HP Unveils New Printing Innovations that Digitize the Office, Help Reduce Costs

PALO ALTO, Calif., Oct. 30, 2012

 

HP today announced new HP Officejet Pro and HP LaserJet printers and content management solutions designed to redefine business and government printing by enabling customers to reduce costs, increase efficiency and digitize the office.

The new offerings represent the largest upgrade to HP’s commercial printers in almost a decade, signifying the integration of intellectual property (IP) and innovation from across the organization.

“Our customers need innovative technology tailored to their workflow that is simple and effective, and helps them conduct business,” said Todd Bradley, executive vice president, HP Printing and Personal Systems. “HP is offering new ways to print that have not previously been possible—with superb speed and performance to drive a new level of office efficiency.”

HP Officejet Pro: Outstanding speed, quality, reliability and cost efficiency for SMBs

HP Officejet Pro X Series desktop printers and multifunction printers (MFP) deliver up to twice the speed at up to half the printing cost compared with color laser printers in their class.(1, 2) This new class of devices is powered by HP PageWide Technology, the next-generation inkjet platform that sets a new standard for small work team printing. It offers small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), remote offices and branch offices high-quality documents at up to 70 pages per minute.(3)

HP LaserJet and cloud-based solutions digitize the office, simplify data access

The creation of vast amounts of business and government data means customers need a way to streamline how information is managed and accessed. The HP LaserJet Enterprise flow MFP M525cand HP LaserJet Enterprise color flow MFP M575c offer higher-performance document processing and sharing. This provides an ideal on-ramp to the digitized world with premium scanning and data entry that speed the transition from a paper to digital office.

The HP flow MFPs can be integrated with content management solutions based on software fromAutonomy, an HP Company, either on-site or via the cloud. By pairing HP printing technology with Autonomy solutions, customers can access, organize and leverage information in documents, audio, video, email and web pages.

The HP Flow CM Professional brings enterprise-class content management to growing businesses, with security features that also support leading banks, legal firms and stock exchanges. The cloud-based offering increases collaboration and productivity by easily capturing, indexing, storing, searching and retrieving documents through a unique user-friendly interface designed with the customer in mind.

The HP Flow CM Enterprise is composed of a set of enterprise content management (ECM) offerings for large organizations that give instant access to vital information and help to integrate, simplify and automate processes to help reduce operating costs, improve employee productivity and assist with compliance efforts.

“The HP Flow CM Professional and HP flow MFPs offer us an opportunity to improve employee productivity via collaboration and streamlined processes, allowing us to focus more time toward our customers and overall business,” said Stephen Cassar, chief executive officer, TICKETsage. “We see these offerings as having a very positive impact on our business—making it easy to scan documents, easy to find them in the cloud-based document management system and easy to print out information.”

Office printing to increase productivity

Organizations of all sizes can address the need to increase productivity while reducing the complexity of their printing environment.

For SMBs looking to increase office efficiencies with fast, powerful prints, HP is offering two additional series of HP LaserJet Pro printers. HP also is introducing new and enhanced document workflow solutions along with HP LaserJet Enterprise series printers that simplify productivity in enterprise organizations. For workers on the go, HP now offers greater access to print from cloud-based applications, incorporating Google Apps mailbox support through its HP ePrint Enterprise.(4)

For improving workflow through targeted customer communications across print and electronic channels, HP is offering HP Exstream LiveSite Connector and HP Claims Correspondence 2.0. HP Exstream LiveSite Connector combines solutions from Autonomy and HP Exstream to offer consistent, analytics-based, targeted customer communications. HP Claims Correspondence 2.0 reduces claims-settlement cycle time, provides faster correspondence processing and improves online awareness of claims status by uniting document content with people and processes.

Additional information about today’s announcements is available at www.hp.com/go/FallBizPrinting.

Xerox, McAfee Demo Industry-First Method for Protecting Print Devices, Data from Malware

LAS VEGAS — Today Xerox (NYSE: XRX) and McAfee revealed new protection against malware and viruses with the first networked multifunction printer to use McAfee Embedded Control software, a sophisticated filtering method that allows only approved programs to get through. And while malware threats are most often associated with personal computers, Xerox demonstrated to attendees at the McAfee FOCUS 12 security conference that any networked device is vulnerable.

“When a multifunction device receives data and processes it for printing, copying, scanning or faxing, it becomes susceptible to malware attacks – a susceptibility that often is overlooked,” saidTom Moore, vice president, Embedded Security, McAfee.

The Xerox and McAfee security solution simplifies processes for IT administrators with software embedded into a multifunction device’s controller (the machine’s main onboard computer) to provide an immediate alert and audit trail to track and investigate the time and origin of security threats – and take appropriate action. This eliminates the need for IT administrators to constantly stay on top of malware threats and proactively block them.

Climax Portable Machining and Welding Systems, a company looking to expand into global markets, is testing the technology. “As we expand we recognize that we will increase our exposure to viruses and malware,” said David Richardson, the company’s network administrator. “Adding McAfee technology to our Xerox equipment is critical to protecting our intellectual property as we integrate multiple sites and systems around the world.”

Survey data from Xerox and McAfee underscores the need for embedded security in networked printers and multifunction devices. In a poll of office workers taken earlier this year, more than half (54 percent) say they either don’t always follow their company’s IT security policies (33 percent) or aren’t even aware of the policies (21 percent) – leaving the security of customer credit card numbers, financial reports, and human resource and tax documents at risk. The survey also showed 39 percent of employees who copy, scan or print confidential information at work say they wonder (at least sometimes) whether the information on a networked device will remain secure.

“IT administrators don’t always consider printers as a threat – and with the Embedded Control software, we’ve put up even more defenses in our products so they don’t have to,” said Rick Dastin, president, Xerox Office and Solutions Business Group.

Xerox devices protected and managed by McAfee Embedded Control and McAfee Embedded Management software will become available in 2013, with products in the Xerox WorkCentre® and ColorQube® product lines.

For more information about the Xerox partnership with McAfee, along with videos and images, visit http://www.xerox.com/security.

Original article

HP Announces Support Tools Lineup for Its Windows 8-based Products

PALO ALTO, Calif., Oct. 22, 2012

HP today announced its lineup of support tools to help customers easily transition to new HP Windows 8-based products and upgrade existing HP devices to the new operating system.

By providing a variety of simple and easy-to-access support tools and resources, HP is helping ensure that customers can take full advantage of its Windows 8-based products.

“When it comes to setting up and upgrading their HP products, our customers expect fast, simple support offered in the way they work best, whether on product, online or via phone,” said Enrique Lores, vice president, Customer Support and Services, HP. “We are ready to deliver and help our customers optimize their HP Windows 8-based products. Our goal is to not only answer customer questions, but introduce them to everything that is possible with these new products.”

New on-product support tool designed with Windows 8 in mind

HP Support Assistant is an on-product tool that provides a one-stop shop for customers’ HP support needs. It offers easy self-help options, deploys automated updates and tracks issues so customers don’t have to identify them on their own. The latest version of HP Support Assistant will come preinstalled on all HP and Compaq computers sold featuring Windows 8. The new version of HP Support Assistant will be available in 36 languages. Additional information is available on the HP Support Assistant home page.

Multiple online support tools

HP has created a designated web support page to address questions and help solve issues for HP Windows 8-based devices at www.hp.com/go/win8support. The support page allows customers to easily upgrade their Windows 7-based HP PCs to Windows 8, obtain necessary drivers for their HP products and find out more about optimizing their Windows 8-based HP devices.

HP also has created multiple videos that instruct users on specific Windows 8 topics, such as navigating Windows with Touch, and helping customers quickly become more productive on their HP Windows 8-based products. Printing-related videos are available at www.youtube.com/hpprintersupport and computing-related videos are available at www.youtube.com/howto4u.

The best of both worlds—seamless HP printing experience for Windows 8

More than 450 HP printer drivers come preloaded on HP PCs featuring Windows 8. When connecting an HP printer, the new operating system will detect those drivers and load them automatically. For printers that require new drivers, The HP Printer Install Wizard will be available for a majority of consumer printers and will help customers select and install their print drivers, making sure they can print what matters most to them. The Printer Install Wizard will be available at the support landing pageon Oct. 26.

Windows 8 agent training and online Expert Day

All of HP’s 14,000+ commercial and consumer support agents around the world have been trained on HP Windows 8-based products, ensuring customers will get the help they need to effectively use or upgrade their devices.

In addition, HP will host a free Expert Day on the HP Consumer Support Forums on Nov. 28 to answer any questions specific to Windows 8 compatibility with HP laptops, PCs and printers.

Value-added services

HP SmartFriend Windows 8 Quick Start package provides basic training for HP customers to help them get the most out of their new Windows 8 system. This 45-minute tutorial gives customers one-on-one training with a live premium support technician on new HP notebooks or desktop PCs running Windows 8. It is delivered with phone support over a remote access connection on a customer’s Windows 8 system.

About HP

HP creates new possibilities for technology to have a meaningful impact on people, businesses, governments and society. The world’s largest technology company, HP brings together a portfolio that spans printing, personal computing, software, services and IT infrastructure to solve customer problems. More information about HP (NYSE: HPQ) is available at http://www.hp.com.

by computerextras News

Lexmark’s Massive Laser Printer Launch Features Smart MFPs

Lexmark may be getting out of the Inkjet printer business, but it’s revamping its laser-printer line in a big way. We’ve seen some large product launches before, but few compare in sheer volume to Lexmark’s introduction today of 42 laser printers and multifunction printers (MFPs).

Of them, 22—including 18 MFPs—are “smart” models, providing access through Lexmark’s e-task color touch-screen interface to workflow solutions integrated with the Perceptive Software portfolio.

One new product is the Lexmark CX510 color laser MFP. Designed for mid-size workgroups, the CX510 offers productivity solutions that, according to Lexmark, are typically present on larger devices. This device incorporates Lexmark’s calibration technology for the Pantone color system and Lexmark Named Color Replacement color matching.

The MX812 monochrome laser MFP features exceptionally fast processor, print, copy and scan speeds. According to Lexmark, it’s the first A4 monochrome laser MFP to print and copy up to 70 pages per minute. It’s geared to large enterprise workgroups who need a workhorse in the office. It provides professional finishing and comes with pre-loaded business solutions that are quickly accessible through a 10.2-inch color touch screen. According to Lexmark, the extra high-yield 45,000-page Unison toner cartridge is the largest in its class.

The Lexmark MX611 monochrome laser MFP features a 7-inch color touch screen, providing access to pre-installed workflow solutions that enhance business productivity by automating tasks. It’s a workhorse equipped to print up to 50 pages per minute. According to Lexmark, the MX611 is the only MFP in its class that offers an automatic inline stapler finishing option.

The MX410 monochrome laser MFP introduces solutions capabilities on an MFP below the $600 price point. The device provides productivity solutions via the 4.3-inch color touch screen. It prints up to 10,000 pages per month, up to 40 pages per minute.

Starting at $699, the Lexmark MS610 monochrome laser printer offers duplex and built-in productivity solutions. As the fastest compact A4 monochrome laser printer, according to Lexmark, it prints up to 16,000 pages per month, up to 50 pages per minute. The 4.3-inch color also enables users to manage jobs right at the device.

by computerextras News

Epson Expands Line of High Performance Business Printing Solutions with New WorkForce All-in-Ones

Designed for Home and Small Offices, the Printers Boast Fast Speeds, Cost-Saving Features and a Durable Product Design

Published: Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2012 – 12:09 am

LONG BEACH, Calif., Oct. 2, 2012 — /PRNewswire/ — Epson America, Inc., a leading provider of superior performing printing solutions, bolsters its robust line of business printers with four new WorkForce® all-in-one printers – the Epson® WorkForce WF-3540, WorkForce WF-3520, WorkForce WF-2540 and WorkForce WF-2530. Building on the success of Epson’s exclusive WorkForce line, the new models continue to deliver business printing at fast speeds and high-quality, professional-looking documents.  In addition, these models offer features for increased productivity and affordability including an improved user interface, multiple paper trays, automatic duplex printing/copying/scanning/faxing, and ink savings up to 40 percent less than color laser1.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20121002/LA84921)

The WorkForce all-in-ones also include built-in wireless2 and Ethernet networking to easily share among multiple computers, allowing for access to the latest in wireless technology, including the ability to print and scan from mobile devices such as an iPad®, iPhone®, tablet, or smartphone3. With Epson Connect™, users can conveniently print documents on-the-go, whether from their couch or across the globe.

“The Epson WorkForce WF-3540, WF-3520, WF-2540 and WF-2530 are durable, high performance all-in-ones that ensure small and home office businesses can run at full speed,” said Jennifer Liao, product manager, Consumer Ink Jets, Epson America.  “Understanding that productivity and cost are critical to these customers, Epson continues to innovate the WorkForce line to deliver affordable business printing with the world’s fastest two-sided print speeds4, robust paper handling, convenient mobile printing, and easy wireless connectivity in a sleek industrial design.”

Fast Speeds and High Performance Features in a Robust, Reliable Design The WorkForce WF-3540 and WF-3520 offer the world’s fastest two-sided print speeds4 – 15 ISO ppm (black) and 9.2 ISO ppm (color)† – and printing costs up to 40 percent lower than color laser printers1.  The two models also offer savings up to 50 percent on paper with automatic two-sided printing, scanning, copying and faxing, making them ideal for eco-conscious, high-volume small or home office use. The WorkForce WF-3540 and WF-3520 offer increased productivity features including high page capacity (500 sheets for the WF-3540; 250 for the WF-3520) and extra high capacity ink cartridges5 for minimal user intervention. Plus, the 30-sheet duplex ADF, sturdy front paper trays, and rear paper feed accommodate a variety of paper types and stock including envelopes, card stock and other specialty media for increased versatility in paper handling.

The models also offer an improved user interface with features that allow businesses to easily navigate their printer’s wide range of features. The WorkForce WF-3540’s intuitive 3.5″ touch LCD is equipped with new gesture navigation so users can easily “swipe” through the printer menu; and the WF-3520 features a 2.5″ LCD with smooth backlit touch panel for improved visibility.

Big Savings in a Sleek, Compact Design The Epson WorkForce WF-2540 and WF-2530 offer affordable, individual ink cartridges and an unprecedented space saving, compact design – the smallest in their class6 – making them ideal for space-constrained workspaces in both home office and work environments. These powerful all-in-ones save time with fast speeds – 9 ISO ppm (black) and 4.7 ISO ppm (color) and a 30-sheet ADF to quickly copy scan and fax stacks of originals. The models produce laser-quality text and crisp, vibrant color business documents with instant-dry inks that are water, smudge, and fade-resistant. The WorkForce WF-2540 features a 2.5″ LCD for easy navigation and comes with both wired and built-in wireless connectivity for easy setup and sharing on a network. The WorkForce WF-2530 includes PC-fax and OCR software to scan and save documents as text-searchable, editable PDFs7, all adding up to a full-featured business printer that produces high quality, professional-looking results.

Additional WorkForce all-in-one features include:

 

  • Epson Connect  –  Easily print from an iPad, iPhone, tablet, or smartphone
  • Google Cloud Print™ Ready
  • Print more with extra high capacity5, individual ink cartridges
  • Compatible with DURABrite® Ultra ink for instant-dry and smudge, fade and water resistant prints
  • More robust product design for 2x the durability (WF-3540 and WF-3520 only)
  • Convenient scanning features including OCR software7 to save documents as text-searchable, editable PDFs, and high-speed faxing
  • Built-in USB port to easily share files and transfer documents8
  • Uses up to 70 percent less energy than a laser printer when printing daily jobs9

 

Pricing and Availability The EPSON WorkForce WF-3540 ($199.99*), WorkForce WF-3520 ($149.99*), WorkForce WF-2540 ($129.99*), and WorkForce WF-2530 ($99.99*), will be available this fall through major computer, office and electronic superstores, mail order, and the Epson Store, www.epsonstore.com. For more information and availability, please visitepson.com/workforce.

About Epson Epson is a global imaging and innovation leader whose product lineup ranges from inkjet printers and 3LCD projectors to sensors and other microdevices. Dedicated to exceeding the vision of its customers worldwide, Epson delivers customer value based on compact, energy-saving, and high-precision technologies in markets spanning enterprise and the home to commerce and industry. Led by the Japan-based Seiko Epson Corporation, the Epson Group comprises more than 75,000 employees in 97 companies around the world, and is proud of its ongoing contributions to the global environment and the communities in which it operates. To learn more about Epson, please visit http://global.epson.com.

You may also connect with Epson America on Facebook (http://facebook.com/EpsonAmerica), Twitter (http://twitter.com/EpsonAmerica and http://twitter.com/EpsonEducation) and YouTube (http://youtube.com/EpsonTV).

Specifications are subject to change without notice. Epson, DURABrite and WorkForce are registered trademarks, Epson Exceed Your Vision is a registered logomark and Epson Connect is a trademark of Seiko Epson Corporation. All other product and brand names are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective companies. Epson disclaims any and all rights in these marks

*Estimated street price

† ISO ppm is based on ISO/IEC 24734. Black and color print speeds are determined in default, letter-size single-side mode, in accordance with ISO/IEC 24734. Black and color two-sided print speeds are determined in letter-size two-sided mode, in accordance with ISO/IEC 24734. Actual print times will vary based on system configuration, software and page complexity. Seewww.epson.com/printspeed for details, including complete ISO reports

1 Compared with the best-selling color laser all-in-ones priced at $450 or less, as of February 2012. Calculation based on continuous printing and prices of multi-pack ink cartridges. Actual savings will vary based on print task and user conditions

2 Wi-Fi CERTIFIEDTM; level of performance subject to the range of the router being used. Visitwww.wi-fi.org/files/11nbasics_glossary.pdf for more information. Ethernet not available on WorkForce WF-2430.

3 Most features require an internet connection to the printer as well as an Internet- and/or email-enabled device. See www.epson.com/connect for a list of EPSON Connect enabled printers and compatible devices and apps

 4 Applies to WorkForce WF-3540 and WF-3520; fastest in its class; printing black text in default, 2-sided mode, in accordance with ISO/IEC 24734. Compared to inkjet all-in-ones priced at $199 or less, as of December 2011, based on manufacturer’s published rated ISO speeds

5 Extra high capacity cartridges only available for the WorkForce WF-3540 and WF-3520

6 Smallest footprint among color inkjet all-in-ones priced at $129 or less, as of February 2012

7Some applications and/or functions may not be supported under Mac OS® X

8 Not available with the WorkForce WF-2530

9 Compared to best-selling color multifunction laser printers priced at $399 or less as of April 2012. Actual power savings will vary by product model and usage

SOURCE Epson America, Inc.

Read more here: http://www.sacbee.com/2012/10/02/4873035/epson-expands-line-of-high-performance.html#storylink=cpy

 

Kodak to quit making its desktop inkjet printers; 200 more to lose jobs

After spending untold hundreds of millions of dollars on creating a whole new line of business in desktop inkjet printers, Eastman Kodak Co. is pulling the plug on the printers themselves.

The struggling printing and imaging company on Friday said that it would shift its focus in 2013 on ink sales to the printers it has already sold and end selling the printers themselves. The company has long talked about the profits in its desktop inkjet printers being in the consumables, such as the ink, and according to the company getting out of the printer business itself “will significantly improve cash flow in the U.S. beginning in the first half of 2013.”

The inks used in Kodak’s desktop inkjet printers are manufactured at Eastman Business Park.

The shut down of the printer line points to a major and abrupt shift in Kodak’s business plans. In recent years, Kodak has continually pointed to desktop inkjet printing — along with commercial printing, packaging printing and printer workflow software — as the four legs that would be its foundation in a post-film, digital world. As recently as August, Kodak plans after bankruptcy included desktop inkjet printing as one of its anchors.

Interactive: Kodak Park through the years
Interactive: Kodak timeline

But Kodak’s move comes as the desktop printer market overall has been suffering from slipping sales.

Along with the announcement about the printer business change, Kodak said Friday it was asking U.S. Bankruptcy Court for more time to put together a Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization plan. Such plans — which ultimately have to be approved by the federal bankruptcy court — spell out how a bankrupt company will operate after bankruptcy and what steps it will take to make its creditors as whole as possible.

According to Kodak, it is seeking a Feb. 28 deadline. That raises the likelihood that Kodak’s much-repeated intention to get out of Chapter 11 early in 2013 won’t happen and that such an emergence — if it happens — would come sometime in the second or third quarter of the year.

Since filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in January, Kodak has made a number of huge sweeping changes to its business to raise money and cut costs, from shutting down its digital camera business and selling such operations as its online Kodak Gallery. The company currently has a variety of other business lines up for sale, including document scanners and still camera film. It has laid off 2,700 people worldwide so far this year, and said Friday it plans to lay off another 1,200 — 200 more than previously announced.

And, Kodak said Friday, it is in negotiations to find “a fair, equitable and permanent resolution of Kodak’s U.S. retiree benefit liability, which amounts to approximately $1.2 billion.”

MDANEMAN@DemocratandChronicle.com
http://twitter/mdaneman

original article
by computerextras News

HP Introduces Entry-level, Web-connected Solutions for Large-format Printing from Virtually Anywhere

HP today unveiled the industry’s first web-connected, entry-levelprinting solutions for architecture, engineering and construction (AEC)students and professionals, making in-house, large-format printing accessible to more users.

Delivering large-format printing through the cloud from virtually anywhere,(1) the new HP Designjet T120 and T520 ePrinter series provide on-the-go professionals with simple and affordable printing solutions. The compact, 24-inch HP Designjet T120 ePrinter series is ideal for students and freelancers, while the 24- and 36-inch HP Designjet T520 ePrinter series is designed for small AEC teams in need of fast, professional printing.

HP also announced the second generation of its free web service for AEC professionals, HP Designjet ePrint & Share, which makes it easy to access and print large-format documents using an iOS or Android tablet or smartphone, a laptop or ePrinter touch screen.(1,2)

“The economic environment has increased the number of freelancers and small studios, shortened project turnaround times and required AEC workers to be highly mobile, spending more than 50 percent of their time out of the office,” said Santiago Morera, vice president and general manager, Large-format Printing Business, HP. “The expanded HP Designjet portfolio helps our customers stay connected where the job takes them and allows first-time, large-format buyers to easily and affordably bring their printing needs in house.”

Solutions bring large-format printing in house for customers like ZELLNERPLUS

The smallest printer in its class, with a footprint of only 38.9 inches (987 mm), the HP Designjet T120 ePrinter offers the benefits of two printers in one with a built-in B+/A3 tray and convenient front-loading roll. The printer’s intuitive, full-color touch screen simplifies in-house printing and navigation for those new to large format. HP inks produce high-quality output with rich colors and sharp lines reaching 0.0016 inch (0.04 mm) minimum line width.

Available in 24- or 36-inch models, the HP Designjet T520 ePrinter improves processing power and offers twice the speed and resolution of its predecessor.(3) With 1 GB RAM and HP-GL/2 technology, the HP Designjet T520 ePrinter operates at up to 35 seconds per D/A1 print. Original HP inks and long-life printheads achieve accurate lines reaching 0.0008 inch (0.02 mm) minimum line width and sharp details with up to 2,400 dots per inch (dpi) resolution for fast, professional results in house.

The HP Designjet T120 and T520 ePrinters are the only large-format printers available with built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, so users can install the printer where it is most convenient.(4) True print previews from the new HP Designjet driver ensure accurate prints on the first try, resulting in time and cost savings when printing from a computer.

“The new HP Designjet printing technology gives us confidence that when we need to produce high-quality drawings in time for a meeting, we can handle the job—it takes a lot of stress out of my work schedule,” said Peter Zellner, principal at ZELLNERPLUS, an HP Designjet T520 ePrinter beta customer. “Now that I’ve seen how much the HP Designjet T520 ePrinter improves our daily design and build process, I can’t imagine working without it.”

HP Designjet ePrint & Share makes remote printing easier than ever

The HP Designjet ePrinter portfolio features mobile access and printing of large-format plans using HP Designjet ePrint & Share.(1) Available through a desktop web browser, mobile application or the touch screen of web-connected HP Designjet printers,(2) the latest version of HP Designjet ePrint & Share offers:

  • The ability to email projects to an HP Designjet ePrinter for printing.(1) Users simply attach a PDF or other print-ready file to an email and send it to the ePrinter’s dedicated address.
  • Automatic, secure online print history through the new HP Designjet driver. With the online print history, users have access to their latest drawings and the ability to zoom in and reprint an exact copy in just few clicks.(1)
  • Convenient file sharing using an automatically generated hyperlink for one-click access to any file in the print history. (1)
  • Access to all FTP sites in one place. Users can access multiple FTP sites in one interface with one login, making it easy to view and print files when and where needed.(1)

“The nature of our business requires staff to be out of town or at other locations, working off tablets to get instant feedback from customers,” said Ma Wenjie, designer at E+D International, an HP Designjet T520 ePrinter beta customer. “Through the use of HP Designjet ePrint & Share, we can review these changes and make timely modifications with the client, while our remote workers can send their comments to our in-house printer, greatly improving efficiency.”

Pricing and availability(5)

  • The HP Designjet T120 ePrinter series is expected to be available worldwide on Sept. 24 for an estimated retail price of $1,000.
  • The HP Designjet T520 ePrinter series, available in 24- and 36-inch models, is expected to be available worldwide on Sept. 24 for estimated prices of $1,800 and $2,500, respectively.
  • HP Designjet ePrint & Share is available at no additional cost for HP Designjet customers by creating an account at www.hp.com/go/eprintandshare. The mobile application is available through Google Play and Apple’s App Store.

More information about the latest additions to the HP Designjet portfolio is available atwww.hp.com/go/DesignjetFall2012 and  www.hp.com/go/designjet. Videos and updates of the new products are available on Facebook at www.facebook.com/HPdesigners, on Twitter attwitter.com/hpgraphicarts and on YouTube at www.youtube.com/hpgraphicarts.

by computerextras News

Canon Introduces Next-Generation imageRUNNER ADVANCE; Commentary by Cary Sherburne

Press release from the issuing company

New Platform at the Core of Digital Business Communications Where Imaging Technology, Cloud Connectivity and Mobile Solutions Seamlessly Converge

Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced the next-generation imageRUNNER ADVANCE Series, a platform of multifunction office systems designed to transform workflow from a series of individual processes to a continuous, integrated flow of shared information. The new platform features a variety of enhancements to the design, workflow, control, performance and environmentally-conscious functionality of each model. Providing a solution that converges existing office systems and services rather than simply connecting them, this series of imageRUNNER ADVANCE streamlines business workflows by incorporating innovative cloud and mobile solutions, extensive security measures and powerful new software offerings.

“We are a part of an incredible evolution of the workforce as organizations are now implementing more efficient and secure business processes than ever before,” said Sam Yoshida, vice president and general manager, Marketing, Business Imaging Solutions Group, Canon U.S.A. “The imageRUNNER ADVANCE platform will serve as a business catalyst and central communications hub that merges a variety of mobile and cloud technologies to help facilitate seamless, optimized workflows.”

Advanced Design
The next-generation imageRUNNER ADVANCE models build upon the user-centric design of the previous generation, already rated highest in ease-of-use in the MFP industry by Industry Analysts, Inc.1 With a customizable and streamlined display, users have the option to feature a logo or special graphics in the wallpaper background of the main menu of the user interface and tailor the quick menu to meet specific departmental or user needs. In addition, each device has the ability to act as a dynamic, personalized communications hub that streamlines business processes with document-driven workflow.

Advanced Workflow
At the forefront of the effort to optimize business processes, Canon will offer MEAP-Web to allow applications to be developed via web services with integration on the device through the imageRUNNER ADVANCE Web Access software. With the MEAP-Web capability as a part of the next generation imageRUNNER ADVANCE, this platform offers the capability of building an integrated solution to back-end enterprise applications such as ERP, CRM, content management systems and more. The variety and strength of this platform will allow partners and integrators to develop powerful tools that propel businesses forward toward success.

In today’s increasingly mobile world, the next generation imageRUNNER ADVANCE models are equipped to take advantage of several mobile and cloud-based solutions that enable customers to safely print and scan from a variety of devices and locations. Customizable for different needs and price points, Canon offers the following solutions:

  • Cloud Portal for imageRUNNER ADVANCE, a cloud-based print and scan solution that provides direct connection from Canon MFPs to Google Docs and Microsoft SharePoint Online
  • Direct Print and Scan for Mobile, a peer-to-peer solution that provides print and scan functionality via direct communication between iOS and Blackberry mobile devices and Canon MFPs
  • EFI PrintMe, a cloud-based mobile print solution that enables printing from any email-enabled mobile device to Canon MFPs
  • uniFLOW, a complete, server-based output management solution that includes mobile printing and scanning
  • Canon Mobile Printing, a mobile application available later this year that will enable users in homes and offices of all sizes to send print jobs directly from their iPhone and iPad to a compatible Canon output device

With drag-and-drop simplicity, the imageRUNNER ADVANCE Desktop Quick Printing Tool allows users to combine documents, print, fax and convert files to PDF format without opening the native application.

Advanced Control
As security and control become increasingly important, Canon provides the tools to easily configure a system, migrate settings, safeguard data and track resources with the next-generation imageRUNNER ADVANCE systems. With Canon’s server-less Advanced Anywhere-Print (AA-Print) solution that includes a new login application called Universal Login Manager, users can print to a connected Canon device and retrieve their documents after authentication at any Canon device on their network, and IT administrators can track usage and enforce printing control when needed. Each model is also equipped with a tamper-resistant security chip, which protects passwords and encryption keys. In addition, the standard HDD Data Erase and HDD Lock features help protect information even after the hard drive is removed.

Canon will also offer cloud-based control solutions through its Managed Document Services (MDS) Business Infrastructure. To be launched in early 2013, Canon Business Imaging Online (CBIO) will not only offer device functionality extensions via the cloud for scanning, mobile solutions and customized applications, but also provide a cloud-based platform for implementing additional control solutions such as managing, configuring and monitoring devices remotely for MDS engagements. This new infrastructure will not only assist Canon’s channels in supporting customer demands for MDS engagements, but also provide a global framework to support the needs of global customers in any region or country.

Advanced Performance
The new imageRUNNER ADVANCE platform builds upon the reliability of the first-generation lineup and provides improved copy quality along with faster output. This quality is enhanced by Canon’s state-of-the-art imaging technology and the integration of a built-in ZIMA chip that supports delivery of crisp, clear copies. In addition, faster and more consistent processing speed is delivered through Canon’s advanced imageCHIP architecture that features two dedicated processors that work together to accomplish multiple tasks simultaneously.

Advanced Responsibility
Users will benefit from energy-saving and environmentally conscious features. The new models have a low Typical Energy Consumption (TEC) value and consume very little energy during sleep mode. Organizations can control their resources through intelligent device management solutions that optimize the use of toner and paper. In addition, the combination of fusing technologies and low melting point toner helps lower overall energy consumption.

Availability
The next-generation imageRUNNER ADVANCE models will become available in the fourth quarter of 2012, with additional models added to the line-up in 2013. First to be introduced will be the imageRUNNER ADVANCE C5255/C5250/C5240/C5235 color multifunction systems designed for small- to mid-volume workgroups, followed by the imageRUNNER ADVANCE 6275/6265/6255 black-and-white systems designed for high volume office environments and the imageRUNNER ADVANCE 8205/8295/8285 black-and-white light production systems. Specifications and pricing details will be announced when those systems become available.

More information on Canon’s next generation imageRUNNER ADVANCE platform can be found at www.usa.canon.com/SimplyAdvanced 

Commentary by Cary Sherburne

We’ll probably never get to the paperless office, but an increasing number of companies are looking for ways to seamlessly integrate paper and digital workflows. They want information to be able to be acted upon, stored, categorized in document management systems, emailed, and placed into other workflows regardless of whether it enters the enterprise in paper or digital form, and with as little human intervention as possible.

This announcement from Canon gives these enterprises more to work with as they strive to streamline workflow, taking time, cost and the potential for error out of a wide range of business processes.

I had the opportunity to speak with Dennis Amorosano, Sr. Director, Solutions Marketing & Business Support at Canon USA, both as a follow-up to my discussion with him last July and specifically about this announcement.

Amorosano said, “Customers anticipate leveraging investments in MFPs to tie more directly into business application workflow. They are beginning to look at the MFP as a communications hub within the enterprise. As a result, from a development perspective, we have invested in enhancing our technology to more readily meet the need to connect to specific office workflows.”

Although there have been solutions around for some time that can make at least some of this happen, one issue has been usability-or the lack of it.  Canon claims to have improved ease of use with this release by “leaps.” Amorosano adds, “As opposed to what might be considered an arm’s length connection to ERP and CRM systems, we can now tie in tightly. Technology is only as good as how easy it is for users to take advantage of it.”

With this release, Canon has also added extra usability from the desktop as well as more mobility and increased capability to personalize operations and menus to companies, departments, functions and even individual users. Amorosano says, “In addition to becoming part of the workflow, and combined with mobile and cloud elements, the MFP now becomes a catalyst for system convergence.  It is a middleware platform that allows for better communication with enterprise applications and builds in a document workflow.”

It’s what we used to call, in the “old days,” an “information onramp.”

Another cool feature is AA PRINT which offers secure printing without the need for a server.  An end user can print to an ADVANCE box and walk up to any MEAP-enabled printer/copier on the network to securely print and retrieve documents.

Earlier this year, Canon introduced a cloud-based application with tools that help in the performance of Managed Document Services (MDS) engagements, and Amorosano reports that that solution, MDS Portal, will be fully rolled out in 2013.  Not only will it monitor Canon devices, but it will also allow MDS operators to monitor third-party devices as well.  They will be able to fully understand usage, see error reporting, configure a fleet of devices and more, all from a cloud interface.

By the end of 2012, Canon will have a total of four mobile print solutions as well as cloud print-and-scan and a SOHO app-based solution for iPhones (Android is expected to be added shortly following launch, and Windows phone support will be added as and when demand justifies).

From an environmental perspective, this new family of imageRUNNER ADVANCE color and black & white devices will be one of the first to feature U.S. EPA EPEAT certification.  To achieve this prestigious certification, the EPA must evaluate not only the device itself, but also look at how it is manufactured and how it can be recycled at end of life.

I asked Amorosano how he thought this continuing evolution of in-house capability was likely to affect the small commercial printer, who might see volumes decline as companies are able to keep more volume in-house. His response:

“From a manufacturer’s perspective, we need to capture the page volume wherever those pages are going to be created. That being said, there is a discernible difference in image quality between office and production class devices.  Most commercial printers will be looking for press-like image quality that can be offered by products such as the imagePRESS family and Océ sheet-fed and continuous feed presses. The applications that have the most risk of moving away are more office-oriented, such as printing of PowerPoint presentations and the like. The truth is, printers need to transform their businesses.  If they are only providing basic printing output services, they are in trouble.  If they haven’t already made investments in things like variable data, marketing services, packaging, etc., they are probably a little late at this point.  It is just the nature of the market at this stage.”

original article

EPSON Launches Win & Print Sweepstakes With Weekly Winners

LONG BEACH, Calif., Sept. 19, 2012 /PRNewswire/ – Epson America, Inc. today announced the EPSON® Win & Print Sweepstakes, an exciting online chance to win either an EPSON Artisan® or WorkForce® all-in-one printer each week through Oct. 15, 2012.

Starting today, visitors to the EPSON Win & Print Sweepstakes page can enter for a chance to win one of four premium EPSON all-in-one home or office printers, including the WorkForce 645, WorkForce 845, Artisan 730 and Artisan 837. Participants are allowed to enter once during the duration of the contest, but will be carried over to each week’s drawing if they are not selected as winners.

“Epson is always looking for fun and interactive ways to engage our online audience, and the Win & Print Sweepstakes is just one of the ways we’re showing consumers how much we appreciate their support,” said Scott Sturcke, senior manager, online marketing, Epson America, Inc. “Offering our award-winning WorkForce and Artisan all-in-ones for the Win & Print Sweepstakes is our way of saying thank you to the community that has helped distinguish Epson as a leader in the printer industry.”

About Epson
Epson is a global imaging and innovation leader whose product lineup ranges from inkjet printers and 3LCD projectors to sensors and other microdevices. Dedicated to exceeding the vision of its customers worldwide, Epson delivers customer value based on compact, energy-saving, and high-precision technologies in markets spanning enterprise and the home to commerce and industry. Led by the Japan-based Seiko Epson Corporation, the Epson Group comprises more than 75,000 employees in 97 companies around the world, and is proud of its ongoing contributions to the global environment and the communities in which it operates. To learn more about Epson, please visit http://global.epson.com.

No purchase necessary. A purchase will not increase your chances of winning. Sweepstakes starts 09/18/2012 and ends 10/16/2012. Sweepstakes open to individuals who are 18 years of age or older as of 09/18/2012 (except in Alabama and Nebraska, where you must be 19 years of age or older to enter) and a legal U.S. resident of one of the 50 United States or D.C. Void where prohibited. Subject to Official Rules. Sponsored by Epson America, Inc., 3840 Kilroy Airport Way, Long Beach, CA 90806. Any questions, comments or complaints about this Sweepstakes should be directed to Sponsor.

You may also connect with Epson America on Facebook (http://facebook.com/EpsonAmerica), Twitter (http://twitter.com/EpsonAmerica andhttp://twitter.com/EpsonEducation) and YouTube (http://youtube.com/EpsonTV).

Specifications are subject to change without notice. EPSON, WorkForce and Artisan are registered trademarks, and EPSON Exceed Your Vision is a registered logomark of Seiko Epson Corporation. All other product and brand names are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective companies. Epson disclaims any and all rights in these marks.

SOURCE Epson America, Inc.

original article
by computerextras News

Purdue University Professor Fixes Major Flaw In 3D Printing

3D printing has come a long way since its humble roots over 20 years ago. The technology has become affordable and people are starting to make some really awesome objects with the technology. Unfortunately, it’s still hampered by a few setbacks. A major flaw is that some objects just don’t have the strength to stay together.

Purdue University professor Bedrich Benes knows how fragile some 3D printed objects can be. He claims to have a “zoo” of broken 3D printed objects strewn about his office. His newest project aims to create new 3D printing software that can find points of stress in an object before it heads to the 3D printer. The software is being co-developed by Benes and Adobe’s Advanced Technology Labs.

The new software isn’t only about making 3D printed structures stronger. Benes says that his software can cut down on weight and cost by 80 percent. It does, however, have one caveat – precision. The software’s main focus is structural stability. Benes says that 3D printing can sacrifice precision in the name of stability. Your 3D printed object can have a precise shape, but it’s still worthless if it falls apart.

For now, the software can only detect grip points on an object and strengthen those parts. I can see this software evolving in the future alongside other 3D printing projects, like housing. It could detect stress points on a house and fix them in the planning stages before the construction begins.

3D printing is becoming more prominent in all of our lives. We need to have software like this to make sure things don’t break where we need them most. A small plastic figurine is fine if it breaks, but it would be a problem if a 3D printed satellite were to break.

original article
  • Toner Talk with Trudy, Part 3 – Printers and Their Ink (webpronews.com)
by computerextras News