Hardware - Wide Format Print

 

Roland Launches Revolutionary 64” VersaCAMM VS-640 – One Big Printer/Cutter. One Small Price. Three Great Configurations.

Roland DG, the leading manufacturer and supplier to the sign and allied industries of inkjet printing, cutting systems and related consumables today announced the launch of the new, 64” VersaCAMM VS-640. Available in three configurations, this next-generation printer/cutter continues the record of innovation established by Roland’s VersaCAMM line, and delivers entirely new application potential with genuine metallic ink and the advanced ink handling technology required to print it. The printer is also available configured to print dual CMYK for top quality output at high production speeds, and as a Hi-Fi colour printer with light cyan and light magenta, plus white ink.

Positioned squarely at professional graphics producers such as sign and display manufacturers, the VersaCAMM VS-640 has the potential to redefine what a wide format inkjet printer can do for graphics producers and what wide format digital inkjet print can do for their customers.

Configured to print Roland’s award-winning new Eco-Sol Max metallic ink, the printer produces a dazzling range of pure metallic and pearlescent colours. The user can freely combine silver, process colour and white to effortlessly create a range of specialist effects yet to be imagined. Equipped with a VS-640 configured for metallic ink, the user can produce effects that were once the exclusive province of costly offset or screen processes. Now they’re possible without costly origination or specialised media for use anywhere conventional durable inkjet output can be used - and in thousands of places it never has been.

The VS-640 also features a new print head which enables a greater range of variable dots to be printed. When configured with light cyan, light magenta and white ink, the result is immediately apparent in the printer’s output. Images rich in colour and density now display even smoother gradations, and solid colours are faithfully rendered free of artefacts. Roland’s Intelligent Pass Control further contributes to productivity and quality, elevating the VS-640’s Hi-Fi output into a class of its own beyond four-colour.

For users looking for outright productivity, the VS-640 is available configured with a dual CMYK ink setup. In this configuration, the printer is able to cruise at high production speeds while maintaining quality standards normally associated with unidirectional print. Free from chromatic artefacts, the output stands close comparison with output from printers produced at much slower speeds and gives users of the VS-640 a distinct and measurable commercial edge when addressing the volume markets for print.

Whatever configuration is chosen, the VersaCAMM VS-640 provides a robust 64” print&cut platform in one manageable footprint. Easy to work with, maintenance is largely automatic and requires little in the way of operator intervention. The VS-640 boasts the same ink recirculation system as that introduced on the SolJet Pro III XC-540MT, which prevents the pigment in metallic and white ink from settling, and thus reduces ink wastage and running costs. Also, thanks to a heavy-duty take-up unit, unattended print&cut operation is possible and accuracy is maintained over the longest production runs.

Metallic ink and other configurations ask a lot of the RIP used to drive the printer. Roland VersaWorks 4.0 colour management RIP software is supplied with the VersaCAMM VS-640. VersaWorks supports the Roland Color System, which accurately reproduces spot colours from colour charts and swatches. The Roland Metallic Color library in VersaWorks features metallic colours that print using CMYK+MT in a single pass. This palette features over five hundred colours, including gold, silver, bronze and other metallics, so that users can simply choose a colour from the list in VersaWorks to apply to their graphics. VersaWorks’ other talents also include estimating ink usage and other productivity enhancing features which work with the VS-640 to make it a production orientated partnership.

The VersaCAMM VS-640 also features the all-new Roland OnSupport, a diagnostic support package that assists the user in informing them of tasks such as print finish, low ink or emergency stop via email alerts. A perfect tool for people who cannot afford to be with the printer 24/7 Roland OnSupport is the start of complete control for print producers everywhere.

Despite its innovation-led features and the entirely new possibilities they introduce, the Roland VersaCAMM VS-640 is priced to appeal to print producers of more or less any size at £17,999, including the take-up unit. The first opportunity to see this innovative new machine will be at this year’s Sign and Digital UK, 13-15 of April, where it will be making its European debut.

 

Roland VersaCAMM VS-640 Features:

 

• 64” wide printer/cutter with the latest cutting-edge print-head technology for unmatched print quality and versatility.
  The new print head fires additional smaller and larger droplets than the previous model, totally seven different sizes for more precision printing with reliability.
  New variable droplet technology automatically optimizes the drop size, selecting the most suitable three droplet sizes from the seven available. The result is beautiful and smooth gradation for close viewing. Roland Intelligent Pass Control® also assures the highest productivity whilst maintaining smooth gradations and flawless solid colours
• Compatible with a wide range of media including vinyl, banner, canvas, paper and  transparent film
• Maximum print speed of 23m²/hr
• Available in three ink configurations:
  8 colour CMYK + Metallic Silver + White for unique metallic applications to differentiate from others and the brightest white text, graphics and floods
  6 colour CMYK+LcLm for beautiful and smooth gradation and a broad range of applications
  4 colours dual CMYK for the most economical production
• Metallic Silver ECO-SOL MAX ink
  512 metallic colours available in the Roland Color System Library
  Combines with CMYK for a spectrum of new metallic hues including gold, bronzes and a wide range of pearlescent colours.
  Just select one of the 512 metallic colours available from the Roland Color System Library and add to your graphic design
• Roland’s unique Advanced Ink Circulation System
  Prevents the pigment in metallic and white inks from settling and reduce running costs
  Requires no manual intervention
• Roland’s integrated Print&Cut technology quickly and easily prints and digitally die cuts finished graphics on demand into virtually any shape
• Take-up system (TUC-2)
  Rolls up Print&Cut graphics automatically for unattended production
  Handles media roll weights up to 30kg (66.1lbs)
• VersaWorks® Professional Colour Management RIP Software included

 

 

With continued demand for short run production, lower costs and greater creativity across the board in direct-to-textile printing, the introduction of Mimaki's new TX400-1800B textile inkjet printer looks set to deliver a peerless solution for the apparel, furnishings and soft signage markets.

Historically, production textile printing has required long runs, cumbersome un-environmentally friendly processes and the costs and time associated with rotary or flat screen printing. The introduction of the Mimaki TX400 provides a solution for volume production of high quality direct-to-textile prints onto a myriad range of fabrics.

With a 1.8m print width and production speeds of around 25sq m / hour, the TX400-1800B utilises an adhesive belt carrier system to stabilise fabrics that have a tendency to stretch and contract during printing. This technology ensures a high quality of result, increased speed and reduced ink usage - alongside the capability of printing to traditionally 'difficult' materials. The high speeds are achieved even with an 8 colour inkset and at detailed resolutions - and the newly designed heater system allows for the rapid drying of the wetted out fabric before it goes onto the powered take-up roller. This also incorporates Mimaki's Web Tension Control System that provides consistent tension over the full width of the print - whether on light or heavyweight cloths.

The machine's inbuilt UISS (Uninterrupted Ink Supply System) automatically switches between ink sacks as the ink becomes spent, easily fulfilling long run, unattended print jobs. With the use of Mimaki's new two litre bulk ink containers, the ink cost is reduced significantly too. Inks for the machine include reactive dye (for printing to cotton and silk), acid dye (for silk, nylon and wool) and dye sublimation inks for polyester prints. As such; the range of work that can be produced with the printer is vast - from haute couture silk scarves through to flags and fabric banners, upholstery and sportswear - the list is endless!

Hybrid's marketing manager, Duncan Jefferies comments; "Production digital textile printing is all about reducing costs, lead times and waste, whilst maintaining quality and creativity. The Mimaki TX400 makes the introduction of a low inventory business model possible, drastically reduces environmental impact and delivers what the customer wants, in the time that they need it."

The TX400-1800B joins the dye sub specific 1800D model at the head of Mimaki's direct-to-textile printer range - adding the adhesive belt to its sister machine's feature list. Delivery of both is expected to commence in Spring 2010 with demonstrations available through Hybrid's authorised textile reseller network.

 

With so many manufacturers’ warranty programmes and third-party options containing disclaimers, limitations and strict conditions, Tech8’s breakdown cover and preventative maintenance schemes have now been extended to cater for more printer and ink combinations, thus bringing peace of mind to users. The only precondition is that the machine must be a working model and fully operational.

Tech8’s warranty schemes extend beyond printers and also include pre-press equipment and finishing systems. Protection is all-inclusive and fully comprehensive with rapid response times and no hidden costs.

Users of wide-format printers can now rest assured that their equipment which is outside the manufacturer’s warranty terms can now benefit from a highly skilled independent team of specialists. Others are moving to Tech8 simply because the benefits offered are more comprehensive and even include accidental damage plus outside influences such as electricity fluctuations.

Cover for equipment starts from as little as £1.60/day and payment can be made in monthly instalments. Unlike other schemes, there is no limit to the number of claims and all parts, labour and travelling charges are included.

Contacting Tech8 is easy and carried out by registering on-line at www.tech8.eu. Acceptance of printers doesn’t necessarily require a site visit, with customers being given a test file to download, print and return. If the results meet the criteria required, immediate cover is available whilst a site visit can be carried out where a unit needs pre-contract repairs.

All Tech8’s engineers and technicians are fully trained and experienced, and support packages offered by the company include telephone and online help. Around 30 percent of commonly reported problems can be remedied this way, saving time and lost jobs by helping users instantly without the need for a call-out.

Full information on Tech8’s services and further details on pricing is available at www.tech8.eu. More specific queries can be handled by telephone on 0845 8739707.

 

 

Existing Epson Stylus Pro owners can enjoy discounts of up to £900 when purchasing selected models from the Stylus Pro range of large format inkjet printers. This offer has been extended until the end of March this year.

There are several models included in the discount and all satisfy the highest requirements of the proofing, photographic and fine art reproduction markets, with a wider colour gamut for vivid, long-lasting results at a maximum resolution of 2880 x 1440 dpi. The printers can process a wide choice of media from fine art paper to adhesives.

The models are:

 

• Stylus Pro 9900/S A B0/44” printer with 10-colour Ultrachrome HDR inkset and Micro Piezo TFP print head for ultra high speed. A discount of £900 is available.
• Stylus Pro 9880  An A0+/44” printer with 8-colour Ultrachrome K3 inkset and Micro Piezo print head. A discount of £900 is available.
• Stylus Pro 7900/S An A1+/24” printer with 10-colour Ultrachrome HDR inkset and Micro Piezo TFP print head for ultra high speed. A discount of £400 is available.
• Stylus Pro 7880 An A1+/24” printer with 8-colour Ultrachrome K3 inkset and Micro Piezo print head. A discount of £400 is available.

 

For more details and to apply for your discount, please contact your Epson reseller or visit www.epson.co.uk/loyalty

Qualifying printers: Stylus Colour 3000, 1520. Stylus Photo 2000, 2010, R2400. Stylus Pro 3800, 5000, 5500, 4000, 4400, 4800, 7000, 7400, 7500, 7600, 7800, 7880, 9000, 9400, 9500, 9600, 9800, 9880, 10000, 10000CF, 10600. Proof of purchase required.

 

 

Epson announces a simple and cost-effective buy back scheme which is an easy way for business customers to refresh and update old equipment, no matter what brand or model they are currently using.

The scheme provides a complete service, from de-installation of out-dated technology to the installation of new Epson models. The service offers an environmentally friendly option for removal of old equipment, with Epson taking responsibility for recycling in accordance with WEEE regulations.

Customers taking advantage of the buy back scheme will find it competitively priced, so whether they want to replace their printer fleet or upgrade to the latest in projection technology, the fully integrated solution ensures minimum effort for maximum return.

This offer applies to all Epson equipment, from laser printers to scanners to dot matrix printers. The buy back price is based on the condition, age and model of the product. For more information contact your Epson reseller.

 

Wide format printing solution delivers new levels of colour quality and durability to high-end signage market

Spandex has once again increased the revenue-making opportunities for its customers, having added the Epson Stylus Pro GS6000 large format digital inkjet printer to its growing hardware portfolio. Thanks to a new 8-colour ink set, the GS6000 offers the widest colour gamut to date and enables print businesses to produce superb long-lasting durable prints and photo-realistic colours across an increased range of both indoor and outdoor graphic applications.

 

Superior quality and performance

Importantly, the Epson Stylus Pro GS6000 delivers the quality and performance required to meet ever-increasing customer expectations. Users benefit from 160cm-width printing and up to 1440x1440 dpi resolution with the finest ink droplet size of 3.7 picolitres. At the same time, turnaround times are significantly reduced, thanks to print speeds up to 25.2m2/hr using Epson’s variable-sized ink droplet and MicroWeave half-toning technologies. These attributes combine to deliver fast-drying, scratch-resistant prints that are water and UV resistant for up to 1.5 years without lamination.

“With its ability to produce images that dry faster, look better and last longer, the Epson GS6000 sets new standards in wide format printing”, says Jim Rich, Director, Product Management at Spandex. “In what remains a difficult time for print business owners, the GS6000 allows our customers to increase their service capability and offer a greater means of reaping the rewards that come from undertaking high-end sign and graphics projects.”

 

Increased business opportunities

Using the new 8-colour UltraChrome™ GS ink set, which is available in efficient 950 ml cartridges, the GS6000 allows printers to extend their creativity and service offering with unrivalled colours into high-end applications including airport and exhibition graphics, signage, and photo or fine art reproduction. In addition, the ability to switch easily between a range of different substrates makes the GS6000 a versatile production solution for printing stunning, durable graphics in an array of commercial applications.

 

Environmentally- and user-friendly

The Epson GS6000 also offers increased environmental friendliness, via its eco-solvent UltraChrome™ GS ink. As these inks do not emit harmful VOCs, only light ventilation is required and the extra expense of installing additional air purification systems is avoided. As well as an improved working environment, operators also benefit from a large and easy-to-use LCD panel incorporating Epson’s renowned interface, ensuring minimal training time. Support for heavy rolls up to 30kg and an auto-take-up-reel enable versatile media management and standard Giga-Ethernet and USB2.0 allow high-speed connectivity.