeing problem-free processing and thanks to the silverback offers high opacity, the thickness allows good flatness and it is suitable for all mid-term applications.

SIHL 3D sublimation films for furniture, interior design, gadgets and advertising media

In Munich, Sihl will present two prototypes of dye sublimation film for dye sublimation printing, that can then be transferred either to 3D furniture pieces for unique designs or to 3D objects for the gift sector, such as mobile phones.

The two SubliColor Gadget and SubliColor Object films meet the most important criteria and requirements, such as high transfer rates, quick drying and flexible softening of the material, which enables the film to be applied perfectly to all corners of 3D objects.

In hall A5, on stand J15 Sihl looks forward to all of its visitors!

At the upcoming ISA Sign Expo, Onyx Graphics, Inc., will be providing a first glimpse of the next major release of ONYX software that offers print service providers the ability to go beyond the limitations of wide-format print. The next major release will be available for the full range of ONYX solutions including ONYX Thrive print workflow software and ONYX RIP products. Demonstrations will be held in the Onyx Graphics booth 2347 at the ISA Sign Expo, April 24-26 in Las Vegas.

This latest release builds upon industry-leading ONYX software version 18.5, a three-time award winner for best colour management as well as RIP and print workflow solutions in 2018. “Our customers deserve the very best solutions to help them challenge the status-quo of digital inkjet print applications,” Said Kevin Murphy, President and CEO of Onyx Graphics. “This upcoming release does exactly that and we couldn’t be happier that it commemorates our 30th anniversary.”

The announcement of a new ONYX software version also coincides with the anniversary of the International Sign Association. Over the years, The International Sign Association has become a leading industry voice for print service providers everywhere on the latest and most innovative print solutions. “As ISA celebrates its 75th anniversary, we have spent time looking back at how our industry has changed and forward at coming innovations,” said Lori Anderson, President and CEO of the International Sign Association.  “For the past 30 years, Onyx Graphics has been there driving our industry forward, and I know that they will continue to play an important role in future innovations. Congratulations on 30 amazing years!”

Availability

The next major release of ONYX software is anticipated to be globally available in summer 2019 covering the entire product portfolio of ONYX solutions including ONYX Thrive print workflow software; and ONYX PosterShop and ONYX RIPCenter RIP software. It will be available to all ONYX Advantage customers by requesting a key update and to all other customers through a license purchase. As part of the company’s 30th anniversary, Onyx Graphics is promoting a special offer for all ISA Sign Expo booth visitors. Customers are encouraged to visit www.onyxgfx.com for more information.

Teaming with industry leaders

Onyx Graphics proudly supports the widest range of industry-leading printers and manufacturers. In addition to the Onyx Graphics booth, ONYX software will be driving printers in numerous partner booths around the show. Visit Onyx Graphics at booth 2347 for a complete list of partner booths showcasing the power of ONYX software.

About Onyx Graphics, Inc.

Leading the market since 1989, Onyx Graphics is dedicated to helping customers increase productivity, reduce costs, and gain a competitive edge with superior print and color quality. Its passion for delivering superb color led to the development of ONYX Color, Onyx Graphics’ own color engine optimized specifically for large format inkjet printing. Innovative, productive, and satisfied customers around the globe help motivate the company to continually develop and enhance its leading-edge technologies. Global channel partnerships and longstanding relationships with printer manufacturers position Onyx Graphics as a market leader in powerful, reliable, large format printing workflow software. For more information, visit www.onyxgfx.com.

– 30 –

ONYX and ONYX PosterShop are registered trademarks, and ONYX Thrive, ONYX RIPCenter are trademarks, of ONYX Graphics, Inc. All other product and company names are trademarks or registered trademarks and are the property of their owners and are respectfully acknowledged.

Summa nv, a leading company of high-end cutting plotters and finishing systems, has developed a new in-house software platform to support its product range: GoSuite. The first software module within this GoSuite platform is called GoProduce. The software is bound to facilitate the operator’s work on the F Series flatbed and secure optimum rentability at the customer, partner, and installer production sites. The GoProduce software is ready for immediate release and implementation worldwide.

Advance with the right software

Flatbed cutters are the customer’s hardware of choice when they need to get to market fast. With this speed ever-increasing, the software needs to be up to par to make sure the hardware can keep a more than steady pace at the smallest error margin.

With the F Series as the fastest growing series in the Summa range, Summa selected this series as the first one to be accompanied with software to match. Instead of optimising or tailoring existing solutions, Summa opted to develop the new software platform entirely in-house.

GoProduce offers the following functionalities:

• Flexible and tailored import of files to ensure a smooth print and cut workflow integration 
• Extensive material database which is able to automatically select the ideal tool and its settings based on the material  
• Integrated tutorials for direct support, also available on Youtube  
• Registration of square or round marks, supporting all RIPs and PDF formats & many more…  

To secure an easy integration and implementation worldwide, the Summa development team made sure the software has:

• A modern look and feel with an intuitive interface and easy navigation
• Straightforward action sets for fast automated production
• Smart options for fast routing and quick problem fixing
• A tailorable and extensive material database
• Workflows and functions defined and customisable to the customer’s needs

Plug and play

The software was designed to be plug and play specifically, without any need for hardware installation. Users simply install the drivers, activate their subscription online and start operating.   Geert Pierloot, Product Manager at Summa, explains: “When business is booming, there is no time for extensive training, so we wanted to keep the software as intuitive as possible so it could be implemented quickly and used immediately. Throughout March, we’re having training demonstrations and webinars planned for our dealer network and will be posting YouTube tutorials regularly so people can make the most of the functionalities. The beta tests went smoothly, and users are excited about the user experience and positive results. We’re eager to get the market’s feedback on GoProduce.”

GoProduce for the F Series is intended to make life easier on the operator, by facilitating workflows via action sets. A quick implementation will secure immediate operability enabling any operator to maximise the potential of his F Series cutting and finishing systems.

Legendary performance meets future-proofed profitability

Wim Maes, Executive Member of the Board at Summa, reflects on the importance of GoProduce for the market: “Summa is expanding its product range and is venturing into new markets. We’re convinced software is the efficiency differentiator for companies to become even more productive. So, when we researched on how to grow our solutions’ portfolio with software, we realised we had the in-house expertise to start afresh and provide our customers with the consistent quality and customer service they expect from Summa. We’re proud to say we can now fully tailor our software to our hardware to ensure our customers get to be as efficient and productive as possible.” 

“GoProduce is but the first step in the future direction of cutting and finishing. We aim to stay a frontrunner, by making sure software and hardware are fully aligned for the best profitability and operational stability for any customer and operator in the large format, signage and textile markets. These software advances will future-proof the legendary performance our customers attribute to our solutions.”.

Contex, the world leader in large format scanning, today introduces two new models to the HD Ultra X scanner series. The series now includes 36 and 42 inch models, completing the range of scanning solutions for Contex’s newest line of premium scanners. Introduced in 2018 to rave reviews from the scanning community, the HD Ultra X scanner series, which also includes a 60 inch model, reigns as the market’s fastest and widest scanner series available. The scanner series outperforms the competition in colour matching and image scanning quality, while exceeding environmental standards. The scanner series also boasts numerous productivity-boosting capabilities to accelerate the scanning workflow, while delivering long-term value and a quick ROI. All scanners in the HD Ultra X series are immediately available from distributors worldwide.

“Our customers are thrilled with the capabilities of the HD Ultra X scanners, and the new models give them even more options to suit their requirements,” comments Jacob Bendix, CCO and VP of Global Sales and Marketing. “Productivity, improved workflow, and colour matching have been the center of our attention, and our customers can instantly benefit from these advancements the HD Ultra X scanner series.”

HD Ultra X scanner series expanded

The HD Ultra X series uses CCD technology for the best quality images available in the market today. Whether scanning 36, 42, or 60 inches wide, customers can capture originals at an unprecedented 17.8 ips. The common platform also gives customers the same results from each scanner model.

The scanner series includes several unique features and productivity boosters, including true size detection and instant-ON capabilities, which cut valuable seconds from production time. A throttle buffer control also eliminates scanner pauses, allowing operators to continuously feed documents without waiting for scanned data to be processed.

The HD Ultra X series boasts the fastest data transfer of any scanner on the market, made possible by the GB Ethernet xDTR2.5 and USB 3.0 SuperSpeed xDTR3 data transfer technologies.

Exclusive technologies for the most advanced image quality

The advanced technology in the Contex HD Ultra X scanner series offers customers several exclusive imaging advantages, including the highest colour-rendering index (CRI). The scanners are equipped with Contex Perfect Light, which uses the latest LED technology combined with specially developed diffusion filters.

Sharp scans are achieved by Contex’s exclusive lens spherical correction technology and accuracy lens enhancement (ALE), which minimizes optical distortion. Each scanner model in the the HD Ultra X series is equipped with X-Rite ICC colour technology and Fujifilm camera lenses, which deliver greater depth of focus — 0.3 inches — and CCD optics of up to 1200 dpi. The depth of focus allows users to capture documents of all types — especially thick, delicate, or with irregularities - with ease.

Intuitive scanning advancements

With just the press of a lever, Contex’s Optimal Thickness Adjustment Control (OTAC) enables users to quickly adjust the HD Ultra X to the required paper thickness. Feather mode also protects delicate originals and extra-thin documents.

A speed-matched roller system ensures fast and easy document loading and eliminates skewing. Operators can choose between center and side loading, or use the adjustable paper guide for smaller documents.

The scanner’s static-free, touchless glass system and steel anti-static feed table also minimize friction, while reducing maintenance costs over time from worn scanner glass.

Exceeding environmental standards

The HD Ultra X scanner series exceeds Energy Star consumption standards and is RoHS compliant.

Additionally, the LED light source, guaranteed to last the scanner’s lifetime, saves energy by automatically turning off in between scans. Instant-ON scanning capabilities also allows operators to simply load and scan originals, without requiring the scanner to warm-up.

HD Ultra X scanner series availability

The HD Ultra X scanners are available as stand-alone (Contex AIO optional) or in a ScanStation Pro configuration, which includes a stand, touchscreen monitor, and Nextimage REPRO software (Contex AIO optional). The HD Ultra X scanners can be networked to any leading printer.

About Contex

As the world's largest developer and producer of large format imaging solutions, Contex leads the market with innovative technology and advanced scan and copy software applications. Sold worldwide in more than 90 countries, Contex solutions are recognized in a wide range of industries for reliability, value, high performance, and superb image quality.

MakerBot, the pioneer of desktop 3D printing, introduces a new category for the professional segment with the launch of Method, the first performance 3D printer. Performance 3D Printing bridges the gap between desktop and industrial 3D printing by bringing features that were previously only available on industrial 3D printers to professionals at a significantly lower cost. Method leverages industrial technologies and expertise from Stratasys® (NASDAQ: SSYS) and combines it with the accessibility and ease of use for which MakerBot is known.

Industrial technologies on the MakerBot Method 3D printer include a Circulating Heated Chamber, Dual Performance Extruders, Precision PVA Water Soluble Supports, Dry-Sealed Material Bays, and an Ultra-Rigid Metal Frame. Method also includes built-in sensors and automation features that are designed to provide users with a seamless experience. The printer’s industrial features control the 3D printing process to deliver a high level of precision, reliability, and dimensional accuracy at an accessible price. This technological breakthrough defines the new Performance 3D Printing category.

“In an age of disruption, businesses are under pressure to innovate and bring products to market faster. Current desktop 3D printers derive their DNA from hobbyist 3D printers and are insufficient for many applications in the professional segment,” said Nadav Goshen, MakerBot CEO. “We believe that Method is the next step in helping organisations adopt 3D printing at a larger scale. Method provides a breakthrough in 3D printing that enables industrial designers and mechanical engineers to innovate faster and become more agile. It is built for professionals who need immediate access to a 3D printer that can deliver industrial performance to accelerate their design cycles. Method is developed to bring industrial technologies into an accessible platform, breaking the price-performance barrier and redefining rapid prototyping in the process.”

Method is designed to deliver industrial reliability and precision by carefully controlling every aspect of the 3D print environment, resulting in repeatable and consistent parts with ± 0.2 mm dimensional accuracy1 as well as vertical layer uniformity, and cylindricity. Until now, this level of precision has been limited to industrial-grade 3D printers. The dual extrusion system found in Method combined with water-soluble PVA provides a superior surface finish, and enables unlimited design freedom and unrestricted geometries, such as complex overhangs without scarring.

Method allows users to turn their CAD files to parts faster by providing a seamless and reliable workflow without tinkering, up to 2X faster print speeds than desktop 3D printers2. Method offers out-of-the-box deployment and a hassle-free guided setup, making it easy to install and use. Method also includes automated maintenance procedures and support to ensure a smooth and seamless user experience. Method delivers industrial-level performance at one-third of the first-year cost of ownership of an entry-level industrial 3D printer. With Method, teams can reduce design risks by testing and validating prototypes with accuracy early and often, minimizing potential cost overruns later in production. It is also designed to provide an elevated level of speed and control into product design cycles while reducing production costs – helping businesses bring products to market faster.

INDUSTRIAL RELIABILITY AND PRECISION

From concept validation to functional part performance, Method is created to deliver consistent print results that match design dimensions.

• The Circulating Heated Chamber controls the temperature and quality of every layer. In providing full active heat immersion during the entire duration of the print, Method allows printed materials to cool at a controlled rate, providing higher dimensional accuracy while improving layer adhesion and part strength
• Dual Performance Extruders are built for high-speed printing without compromising part accuracy. A dual-drive gear system grips the material securely while a powerful 19:1 gear ratio provides up to 3X the push force of a typical desktop 3D printer. This allows Method to provide a consistent feed of material into the hot end to produce consistent geometry. The new lengthened thermal core is up to 50% longer than a standard desktop hot end to enable faster extrusion rates and, allowing for smooth extrusion throughout its high-speed movements and accelerations.
• Precision PVA Dissolvable Supports enable fast and easy support removal without compromising part design or dimensional accuracy. Water-soluble PVA provides unrestricted geometric freedom and superior print quality and surface finish without the need for harsh solvents of industrial 3D printers or manual labor of removing breakaway supports.
• Dry-Sealed Material Bays form a seal to keep filament material pristine and reduce moisture absorption. A suite of built-in sensors monitors humidity and alerts users of any changes to the environment - a feature previously only available in industrial 3D printers. This feature is especially crucial for water-soluble PVA, which quickly absorbs moisture when left in the open with devastating consequences on print quality.
• MakerBot Materials for Method are manufactured to exacting diameter and quality specifications. Shipped in a vacuum-sealed metalized polyester bag, quality can be preserved right up until opening. MakerBot offers two categories of materials for use with Method: Precision and Specialty. Precision Materials are extensively tested by MakerBot for the highest reliability and measurably accurate parts and include MakerBot Tough, MakerBot PLA, and MakerBot PVA. Specialty Materials are for users looking for materials with advanced properties to push the limits of what's possible. These materials provide basic print performance and can require additional workflow steps to print successfully. The first material on the platform is PETG, one of the most widely used polymers with excellent engineering properties, with more to follow.
• The Ultra-Rigid Metal Frame runs the full length of the Method body to offset flexing. Less flexing means more consistent prints with better part accuracy and fewer failures. 

FASTER, BETTER 3D PRINTING

Method makes industrial 3D printing technologies accessible to individual designers and engineers. Advanced workflow features turn Method into an everyday tool that accelerates the agile design process. Users can turn their CAD files to parts faster and print up to 2X faster than desktop 3D printers.

• The Smart Spool provides valuable information, including type, color, and amount of material remaining via an RFID chip directly to MakerBot Print, while desiccant in the spool maintains a low moisture level inside the drawer bay.
• The 5” Capacitive Touchscreen provides the latest status updates of current print jobs and allows users to navigate the menus in the most intuitive way.
• MakerBot Print Software easily integrates with 25 of the most popular CAD programs to allow designers and engineers to design with what they know best. For easy collaboration, teams can also save 3D files as projects and share them via the native Cloud Management platform. Method’s built-in onboard camera also allows users to monitor their print progress remotely with MakerBot Print or the MakerBot Mobile app.
• The Spring Steel Build Plate provides true flatness for unyielding part accuracy and enables the printed part to pop off the plate

The MakerBot Method 3D printer has been tested by MakerBot for over 220,0003 hours of system reliability, subsystem, and print quality testing.

The MakerBot Method 3D Printer has a starting price of £5,999. Shipping of Method is expected to begin in Q1 2019. Pre-orders are now available. To learn more about the MakerBot Method 3D printer, visit makerbot.com/Method.

MakerBot also has dedicated business offerings that are created to reduce downtime and keep teams moving. To learn more about Method for Business, visit makerbot.com/Method-for-Business.

ABOUT MAKERBOT

MakerBot, a subsidiary of Stratasys Ltd. (Nasdaq: SSYS), is a global leader in the 3D printing industry. We help create the innovators of today and the businesses and learning institutions of the future. Founded in 2009 in Brooklyn, NY, MakerBot strives to redefine the standards for 3D printing for reliability, accessibility, precision, and ease­-of-­use. Through this dedication, MakerBot has one of the largest install bases in the industry and also runs Thingiverse, the largest 3D printing community in the world. We believe there's an innovator in everyone, so we make the 3D printing tools that make your ideas matter. Discover innovation with MakerBot 3D printing.

NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

The statements in this press release relating to Stratasys’ and/or MakerBot's beliefs regarding the benefits consumers will experience from the MakerBot Method 3D Printer and its features, and MakerBot Materials for Method, Stratasys’ and MakerBot's expectation on the timing of shipping the MakerBot Method 3D Printer and MakerBot Materials for Method, are forward-looking statements reflecting management's current expectations and beliefs. These forward-looking statements are based on current information that is, by its nature, subject to rapid and even abrupt change. Due to risks and uncertainties associated with Stratasys' and MakerBot's business, actual results could differ materially from those projected or implied by these forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: the risk that consumers will not perceive the benefits of the MakerBot Method 3D Printer and MakerBot Materials for Method to be the same as Stratasys and MakerBot do; the risk that unforeseen technical difficulties will delay the shipping of the MakerBot Method 3D Printer and MakerBot Materials for Method; and other risk factors set forth under the caption “Risk Factors” in Stratasys' most recent Annual Report on Form 20-F, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on February 28, 2018. Stratasys (or MakerBot) is under no obligation (and expressly disclaims any obligation) to update or alter its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as otherwise required by the rules and regulations of the SEC.

Summa, a leading manufacturer of high-end cutting plotters, proudly presents two new sizes of their finishing flatbed systems. The F3232 and F3220 are based on the proven technology of the Summa F Series. Through the expansion of the flatbed series,  Summa strives to improve the synergy with the large format digital printer market and to meet the needs of their customers. The new flatbeds are expected to be ready for shipment in February / April 2019.

Fully equipped for the textile market

Within the world of large format digital printing, most common sizes of textile printers are equipped with a working width of 3.2 m to be able to print large rolls of textiles. Both new Summa flatbed cutters, the F3232 and F3220, also cover a working width of 3.2 m, making them the ideal companion to process common, popular print sizes with utmost ease and accuracy.

The matching working area sizes of the textile printer and Summa’s new finishing cutter sizes will lead to a print and cut workflow, fitting seamlessly into each other and offering endless solutions to the flourishing textile market.

Geert Pierloot, Summa’s Product Marketing Manager, points out: “The new sizes of flatbed systems enrich Summa's platform with advanced finishing solutions, especially within the textile industry.  Together with the recent launch of a more powerful High Torque Rotary Module (HT RM), both the F3232 and F3220 are the ideal workhorses to serve the textile market in the processing of all sorts of mesh fabrics, flags, and banners."

Processing large board material in a flash

However, not only the textile market will benefit from Summa's two new sizes of flatbed finishing systems. Then both flatbed sizes are also perfectly suited to cut the increasingly popular board sizes of 3 m x 2 m. Additionally, the F3232 with its working area of 3.2 m x 3.2 m, has the inclusive feature: Summa’s Tandem Mode. This feature will increase productivity of the customer’s workflow by using the front zones and rear zones alternately. The Tandem Mode will be most beneficial when processing board sizes of 1.5 m x 3 m. All existing tools and models within the F Series gamut are designed to fit each size of the flatbed range, the F3232 and F3220 sizes inclusive. This ensures the highest versatility to process all kinds of material and offer numerous high-end solutions to the sign making, textile, and digital print industries.

About Summa

Every day, for more than 3 decades, Summa delivers the world's highest-quality vinyl and contour cutters, finishing flatbeds and laser cutters without compromise. Summa provides cutting edge solutions for the printing, signage, display, apparel and packaging industries. Summa’s global headquarters is located in Gistel, Belgium.