Priceless InkJet Cartridges & Laser Toner Cartridges

Epson Introduces Next Generation 64-Inch Solvent Printer

2012-02-20T08:12:00.004-08:00

Epson America have introduced its next generation 64-inch solvent printer – the EPSON® SureColor™ S30670. Incorporating Epson's latest technological breakthroughs, the SureColor S30670 is the first ever solvent-based printer to use the EPSON MicroPiezo® TFP® print head, bringing a new level of quality, performance and value to the signage, vehicle graphics and fine art markets.

"Our first generation solvent printer – the EPSON Stylus® Pro GS6000 – has been a game changer in the signage market over the last four years, bringing advanced image quality and an ink technology with less impact on the environment to the industry to open up a new range of applications for solvent printing," said Reed Hecht, product manager, Professional Imaging, Epson America, Inc. "The new SureColor S30670 offers advancements in print head and ink technology to deliver higher quality printing, faster and better, at an extreme overall value."

The SureColor S30670 utilizes an entirely new print engine featuring Epson's MicroPiezo TFP print head to deliver droplet sizes as small as 4.2 picoliters and double the nozzle density of Epson's previous solvent printer for extremely fast print speeds. The SureColor S30670 is a four-color solvent printer (CMYK) leveraging new EPSON UltraChrome® GS2 solvent-based ink technology. Developed exclusively by Epson, UltraChrome GS2 includes a newly formulated yellow ink that can produce prints with up to three years of outdoor durability without lamination. In addition, these new inks deliver virtually odorless printing without the need for external dryers, special ventilation or air purification systems, and do not contain Nickel (Ni) compounds, helping to reduce impact on the environment and potential harm to employees.

EPSON UltraChrome® GS2
Designed from the ground up, the SureColor S30670 introduces several new convenient features that help automate previously time-consuming processes, such as nozzle checks, media feed adjustments and media tensioning, and complicated print head alignments. Additional features include:
* MicroPiezo TFP Print Head: One-inch wide, high performance print head with 720 nozzles per color capable of handling four separate ink channels; low vibration meniscus control provides highly accurate dot shape and placement and ink repelling coating dramatically reduces nozzle clogging.
* Fast Print Speeds: Capable of up to 619 square feet per hour in draft mode with a recommended production speed of 205 square feet per hour for normal signage production.
* Take in and Take-Up Reel System: Efficient take-up reel for unattended production of large print runs supporting both wind-in or wind-out; standard motorized heavy roll support system in the rear will support up to a 90 pound roll; optional high-capacity roll support available for heavy rolls up to 150 pounds.
* Roll Media Loading: All new spindle-less design with manual EPSON LiftAssist allows for easy loading and unloading of heavy roll media.
* High-Capacity Ink System: Individual ink cartridges up to 700 ml enable users to avoid production downtimes and maximize profitability.
* Control Panel: New full color LCD panel provides easy access to menu items and printer controls.
* Media Versatility: Given the unique form of solvent ink, EPSON UltraChrome GS2 works on virtually all standard coated or uncoated solvent media, including adhesive based vinyl and sign banner media; also prints on canvas media to produce fine art print.

Pricing, Support and Availability
The EPSON SureColor S30670 will be available in April through authorized Epson Professional Imaging resellers for a list price of $16,995. The EPSON SureColor S30670 offers a standard EPSON Preferred(SM) Limited Warranty, a one-year program that includes toll-free advanced telephone access Monday through Friday and usually next business-day on-site service in the unlikely event of any hardware failure. Epson Preferred Plus service plans are available that cover both the hardware and software for up to two additional years. For additional information, visit www.proimaging.epson.com.

The new SureColor S30670 will be shown at Graphics of the Americas from March 1-3 in Miami, Fla. (booth #377) and at the International Sign Expo from March 22-24 in Orlando, Fla. (booth #1547).

Visit our web store for genuine and replacement Epson inkjet cartridges.

Original source: Epson Introduces Next Generation 64-Inch Solvent Printer - SureColor S30670

Print your own Valentine's Day greeting cards!

2012-02-14T01:28:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

Thank You for your loyal support and all the new customers which you have referred to Priceless Ink & Toner over the years.

We also want to wish everyone a Very Special Valentine’s Day because it is a day that fills our Nation with a certain feeling of love for one another.

We have a special present for you! You can download and print your own Valentine’s Day Card and send it to your special one!

We offer our clients no Holiday Gimmicks or "Love Coupons", we offer our clients a real 20% discount everyday of the year when they select from our catalog of "environmentally friendly" alternative products.

Simply open a free online Personal Page and the discounts are automatically applied during the Checkout process.

We offer "Free Shipping" to every client that has opened a Personal Page to store their favorite products and take advantage of direct mobile notification and order confirmation.

Our message today is simply we love to serve our wonderful "Priceless Customers" and will always do what is right to make their online shopping experience secure and completely worry free.

Yes, our Staff Loves to Serve you!

Visit our 2012 Valentine's Day free cards!

Please share them with your friends!

Lexmark introduces new OfficeEdge series

2012-02-06T05:34:00.000-08:00

Bringing high-quality color printing and workgroup reliability to a larger base of business customers, Lexmark International, Inc. introduced the new robust, high-performing OfficeEdge Series of multifunction products (MFPs). These MFPs are built upon Lexmark’s new business inkjet platform and engineered with enterprise-caliber components to deliver the long-lasting, reliable performance of a laser with the color quality and affordability of an inkjet. A workhorse for small workgroups within the enterprise and small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs), Lexmark’s OfficeEdge Series includes two new models equipped with business-class features and laser-quality color printing at a 50 percent lower cost.

The Lexmark OfficeEdge Series integrates seamlessly into most business IT environments, making them enterprise friendly for IT administrators tasked with implementing and overseeing the MFPs. Support for PCL and PostScript through the Lexmark Universal Print Driver increases enterprise compatibility, and monitoring and administering multiple devices from a central location are also simplified through the Embedded Web Server and award-winning fleet management tool Markvision Enterprise.

The Lexmark Office Edge Pro5500 and OfficeEdge Pro4000 color MFPs are built for fast, professional, heavy-duty printing and scanning. The new additions to Lexmark’s lineup boast faster print speeds than most similarly priced color laser MFPs, up to 21 pages per minute (ppm) in black and 14 ppm in color, and the fastest time to first page compared to laser devices in its class means users spend less time waiting for a print job to complete.

Additionally, the Lexmark OfficeEdge Pro5500 is highlighted by a single pass, duplex, automatic document feeder (ADF) with a capacity of up to 50 sheets to save users time by simultaneously scanning both sides of documents, while accommodating a variety of paper sizes up to 8.5 inches x 14 inches, a best-in-class feature.

The impressive print quality makes a lasting impression with vivid colors, dark black text and higher resistance to water and smearing, made possible by Lexmark’s new pigment-based Vizix Pro ink formula. Utilized in both the standard and high-yield OfficeEdge Series ink cartridges, Vizix Pro produces color output with the crisp text quality of a laser printer and the brilliant color of an inkjet, allowing businesses to do more in-house printing and reduce costs. Made from plastic that contains post-consumer recycled content, the Lexmark OfficeEdge Series ink cartridges are eligible for the Lexmark Cartridge Collection Program (LCCP), which offers free, easy return options to recycle empty cartridges.

Workflow Solutions
The intuitive 4.3-inch color touch screen on the Lexmark OfficeEdge Pro5500 provides an easy to navigate menu and access to Lexmark’s productivity-enhancing SmartSolutions, downloadable software applications designed to help businesses save time and money by streamlining everyday tasks and common workflows. For even greater efficiency, Lexmark is introducing 12 new Multifunction Workflows that execute multiple tasks through the simple press of a button, such as "E-Mail & Save to Network" and "Copy, E-mail & Save to Computer". The new multifunction workflows for the Lexmark OfficeEdge Series will be available this quarter via Lexmark’s SmartSolutions site.

Mobility
Tablets, smartphones and cloud-based technology are changing the way SMBs and enterprises manage their day-to-day activities. For those on the go, moving between locations requires a greater need to access and produce documents anytime, anywhere with ease. Lexmark’s OfficeEdge Series is compatible with the Lexmark Mobile Printing App, which is designed for Android and Apple iOS smartphones and tablets, allowing users to print on demand from virtually anywhere.

Visit our web store for Lexmark inkjet cartridges and Lexmark laser toner cartridges.

Original source: Lexmark’s new OfficeEdge Series boosts productivity for bustling businesses, busy workgroups

The Replicator - Next-Generation Personal 3D Printer

2012-01-30T08:08:00.001-08:00

MakerBot Industries unveiled its next-generation personal 3D printer, the Replicator, which comes fully assembled, and features a build area that’s twice the size of its predecessor, the Thing-O-Matic, so that it can build larger 3D objects (the Replicator’s build area is about the size of a loaf bread or 300 cubic inches). At pricing of $1,749.00, the Replicator is also cheaper than the Thing-O-Matic. Two configurations of the Replicator are available – one for producing an object consisting of a single color, the other for producing two-colored objects.

Also new is an LCD panel and video-game-style control pad. The LCD screen provides build statistics and monitoring information, and full control of the printer without having to use a PC. The Replicator uses an additive printing process – it heats and melts ABS plastic (the same material used to make Lego blocks) to print 3D objects layer-by-layer. It’s connected directly to the PC via USB port, and is compatible with Microsoft Windows, Apple OS X, and Linux systems. There’s also an SD Card slot, so users can download model plans and begin builds directly from the control pad without having to use a PC.

3D printing has been called the next billion-dollar industry, with analysts such as ABI Research predicting that it will reach $782.6 million by 2013. To date, it’s primarily used in manufacturing by companies such as Stratasys, Inc., but MakerBot’s Thing-O-Matic and the new Replicator are now within range of many consumers, and in the future 3D printers will probably be even more affordable. Orders currently take six weeks to fulfill.

Visit our online store for 2D inkjet printer cartridges & laser printer cartridges.

Original source: MakerBot Unveils Next-Generation Personal 3D Printer: The Replicator

Epson Takes Wide Format Photo Printing to the Next Level

2012-01-25T08:02:00.000-08:00

Epson America, Inc., a leading provider of superior performing desktop printing solutions, introduced the Epson Artisan® 1430 wide-format printer. Offering brilliant, Ultra Hi-Definition prints as large as 13”x 19”, convenient wireless networking and mobile printing, the Artisan 1430 enables photo enthusiasts and professionals alike to complete a wide range of creative and professional projects.

The Artisan 1430 delivers professional quality photos by leveraging Epson’s exclusive Advanced MicroPiezo® print head with DX5™ technology for accurate ink placement, smooth gradations and amazing skin tones. The Artisan 1430 offers Wi-Fi CERTIFIEDTM n wireless networking to easily share the printer with anyone on the network – as well as Epson iPrint app – to print and share from a smartphone, iPhone®, tablet or other device. With superior media handling capabilities to create gallery-quality prints on a host of popular borderless sizes – including 4”x6”, 13”x19” and 12”x12” – and Adobe® Photoshop® Elements bonus software, the printer is ideal for a range of projects – from brochures and posters to photo enlargements and personalized CDs/DVDs.

“The Artisan 1430 was designed with the creative professional and photo enthusiast in mind, delivering superior photo quality, unprecedented media handling capabilities, and convenient wireless connectivity that continue to set the Artisan line apart from the competition,” said Gregg Brunnick, group product manager, Epson America, Inc. “Consumers will be amazed at the level of performance and results they are able to achieve with the all new Artisan 1430 wide-format printer.”

Additional High-Performance Epson Artisan 1430 Features:
* Ultra Hi-Definition photos that are smudge, scratch and water resistant
* PC-free printing and sharing documents and photos from a smartphone, iPhone®, tablet or other mobile devices with Epson iPrint
* Photos last up to 200 years in storage and up to 98 years on display under glass
* Customized photo enlargements, brochures, posters and scrapbook pages
* Professional-looking ink jet printable CDs/DVDs
* Image enhancement tools for automatic color and lighting correction and red eye removal
* Range of eco features and environmental qualifications including, ENERGY STAR® and RoHS compliance, and is designed to be recycled

Pricing and Availability
The Epson Artisan 1430 ($299.99) will be available in February through major computer, office and electronic superstores, a variety of retail stores nationwide and Epson’s retail site.

Visit our online store for Epson Inkjet Cartridges

Original source: New Epson Artisan 1430 Takes Wide Format Photo Printing to the Next Level of Performance with Wireless Connectivity

Strong Growth Projected for Wide-Format UV-Curable Inkjet Market

2012-01-23T05:24:00.000-08:00

The wide format UV-curable inkjet market is the smallest, yet the most competitive product segment within the wide format digital printing industry, reports InfoTrends. The global market for wide format UV-curable inkjet printers and supplies is expected to grow from $1.42 billion in 2010 to $3.04 billion in 2015 for a five-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.4 percent.

“We’re finding that dozens of global and regional competitors in the wide format UV-curable inkjet hardware market are being drawn to this segment based on high production volumes and attractive hardware profit margins,” commented Tim Greene, director of InfoTrends Wide Format Service.

A tremendous interest in UV-curable inkjet as a production technology comes from several key aspects of the technology that support print service providers (PSPs) in meeting customer needs:
* Faster production speed and the elimination of “dry time”
* Lower operating costs due to higher ink efficiency
* Improved performance on a wide variety of media products including flexible media
* Better environmental properties of UV-curable inkjet especially vs. solvent inkjet

The 2011 Wide Format UV-curable Inkjet & Supplies Market Forecast reveals that UV-curable technology is expected to play an important role in a recentralization of the wide format digital graphics market. In the early stages, a key to success has been providing reliable technology that delivered high-quality print production.

InfoTrends’ research indicates the UV-curable market is moving to a new stage where the solutions that surround the printer are increasingly important. The tools that are available that enable automated production and meaningful operational metrics are going to become increasingly important as commercial printers and other “high-end” operators adopt wide format UV-curable printers. Wide format UV-curable printing system providers that understand this, and develop or partner to create solutions packages, will have the greatest selling opportunities.

The report is available immediately for purchase. For more information visit InfoTrends’ online store or contact Stephanie Tose at +1 781 616 2103 or email stephanie_tose@infotrends.com.

Visit our online store for wide format printer ink cartridges and supplies

Original source: Strong Growth Projected for Wide-Format UV-Curable Inkjet Market

Canon Launches Next-Generation uniFlow

2012-01-18T05:19:00.000-08:00

Canon U.S.A. has released the next generation of its uniFlow print-management software, version 5.1, which adds printing from mobile devices, enhanced scanning, and an improved universal print driver. uniFlow server-based software, which supports Canon and third-party devices, is Canon’s print-management software that enables administrators to track users’ printing (as well as Canon MFPs’ copy, scan, and fax), determine document output costs and generate reports, alert IT to status conditions such as low toner, and even monitor their print fleet’s environmental impact.

uniFlow also provides user authentication (via PIN, card, user name and password, etc.), and rules-based printing, the latter of which enables administrators to automatically route print jobs to the most cost-effective printers or force all e-mail messages to be printed in black-and-white, not color. It can automatically convert documents attached to e-mails for scan scan to e-mail into text-editable format.

uniFlow provides detailed reports so that, for instance, administrators can see which users are printing in color.

Printing from Internet-Enabled Mobile Devices
Version 5.1 enables users to print from Internet-enabled mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets, including Apple iOS devices, without downloading print drivers or software, via several methods: by submitting the job via e-mail, and uploading a job via Web browser. Users can also print using an Internet-enabled driver. uniFlow’s secure print release is also supported for mobile users, so that print jobs are held until the user releases them for printing via PIN or smart card at the device. There’s also a uniFlow native app for iOS iPod, iPhone and iPad devices. The app enables the mobile device to identify the printer, for example by a QR code, select a print job from the user’s personal print queue, make necessary print settings, and release the job for printing.

Scanning Enhancements
uniFlow v5.1 also adds enhanced document capture, routing and workflow, providing more scan destinations with direct desktop integration to enable post-scan document processing and manipulation. Also new are advanced features including linking to external databases for validating index information against pre-existing database content.

Improved Universal Print Driver
uniFlow v5.1’s universal printer driver contains an improved image compression technology resulting in smaller file sizes and consequently faster print-job processing. Additionally, Canon’s PCL 6 Generic print driver now supports secure printing, which includes the ability to make to make document finishing changes at an imageRunner Advance MFP, which in the past was only possible with the uniFLOW Universal Driver.

For more information on uniFlow in general, click here.

Visit oure web store for high quality Canon ink cartridges & Canon toner cartridges

Original source: Canon Launches Next-Generation uniFlow, Adds Printing from Mobile Devices, More Scan Destinations

New Brother Digital Color Units Offer Up to 4x Faster Color Printing Than Competing Color Laser Printers & All-in-Ones

2012-01-16T03:07:00.000-08:00

Brother International Corporation, a leader in color laser units for small office environments, has announced the launch of four new digital color units that utilize Brother LED technology. Brother has added two printer (HL-3045CN, HL-3075CW) and two all-in-one (MFC-9125CN, MFC-9325CW) units, which offer a category-leading color print speed of up to 19ppm – up to four times faster than competing Color Laser Printers and All-in-Ones, built-in networking and utilize Brother LED print technology for a fast, compact machine that will help enhance the productivity in any small business environment. These new models will be available beginning in January 2012.

Known for award-winning reliability and support, these new machines offer multiple opportunities for efficiencies within a small business environment. The units' category-leading color print speed significantly increases the level of output available to small business owners and helps save time when shared by multiple users on a network. Additionally, the units provide the convenience of producing high-quality, vibrant and professional looking documents in-house instead of sending out to a commercial copy center. These two features make the new Digital Color Printers and All-in-Ones the smart choice for small business owners looking for the convenience of affordable color printing.

"Small business owners are always looking to maximize efficiencies," said Steven Feldstein, director of marketing, laser products and scanners. "These new units offer significant value in both time and money with faster color printing, savings gained by printing in-house and overall reliability so small business owners know when they buy a Brother digital color printer, they are getting a solution that will go the distance for their business at a great price."

These new units (except the HL-3045CN) are also compatible with Brother™ iPrint&Scan free downloadable printing app for Apple, Android or Windows Phone 7 mobile devices on a wireless network. This app is a great tool for small business owners on the go to be able to access normal office functions, including printing and scanning, when urgent needs arise.

The latest series of Brother Printers and AiOs will be available at national office superstores, retailers, dealers and online resellers.

New Brother Digital Color Printers:
HL-3045CN (Estimated Street Price: $269.99)
* Fast color and black printing – up to 19ppm
* High-quality, professional-looking output – up to 600x2400 dpi resolution using Brother LED print technology
* Ethernet & Hi-Speed USB 2.0 interfaces
* Large input paper capacity of 250 sheets – adjustable for letter or legal. Plus, a single-sheet manual feed slot for envelope printing, thicker media or custom sizes
* One year limited warranty

HL-3075CW (Estimated Street Price: $299.99)
All the same features as the HL-3045CN, plus:
* Wireless 802.11 b/g interface
* USB Direct Interface – print files (JPEG & PDF) from your USB flash memory drive
* PCL6 and BR-Script3 emulations
* Compatible with Brother™ iPrint&Scan free downloadable printing app. For wireless printing (JPEG & PDF) from your Apple®, Android™ or Windows® Phone 7 (JPEG only) mobile device

New Brother Digital Color All-in-Ones:
MFC-9125CN (Estimated Street Price: $399.99)
* Print/Copy/Scan/Fax
* Fast color and black printing – up to 19ppm
* High-quality, professional-looking output – up to 600x2400 dpi resolution using Brother LED print technology
* Ethernet & Hi-Speed USB 2.0 interfaces
* Large input paper capacity of 250 sheets – adjustable for letter or legal. Plus, a single-sheet manual feed slot for envelope printing, thicker media or custom sizes
* 35-page capacity auto document feeder for multi-page copying, faxing or scanning
* Compatible with Brother™ iPrint&Scan free downloadable printing app. For wireless printing (JPEG & PDF) from and scanning to your Apple®, Android™ or Windows® Phone 7 (JPEG only and scanning not available) mobile device
* One year limited warranty

MFC-9325CW (Estimated Street Price: $449.99)
All the same features as the MFC-9125CN, plus:
* Wireless 802.11 b/g interface
* USB Direct Interface – print files (JPEG & PDF) from or scan to your USB flash memory drive

Visit our redesigned web store for Brother inkjet cartridges and Brother laser toner cartridges.

Original source: New Brother Digital Color Units Offer Up to 4x Faster Color Printing Than Competing Color Laser Printers & All-in-Ones

xPrintServer Provides Wireless Mobile Printing to Virtually Any Network Printer

2012-01-09T09:08:00.000-08:00

Lantronix has rolled out the first Apple iOS print server compatible with Apple iPad 2, iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch mobile devices, and virtually any device running Apple’s iOS mobile operating system. The new xPrintServer, which is about the size of an iPhone, provides an exceptionally easy solution for printing from Apple devices. Just plug the xPrintServer anywhere into the network via Ethernet cable, and print wirelessly from any iOS device running iOS 4.2 or later, to virtually any printer connected to the wired or wireless network. The xPrintServer, which uses the iOS native print menu, automatically discovers printers on the network – with no need to use apps, print drivers, or other software.

Lantronix says the xPrintServer, which retails for $149.95, currently supports thousands of printers from vendors such as Hewlett-Packard, Brother, Epson, Canon, Dell, Lexmark, and Xerox. As new printer brands and printer models become available, Lantronix will post updates on www.Lantronix.com. For a list of supported printers, see here. The firm says it’s tested the server in-house, and that third-party QualityLogic has also successfully tested the server. See the video demonstrating the xPrintServer at xPrintServer launch video.

The xPrintServer is currently available for pre-ordering at store.Lantronix.com. It’ll begin shipping in 2012’s first quarter.

Lantronix notes that easy printing from Apple mobile devices has become increasingly important, with more market research indicating that there are some 73 million iPad users around the world today, and 50 percent of those users use their iPad for business purposes. More than 900 million iPads are forecasted to be deployed globally by 2015. Notes Lantronix President and CEO Kurt Busch, “Printing in a corporate environment is a necessity, and with more than 90 percent of Fortune 500 companies slated to deploy iPads by the end of 2011, this is an ideal time to expand into this market.”

The firm, which is headquartered in Irvine, CA, and founded in 1989, markets secure communication technologies that enable remote access, management, and control of virtually any electronic device regardless of location, and its products are used in the security, building and industrial automation industries, as well as in medical, IT/data center, government, transportation, pro AV/signage, retail, and power and utility industries.

Original source: xPrintServer Provides Wireless Mobile Printing to Virtually Any Network Printer – No Apps or Print Drivers Required

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Ricoh Price Increase

2011-12-29T04:38:00.000-08:00

Dear Priceless Customers,

We regret to inform you that Ricoh has issued a price increase. Effective on January 3, 2012, Ricoh A3 printer models and associated accessories will reflect a 5% increase from the current suggested retail price and distribution price. A4 laser and Gel printers will have no change. All consumable parts and supplies will reflect a 3% increase without exception.

According to Ricoh, the increase is due to the ongoing appreciation of the Japanese Yen.

We would like to thank you for your continued business and look forward continuing to serve you needs.

Visit our web store for high quality Ricoh laser toner cartridges and printer supplies

Worldwide Printer, MFP Shipments Up 1.6 Percent in Third Quarter

2011-12-19T05:22:00.001-08:00

Market-research firm International Data Corporation (IDC) reports that the worldwide hardcopy peripherals market grew 1.6 percent in the third-quarter 2011 versus third-quarter 2010. According to IDC, over 31.3 million units were shipped in third-quarter 2011, versus 29 million units shipped in second-quarter 2011. MFPs continued to dominate the market, accounting for 66 percent of units shipped. Color-laser MFPs saw the biggest growth rates with year-over-year growth of 24.1 percent.

According to IDC’s Phuong Hang, program manager for the firm’s Worldwide Hardcopy Peripheral Trackers, most vendors’ production has recovered from the March 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Japan. However, Hang expects the market to remain flat for the remainder of the year due to growing concerns about the economy.

Technology Highlights
- The ink-jet market, and more specifically the color inkjet MFP market, is still the technology that holds the majority share of the hardcopy peripherals market, with over 19.6 million units shipped worldwide in the third-quarter, 16.1 million of which were color ink-jet MFP units.
- Monochrome laser devices continued to rank second in units shipped (8.6 million units), with 29 percent share of the hardcopy peripherals market. All regions except Western Europe and Middle East and Africa saw year-over-year growth in monochrome shipments.
- Color laser devices retained 6 percent share of the hardcopy market in third-quarter 2011 with 1.8 million units shipped. The MFP penetration at 51 percent and year-over-year growth of 24 percent for the color-laser market beats these same metrics for the monochrome-laser market, which are 43 percent and 17 percent respectively.

Vendor Highlights
- Hewlett-Packard / HP remained the number-one ranked vendor in third-quarter 2011 with worldwide market share of 42.9 percent and 13.5 million units shipped. The Americas region was strongest for HP in terms of unit growth, with 21 percent year-over-year growth, followed by the EMEA and Asia/Pacific (excluding Japan) (APeJ) regions with 13 percent and 9 percent growth respectively. HP’s worldwide year-over-year shipment growth was 0.8 percent.
- Canon maintained its position as the second-ranked vendor, with worldwide year-over-year growth of 5.2 percent. This performance was driven by 8 percent year-over-year growth in the APeJ region.
- Epson held onto the number-three position worldwide. Despite seeing year-over-year increase in the Americas, EMEA, and APeJ, Epson had a decline of 9.4 percent year-over-year in the worldwide hardcopy market, and lost one point share from a year ago to 12.6 percent share in third-quarter 2011.
- Samsung strengthened its position as the number-four vendor in the worldwide hardcopy market with 5.7 percent share, up one point from a year ago. Samsung’s worldwide shipments grew 8.3 percent year-over-year and it recorded shipments of 1.8 million units during the third quarter.
- Brother rounds out the top-five worldwide vendors with more than 1.7 million units shipped and 5.5 percent market share, unchanged from a year ago. The vendor's shipments grew 7.5 percent year-over-year and it posted positive shipment growth in all regions except for the United State.

Original source: Worldwide Printer, MFP Shipments Up 1.6 Percent in Third Quarter, Reports IDC

Visit our redesigned web store for high quality printer and MFP inkjet cartridges and laser toner cartridges.

Hewlett Packard and Lexmark Price Increases

2011-12-12T05:40:00.000-08:00

Dear Priceless Customers,

Please be aware that Hewlett Packard / HP and Lexmark recently announced price increases effective January 1st, 2012. Priceless Ink & Toner Company must react accordingly with a price increase effective January 1st, 2012.

Hewlett Packard:
HP will increase the price of toner cartridges by approximately 2%. In addition to the 2% increase, HP will increase list prices on twenty-seven (27) select HP legacy toner cartridges from 12-17%. This announced increase does not include ink. Additionally, HP is increasing the price on select parts, drums, and maintenance kits. According to HP, these price increases are in response to global economic conditions, including currency volatility.

Lexmark:
Lexmark is announcing an inkjet and laser supplies price increase of 3-7% across the majority of their product line. According to Lexmark, they experienced a higher than expected increase in supplies product costs, specifically materials and transportation.

You can always consider buying our Earth Friendly alternative printer products. We at Priceless Ink & Toner Company are prepared to discuss your specific needs and as always, we appreciate your business.

Visit our web store for high quality Earth Friendly compatible and remanufactured inkjet cartridges and laser toner cartridges

HP Scores Highest in Greenpeace Guide to Greener Electronics

2011-11-28T05:44:00.001-08:00

Hewlett-Packard was the top scorer in Greenpeace’s 2011 Guide to Greener Electronics, scoring 5.9 out of 10, and displacing Nokia, which had scored the highest for the last three years. Overall, Greenpeace, an environmental advocate organization, noted that HP is the “strongest on sustainable operations and energy criteria.” Nokia came in second, followed by Apple.

Now in its 17th edition, the Greenpeace Guide ranks 15 leading mobile phone, TV, and PC manufacturers on their environmental policies and practices for reducing their impact on the climate, producing greener products, and making their operations more environmentally sustainable. Greenpeace ranked the companies in three areas: Energy & Climate, Greener Products, and Sustainable Operations.

In the printer category, Greenpeace noted HP’s recycling of depleted ink cartridges, noting that HP has used more than 20,000 tons of recycled plastic resin in 760 million ink print cartridges from 2005 to 2009. HP’s goal is to use a total of 100 million pounds (45,000 tons) of recycled plastic in printers, including ink cartridges, between 2007 and 2011. Greenpeace’s Report Card on HP’s environmental initiatives and programs can be downloaded here.

HP was followed by Dell, which scored 5.1 out of 10. Samsung came in seventh, scoring 4.1 out of 10, while Panasonic came in ninth, and Sharp came in 11th. The Greenpeace Guide can be accessed here.

Original source: HP Scores Highest in Greenpeace Guide to Greener Electronics

Visit our web store for high quality Inkjet cartridges, Laser Toner Cartridges & Printer Ribbons

Free iPhone app: Scan Pages

2011-11-28T04:50:00.000-08:00

Ricoh Innovations, Inc. (RII), Ricoh's R&D subsidiary in Silicon Valley, California released a new free iPhone application called Scan Pages. Scan Pages application turns your smartphone into a mobile scanner. It organizes and cleans your mobile images using RII’s advance mobile image processing technology, and allows you to combine scanned pages in a PDF file and store in Google Docs, Evernote, Dropbox or share via E-mail.

Since its release in September, 2011, Scan Pages application has gained 110,000+ users with very positive comments, such as “Simply the Best. Just tested paid apps, this one way better by quality and is easy to use”. The application has also ranked in the top 100 business apps lists of over 40 countries in the Apple App Store.

Dr. Berna Erol, the Research Manager of Advanced Personal Technologies group at RII said that “Our previous mobile applications ‘Whiteboard Share’ has exceeded 100,000 users and ‘Image To Text’ has exceeded 150,000 users. We are very happy to create yet another popular mobile imaging application for users.”

If you have any question about Scan Pages, send an e-mail to betas@rii.ricoh.com

Original source: Free iPhone app: Scan Pages

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How the Olympics gave birth to the desktop printer

2011-11-21T03:59:00.000-08:00

Japanese OEM Epson created its first portable printer for the 1964 Olympic Games.

With the 2012 Olympic Games fast approaching, millions of fans around the world are looking forward to cheering their athletes on for the gold. It’s probably a safe bet that none of them are thinking about desktop printers.

But as the LA Times sports blog recounts, the Olympics may have had a crucial role in the creation of the desktop printer in Japan over 50 years ago by Seiko Epson.

At the 1964 Tokyo Games Suwa Seikosha Co. was given the prestigious task of becoming official timekeeper for the event, thanks to the reputation of its famous Seiko watches. A subsidiary called Shinshu Seiki Co was charged with handling the games, and debuted both new quartz timing technology and advanced LCD displays at the event.

A more unexpected innovation was the creation of their first portable printer. With some scores recorded electronically, the team realized they needed a way to quickly get them onto paper, leading to the creation of a small electronic printer.

While companies such as Xerox had already debuted printers, Shinshu Seiki’s machine was much smaller and easier to transport. Realizing the potential, they set about manufacturing a compact printer for wider use, resulting in the Ep-101 in 1968.

The EP (Electronic Printer) proved successful, and in 1975 Epson (the “son of EP”) was born, releasing its first dot-matrix printer in 1978.

Today Seiko Epson Corporation has continued in the spirit of its 1964 forbearers, as evidenced by the recent release of its “small-in-one” NX420 inkjet, one of the most compact in the market.

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Lexmark’s new app supports mobile printing

2011-11-21T03:24:00.000-08:00

Lexmark International, Inc. (NYSE: LXK) announced availability for its Lexmark Mobile Printing App for both Android and Apple iOS.

* The Lexmark Mobile Printing App, which is designed for Android and Apple iOS smartphones and tablets, allows you to print from virtually anywhere directly to the Lexmark Pro715 or Pro915 all-in-one (AIO) inkjets or most Lexmark laser printers introduced since 2005.

* The App makes it easy to “locate” a print device, add it to your list of preferred printers, and send pdf, tiff, or jpeg file formats for quick, on-demand printing.

* Apps for Android and Apple are available for free and easy download from the Android App Store or the iTunes Store.

Tablets, smartphones and cloud-based technology are changing the way small businesses and enterprises manage their day-to-day activities. For those on the go, moving between locations requires a greater need to access and produce documents anytime, anywhere with ease.

In today’s unwired world, mobile technology to quickly complete tasks is a new prerequisite to doing business. The new Lexmark Mobile Printing App, which works on both Lexmark inkjet and laser compatible products, has simplified wireless printing to meet the needs of any size business.

This new mobile print capability for Lexmark’s latest AIO inkjet technology, along with the Lexmark cloud-based Print Release solution announced in October, are among many Lexmark solutions designed to help small and medium businesses and enterprises be more efficient, saving them time and money.

Original source: Lexmark’s new app supports mobile printing

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Ricoh Named as Leader in Magic Quadrant for MFPs and Printers

2011-10-31T04:36:00.000-07:00

Ricoh Americas Corporation announced that Gartner placed Ricoh as a Leader in its Magic Quadrant for multifunction products (MFPs) and printers worldwide. Gartner's Magic Quadrant serves as a guide for midsize to large organizations to identify and evaluate technology providers that can match their global footprint, become their partners in helping them reduce costs and gain control of their printer fleets and help them reduce the environmental impact of the organization's print environment.

According to Gartner, "Leaders are the most capable in providing MFPs (including SMFPs), printers and the associated printing solutions and services, regardless of customer location. Providers in the Leaders quadrant offer the most extensive product portfolio relative to their peers, and they have the broad channel capability to deliver the products to customers where they want to procure them. Thus, Leaders hold consistently high market share worldwide and are capable of delivering consistent service levels in the regions where Gartner customers are located. Leaders tend to have the deepest global capability and the inventiveness and resources, skills and vision to deliver superior levels of support to existing and future customers globally. Leaders have a proven track record of channeling R&D initiatives into products and solutions that customers need."

Ricoh offers a complete line of network-capable MFPs and printers that print in black and white, color, or both. Ricoh multifunction products offer scanning, fax and copier options as well as advanced finishing capabilities. From small offices to centralized production printing environments, Ricoh MFPs and printers can help customers be more efficient and enhance productivity.

"We believe Ricoh's recognition by Gartner as a Leader in the 2011 MFP Magic Quadrant continues to affirm not only the strength of our products but our genuine commitment to customers and partners around the globe who share our vision," said Shun Sato, Senior Vice President, Marketing, Ricoh Americas Corporation. "We are also very proud to be recognized for our environmental track record which is so vital to sustaining our world as well as our ability to provide the global services needed to satisfy our customers."

Original source: Ricoh Named as Leader in Magic Quadrant for MFPs and Printers

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Canon Ranks Among Top 100 Global Brands For 2011

2011-10-31T04:08:00.000-07:00

For the eleventh consecutive year, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, announced its parent company, Canon Inc., has been ranked among the top 50 of the 100 Best Global Brands for 2011 by Interbrand, the leading brand consultancy. The Company, which placed 33 for the third year running and enjoyed a two-percent increase in brand value from 2010, is ranked as one of the top electronics manufacturers and the number three overall Japanese company on the list.

"This prestigious distinction reaffirms Canon's position as an innovative industry leader, dedicated to meeting the diverse needs of our customers throughout the world," said Bunji Yano, senior director and general manager, Corporate Communications, Canon U.S.A. "The Canon brand is recognized for its rich 70+ year heritage of delivering rich technology while continuing to strive to be an environmentally conscious organization."

According to Interbrand, "Canon continues its leadership position in the consumer digital camera market with a stable of innovative products and a loyal customer base. In a fiercely contested category, the brand is setting itself apart from the pack through its devotion to corporate citizenship." The consultancy also recognized Canon for its environmental sustainability initiatives and product recycling programs, as guided by the Company's corporate philosophy of Kyosei.

Interbrand's ranking method looks at the ongoing investment and management of a brand as a business asset, meaning its method takes into account the many ways in which a brand touches and benefits its organization. The three key aspects that contribute to the brand assessment are: the financial performance of the branded products or services; the role of the brand in a consumers' purchasing decision process; and the strength of the brand.

Original source: Canon Ranks Among Top 100 Global Brands For 2011

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GreenPrint Advisor Moves Print Jobs to More Cost-Effective Printers

2011-10-17T06:54:00.000-07:00

GreenPrint Technologies LLC is introducing a public beta version of GreenPrint Advisor software that helps users redirect print jobs from costly or inefficient printers to more cost-effective ones. GreenPrint, which is headquartered in Portland, OR, and also has an office in Bangalore, India, makes software that enable enterprises to measure, manage, and reduce their overall print volumes and costs.

Advisor is designed for use with GreenPrint Analytics software. GreenPrint Analytics is used to track print volumes and print costs. Cost per page data for the enterprise’s print fleet is imported into Advisor from Analytics’ administrative console, and allows administrators to group printers into Green, Yellow, and Red categories based on the printer's cost and efficiency attributes.

Whenever a user sends a print job, Advisor pops up with a message showing a more cost-effective or efficient alternative and shows the savings possible if the job is transferred to the green printer. The user can opt to print with the green printer, or can continue printing to their inititally selected printer.

GreenPrint Technologies also says Advisor can identify locally connected printers not on the network and not easily detectable by administrators.

GreenPrint also markets GreenPrint preView+ software, which helps users eliminate unnecessary pages, images, and text—such as a URL printed on the last page of a document downloaded from the Web—and print selected pages in grayscale, not color. It also shows print costs for each job (cost data is provided by GreenPrint Analytics), and provides detailed individual print reports that track costs and savings over time.

For more information, visit GreenPrint at PrintGreener.com

Original source: GreenPrint Advisor Designed to Move Print Jobs to More Cost-Effective Printers

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Artefact Unveils “Radically Simple” Ink-Jet Concept Printer

2011-10-10T02:42:00.001-07:00

Design group Artefact of Seattle, WA, introduced what it’s calling a “radically simple” color ink-jet printer, the See What You Print (SWYP) concept printer that provides a 1:1 editable preview of your print job on a large color touch screen. Using the touch screen, you can crop and adjust margins using your fingers – for instance, “pinch” the image to zoom in on it - and the touch screen is calibrated to show the effects of adjusting color image quality. The result, says Artefact, is that the touch screen displays nearly exactly how printed output will appear.

Artefact says it designed the SWYP concept printer to make it as easy as possible to get printouts from multiple sources, including wirelessly direct from digital cameras, mobile devices, and directly from Facebook photo streams and Flickr.

The overall design focus was “a printer as a box” (it’s about the size of a ream of paper) and providing essentials only, with easy access to the paper tray and ink cartridges. The the paper tray is covered in fabric, relying on the fabric’s material properties to create a hinge; when unfolded, it becomes a rigid tray, and it folds to stow on top of the printer. There’s also no power button. Instead, closing the paper tray shuts down the printer, while opening the paper tray turns it on.

Artefact won’t be manufacturing the printer – it says basically this concept printer was an exercise to show show how to innovate in very mature markets, “By re-thinking the product and focusing on core issues it is possible to revitalize a product that has lost its consumer appeal.”

Original source: Artefact Unveils “Radically Simple” Ink-Jet Concept Printer

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Epson Ink Cartridge Packaging Made of 100% Recycled Paperboard

2011-09-26T06:54:00.000-07:00

Epson America, Inc., a leading provider of superior performing desktop printing solutions, announced that it will save thousands of trees annually, decrease air pollution and eliminate nearly one million pounds of solid waste per year in its recent transition to 100 percent recycled paperboard ink cartridge boxes now available where Epson inks are sold in the U.S. and Canada.

“Epson is committed to environmental conservation, from our product recycling and donation programs to our recognized global sustainability efforts,” said Ron Mateas, corporate manager, Environmental Programs, Epson America, Inc. “Epson strives to be a socially responsible corporate citizen, and for the third year in a row has been named to the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index, an indicator for leading companies in economic, environmental and social criteria.”

All Epson packaging for consumer retail ink cartridges in the U.S. and Canada will consist of 100 percent recycled paperboard that can also be recycled when empty. By converting to recycled paperboard instead of virgin paperboard, less solid waste will be produced. In addition, by diverting fiber that would otherwise go into a landfill, the CO2 that would be emitted from decomposition of the material in a landfill is avoided, resulting in nearly one million pounds of solid waste eliminated per year. This move also eliminates the production of waste water equivalent to over 17 Olympic size swimming pools per year.

Recycled paperboard is made from 100 percent recovered paper that has been diverted from the solid waste stream and collected, separated, cleaned and recycled for use. Production of the recycled paperboard uses 50 percent less energy than converting virgin grades of paperboard, resulting in a significant reduction in greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere.

For more information on Epson and the Environment, visit Epson.com

Original source: Epson Ink Cartridge Packaging Made of 100 Percent Recycled Paperboard

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Xerox CiPress, World’s Only High-Speed Waterless Inkjet System

2011-09-19T05:41:00.000-07:00

The Xerox CiPress™ 500 Production Inkjet System, the world’s only high-speed waterless inkjet device, is making its North American debut at Graph Expo 2011. The supercharged system has earned high praise from a test customer, who calls it a “revolutionary, industry-changing solution.”

Printing 500 feet or 2,180 full-color pages per minute, the twin-engine device from Xerox Corporation (NYSE: XRX) efficiently creates personalized marketing, transpromo and publishing pieces.

The inkjet system was tested by dmh Marketing Partners, a direct-mail company that creates more than 800 million pieces annually. By using the Xerox CiPress 500, dmh achieved consistent quality from page to page, spending less time on recalibrating the printing press and more time maximizing profitable revenue opportunities.

“We are constantly looking for cutting-edge technology to drive the manufacturing process and we believe the CiPress 500 is the best technology for high-volume production,” said Randy Seberg, chief technology officer, dmh Marketing Partners.

Waterless technology
Building from its patented solid ink technology, Xerox CiPress 500 enables printing on low-cost, plain paper without ink soaking through. This – together with self-monitoring and auto-correcting production controls – results in a workhorse device reliable enough to print tens of millions of pages every month. Xerox’s FreeFlow® Print Server enhances productivity by handling complex variable jobs without sacrificing print speed.

“The predictability and consistency is very high – the first sheet looks the same as sheet 500,000, which I could never say of an offset press,” added Seberg.

Drive more jobs, reduce costs with Xerox’s IntegratedPlus
Printers can be even more productive and efficient with Xerox’s IntegratedPlus – a new program that takes advantage of the open standards platform of Xerox FreeFlow Print Server and various industry-leading partner software solutions.

The first such offering – Xerox GMC IntegratedPlus – uses custom-designed software for the Xerox FreeFlow Print Server and CiPress 500, which delivers an extra boost of productivity. The results: consistent quality, two-way data communication, reduced labor costs and fewer opportunities for errors in a print run – all of which drive volume and revenue growth.

“As the demand for color pages continues to grow, inkjet devices such as the Xerox CiPress 500 become a strategic installation – positioning printers to capture more profitable jobs and produce them in the most productive, economical way,” said Eric Armour, president, Graphic Communications Business Group, Xerox Corporation.

Pricing and availability
The list price for Xerox CiPress 500 Production Inkjet System, including the Xerox FreeFlow Print Server, is $3.8 million for the base twin-engine duplex. Order taking begins immediately with installs slated for later this year.

Original source: Xerox CiPress, World’s Only High-Speed Waterless Inkjet System, Opens New Revenue Streams with Lucrative, High-Volume Pages

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Lexmark Adds New SmartSolutions to Color Ink-Jet All-in-Ones

2011-08-22T04:18:00.001-07:00

Lexmark has added a number of new SmartSolutions to its color ink-jet All-in-One series, the latter of which it had introduced two years ago. The firm’s color ink-jet All-in-Ones are designed for users in small and mid-size businesses, and is led by the flagship Platinum Pro905. SmartSolutions include touch-screen shortcuts for making everyday printing tasks—such as scanning to e-mail addresses—easier. They also provide access to Web content at the touch screen when the All-in-One is connected to the Web, so that, for instance, users can print Web content without using a PC or print driver.

The latest SmartSolutions are from Legal Zoom, an online, fee-based legal-services firm that provides legal forms and filing of legal documents such as wills, patents, and incorporations. The LegalZoom SmartSolutions are for accessing and printing legal forms, such as employee applications, bills of sale, etc., at the touch screen. The advantage is that you only print forms when needed, eliminating waste and having to store hardcopy forms in filing cabinets, desks, etc. The LegalZoom SmartSolutions include:

* Employment Forms ($29.95) – Includes employment application, offer letter, review, written warning, and termination letter.
* Bill of Sales Forms ($39.95) – Includes Automobile Bill of Sale, Automobile Bill of Sale with Promissory Note, Boat Bill of Sale, Motorcycle Bill of Sale, and Bill of Sale with Warranty.
* Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) Forms ($37.95) – Includes Mutual NDA, Employee NDA, Unilateral NDA, Business NDA, and Extension of NDA.
* Landlord and Tenant Forms ($39.95) - Includes Residential Rent Application, Commercial Rent Application, Termination of Lease, Move In/Move Out Checklist, Late Payment Collection Letter, and Rent Receipt.
* Business-Agreement Forms ($34.95) - Includes General Agreement, Consulting Services Agreement, Extension of Agreement, Amendment of Agreement, and Independent Contractor Agreement.

All of the LegalZoom SmartSolutions are designed for compliance with U.S. laws, and are only available in the United States.

Wirth Consulting evaluated the Platinum Pro905 when it was first introduced. At the touch screen, they customized two SmartSolutions, Scan and Copy. For instance, with the "Scan Expense Forms To Kathy" solution, files are scanned using pre-configured settings and automatically routed to a specified user, which is very useful for processing frequent scan jobs. With the Copy SmartSolution, you can create a one-touch key that activates a collection of pre-defined copy-job settings, such as draft, duplex, portrait orientation, etc.

Easier Envelope Printing
A new free SmartSolution is Envelope Wizard, which greatly simplifies the typically tricky task of printing on envelopes. At the Lexmark All-in-One’s touch screen, select the Envelope Wizard icon, specify the size of the envelope you’re printing on, and then enter the destination address and return address. The system remembers your return address, so you won’t have to re-enter it in the future.

Scan to Xambox with OCR
With the free Xambox SmartSolution, select the Xambox icon on the touch screen, then scan your documents to your free account on Xambox, a Cloud-based document storage site. The Xambox app also adds OCRing, so that your document will be converted into editable text, and indexed for easy retrieval by keyword.

Monitor Twitter, Facebook Feeds
For those addicted to Twitter feeds, the free Twitter SmartSolution enables you to view real-time Tweets from people you follow on Twitter on the Lexmark All-in-One’s touch screen. If you don’t have a Twitter account, you can use Twitter Search to search for any subject or term and then see what others are saying about it on Twitter.
Similarly, the free Facebook SmartSolution allows you to view Facebook news feeds, wall posts, comments and pictures on the touch screen. Users can also print pictures from their albums and feeds directly from the touch screen, without using a PC and print driver.
SmartSolutions can be accessed and purchased at Lexmark’s SmartSolution Center.

Original source: Lexmark Adds New LegalZoom, Envelope-Printing SmartSolutions to Color Ink-Jet All-in-Ones

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HP Announces Drivers for Apple Mac OS X Lion

2011-08-22T03:59:00.000-07:00

Hewlett-Packard / HP has announced printer driver support for OS X Lion, Apple’s new operating system for the Mac. The firm says it worked with Apple to provide Mac users with support for more than 1,300 HP peripherals, as well as and scan-driver support for most of its newer All-in-Ones.

For Mac users upgrading to Lion, current HP drivers will continue to work. Users with a new Mac running Lion can automatically download HP’s latest print, scan and utility software through Apple Software Update. More information is available here and here.

Original source: HP Announces Drivers for Apple Mac OS X Lion

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New Epson Artisan All-in-Ones

2011-08-15T03:12:00.000-07:00

Epson has just introduced the first two members of its fall product lineup, the Artisan 837 and 730 color ink-jet All-in-Ones for home and home-office users. Earlier in July, Wirth Consulting visited with Epson executives at a midtown-Manhattan analyst and press event to preview the new All-in-Ones, as well as other not-yet-announced ink-jet systems. While the other new members of Epson’s fall product line are still under non-disclosure, one bit of information we can share is that the firm will definitely be expanding to play in the higher-volume ink-jet segment.

Upgrades to the new Artisan 836 and 730 include a much brighter green touch panel panel with 2.5” color LCD; the brighter LEDs make it operate the touch panel. And, in a departure from the black that seems to have become the norm, the units feature a midnight-blue chassis; both re-designs make for a striking appearance.

The Artisan 837 and 730 also incorporate wireless connectivity and Epson Connect for printing from mobile devices without connecting with cables to the printer or downloading print drivers:

* The free Epson iPrint app is for mobile printing from Apple iPhone, iPad, and iPad touch mobile devices. Users can print Web pages, Microsoft Office documents, photos, and Adobe PDFs. They can also use the Artisan to scan to their Apple mobile devices, and then e-mail the document, upload it to a Cloud document-storage and sharing site such Dropbox or Google Docs, etc.

* The free PrintJinni for Epson app also for Apple devices is compatible with iWork and Microsoft Office, and is for printing photos and PDFs. It also provides full-page print previews

* The PriApps Mobile Print app is $9.99 and is for printing from BlackBerry smartphones.

Both Artisans are the same except that the flagship Artisan 837 ($299.99) also provides color fax, PC fax, and 30-sheet automatic document feeder. The Artisan 730 provides flatbed platen scanning only (no document feeder).

Specifications are still limited for the new Artisan 837 and 730, both of which use Epson’s MicroPiezo ink-jet technology and Claria Ultra Hi-Definition inks, but available information is as follows:
* Wireless Wi-Fi Certified n2 and Ethernet networking.
* Rated ISO print speeds of 9.6 (black)/9.1 color. Duplex ISO print speed is at 4.9 (black)/4.7 (color) ppm color. Print 4"x6" photos in as fast as 10 seconds.
* Automatic duplex printing, and two paper trays. Print on ink-jet printable CDs/DVDs.
* Auto Photo Correction software.
* Individual ink cartridges that are available in both standard and high-capacity sizes.
* Both units are Energy Star-qualified and comply with RoHS standards.

The Artisan 837 and Artisan 730 will ship in September through major computer, office and electronic superstores, a variety of retail stores nationwide and at Epson's retail site

Original source: New Epson Artisan All-in-Ones Start at $199.99, Feature Epson Connect Mobile-Print Apps

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Xerox’s Global Imaging Steps Up Acquisitions, Adds Sixth Acquisition for 2011

2011-08-15T02:38:00.000-07:00

Xerox’s Global Imaging Systems has acquired another independent reseller, Bennett’s Business Systems, Inc., of Jacksonville, FL, which is an independent distributor of Canon and Hewlett-Packard digital copiers, printers, and MFPs. Bennett’s Business Systems will immediately begin offering Xerox’s full range of office-imaging systems. Bennett’s, which has locations in Jacksonville, Orlando and Tallahassee, will also become part of Saxon Business Systems, Inc. a Global Imaging Systems company that’s headquartered in Miami Lakes, FL.

In 2011 alone, Global Imaging, which operates as an office-technology dealer, has made the following acquisitions:
* In July, acquired Xerographic Solutions, Inc., which in based in Rochester, NY, and provides managed print and network services.
* Also in July, acquired Miller Technology Solutions, Inc., which is based in Virginia, and is a managed services company specializing in financial IT services.
* In May, acquired Midwest Business Solutions, Inc. of Des Moines, IO, and is an independent distributor of copiers, printers and MFPs, and which now markets Xerox office-imaging systems.
* In April acquired Premier Office Equipment, Inc., one of Iowa’s largest office-equipment dealers.
* Also in April, acquired the assets of United Business Solutions of Addison, IL. United Business Solutions is an independent distributor of copiers, printers and MFPs, and provides document-management and software solutions to businesses in the Chicago area.

Altogether, since Global Imaging was acquired by Xerox in 2007 as a wholly owned subsidiary, it has acquired some 18 independent office-imaging providers as part of Xerox’s strategy to create a nationwide network of locally based providers of imaging systems and network-integration services for small and mid-size businesses.

Original source: Xerox’s Global Imaging Steps Up Acquisitions, Adds Sixth Acquisition for 2011

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Saving Toner and Ink with Pixel Optimization Software

2011-08-09T04:03:00.000-07:00

The promise is that you can cut your toner and ink costs without affecting your printed image quality. While virtually anyone can do this just by using their print-driver’s draft mode, the problem with draft mode is that because less toner or ink is used, text and images appear lighter and less distinct—essentially because the printer’s dpi resolution has been dropped, typically from 600 to just 300 dots per inch (dpi). While draft mode is a good way to cut costs when used for in-house and draft documents, draft-mode image quality may not be acceptable for finals and documents sent outside the enterprise.

Enter Preton Ltd., an Israeli-based company that promises its toner-save software reduces the amount of toner or ink applied to the document, but without degrading image quality, and saving up to 25 to 50 percent in toner costs. The company recently announced a partnership with Pharos Systems, a Rochester, NY, firm that markets its Blueprint Enterprise software for managing printers and reducing print costs. Under the partnership, Pharos is incorporating Preton’s toner-save technology and printer-management software, called PretonSaver, into Pharos’ BluePrint Enterprise software. PretonSaver provides the toner-saving software, as well as device identification and monitoring across the enterprise, usage reports, and page coverage, as well print policies, the last of which, for instance, enables administrators to enforce cost-saving print rules, such as forcing users to print in two-sided duplex mode.

Controlling Toner and Ink Applied to the Page
How does Preton’s toner-save technology—called Pixel Optimizer—work? Preton says that the software, using advanced mathematical algorithms, is able to identify unnecessary use of toner or ink, and then stops it from being applied to the paper. Because the software prevents only application of unnecessary toner, image quality is said to be unaffected.

Specifically, the software addresses a fact of computer printing: images and text displayed on the computer monitor are composed of pixels that are square. However, in order to describe this date on a page, the printer must use circular pixels (dots) of toner or ink, not squares. Because the printer forms a circle, it applies the dot of toner or ink outside of the square, resulting in toner or ink waste, as the figure to the right shows. What Pixel Optimizer software does is identify overlapped pixels, and prevents the printer from applying more ink or toner. Preton says the spaces left by the removed pixels are covered by excess toner or ink from adjacent pixels.

Elements Identifier
Preton says its technology goes further by identifying different elements on a page such as text, pictures, or graphics, which it says are affected differently by the removal of pixels. Text image quality is effected the least for up to 50-percent savings according to Preton. However, pixel-removal can more negatively affect graphics and photographs’ image quality. Consequently, the software is programmed to intelligently identify graphics and photos and removes fewer pixels, so that toner or ink saved when printing graphics and photos is less—from 20 to 30 percent.

Preton is offering a free trial download of its toner/ink-saving software for home users is available here. Pharos’ Blueprint software bundled with the Pixel Optimizer technology is available through Pharos Systems’ worldwide network of sales personnel.

Original source: A Look at “Toner-Save” Software: Saving Toner and Ink with Pixel Optimization Software

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New Service from Konica Minolta for Locking-Down bizhub MFP Hard Drives

2011-08-01T06:38:00.001-07:00

Konica Minolta is introducing bizhub Secure Service for locking down its bizhub MFPs’ hard drives, so that unauthorized users can’t access temporary and stored information in the MFP’s internal hard drive. Secure Service is enabled by a Konica Minolta field engineer, and is available for purchase from Konica Minolta representatives. All bizhub MFPs are compatible with the service, which provides:

* Hard-Drive Encryption - The hard drive encryption setting is a 20-character alphanumeric key that encrypts the entire contents of the hard drive. This feature uses real-time 128-bit AES encryption algorithms and provides the highest level of protection if the hard drive is removed from a bizhub MFP and an unauthorized user attempts to extract its data.

* Hard-Drive Lock Password – Electronically locks password-protection to the hard drive via a 20-digit alphanumeric password. The password is applied directly to the BIOS of the hard drive, and prevents access to data stored in the hard drive. This also protects the hard drive from unauthorized access if it’s removed or switched to another bizhub MFP.

* Automatic Deletion of Temporary Image Data – With this feature, files stored in both private and public User Boxes in hard-drive memory are automatically deleted according to a pre-set schedule. Files stored in system boxes, such as a secure print box or encrypted Adobe PDF print box, can also be automatically deleted based on a pre-set schedule. The customer selects how long files remain in User Boxes before they are automatically deleted.

* Data Overwrite of Electronic Documents on a Timed Basis – Customers can also erase the temporary data recorded by the hard drive every time a job is processed by enabling Temporary Data Overwrite. This feature automatically overwrites each completed job, deleting it from the hard drive and leaving no trace of its data anywhere in the system. It uses either one-time overwrite or three-time overwrite in compliance with U.S. Department of Defense standards.

According to Konica Minolta, bizhub MFP security systems are independently certified to the ISO 15408 Data security standard established by the Common Criteria for Information Technology Security Evaluation, and the entire system architecture of the MFP is certified, not just particular components.

Original source: New Service from Konica Minolta for Locking-Down bizhub MFP Hard Drives

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Lexmark Releases Print Drivers for New Apple Mac OS X Lion

2011-08-01T06:16:00.000-07:00

Lexmark has released print drivers for use with Apple’s latest operating system, Mac OS X Lion, which has just been released. More than 150 Lexmark printer drivers are available for download via Apple’s Software Update utility.

The Lexmark compatibility page lists all Lexmark printer that support Mac OS X Lion, and also shows users where they can find drivers for their specific printer model. Set up on Mac OS X Lion requires two basic steps: Install Mac OS X 10.7 printer drivers and Set up print/fax queue.

Original source: Lexmark Releases Print Drivers for New Apple Mac OS X Lion

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Canon U.S.A. Implements Aggressive Energy-Saving Practices

2011-07-18T05:06:00.001-07:00

Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, announced the results of an aggressive office energy savings program conducted in five U.S. office locations, including its Lake Success headquarters, resulting in reported savings of 2.7 million kilowatt-hours of energy from 2009 through 2010. Initially conceived in 2008, the energy-saving steps implemented across the five locations is equal to approximately $300,000 in utility fees over the two-year period, saving enough energy to power its Lake Success headquarters for four months.

As part of its ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability, the Company examined its energy practices at four U.S. regional office locations -- Itasca, IL, Irving, TX, Jamesburg, NJ, and Irvine, CA, as well as its Lake Success, NY headquarters-- to uncover areas where energy consumption could be improved, and implemented strategies to reduce consumption. Additionally, the Company expanded the scope of its environmental training to cover energy and resource consumption in the office, and to increase awareness of techniques that reduce energy, paper, toner and other materials.

To achieve its energy-saving goals, Canon U.S.A. focused on four key areas:
1. Energy-Efficient Lighting: Canon U.S.A. installed high-efficiency, low-carbon lighting, replacing thousands of light bulbs throughout its U.S. offices. The company also installed automatic switches that rely on motion sensors that switch off if a room is not in use. Select lighting was also removed, deactivated and/or reduced altogether in areas near sources of natural light (windows) and low-traffic areas (hallways).
2. New Computer Screens: The Company replaced more than 4,000 cathode ray tube computer screens in its offices with energy efficient LCD monitors. Outgoing monitors were donated to local schools and charities, limiting waste and extending use of the products.
3. Energy Efficient Document Management: More than 550 personal printers were removed from service, and replaced with imageRUNNER and imageRUNNER ADVANCE multifunction devices. Canon installed uniFLOW printing software to manage its fleet of document output devices, a strategy the Company recommends to its own customers. Among a variety of workflow enhancing capabilities, uniFLOW has the ability to route print jobs to the most energy-efficient printer available, determined by establishing a baseline of energy consumption that measures paper, toner and power use of printers on the network. In 2010, the company saved more than 1.6 million sheets of paper by using duplex printing.
4. Operational Management Efficiencies: Canon limits the hours that its buildings are lit during the business week; staff staying late or working on weekends need to inform facilities if lighting is needed beyond allotted 'lit hours.' Unnecessary lights are automatically turned off after-hours based on the use of motion detectors in some areas.

"With such a strong commitment to environmental sustainability, the team at Canon U.S.A. is inspired to be green by implementing stringent measures to save energy and minimize our environmental footprint," said Joe Adachi, president and chief executive officer, Canon U.S.A., Inc. "We are happy to share our experiences and strategies for energy savings, to show others that taking measures to go green and protect the environment for future generations can have an enormous impact, both at home and in the office."

Canon U.S.A. is an ardent supporter of environmental and community enrichment campaigns. For years, Canon U.S.A. has supported a variety of programs, including the Canon Envirothon, Yellowstone Foundation, PBS/Nature Series and the Arbor Day Foundation. Canon works in voluntary partnership with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to design products that meet the high standards of its ENERGY STAR^® program. Similarly, Canon collaborates with the EPA's WasteWise and SmartWay Transportation Partnerships to reduce the impact of our municipal solid waste and transportation activities. As one of the first companies to collect and recycle used copier toner cartridges, Canon U.S.A.'s Generation Green initiative combines the company's latest environmentally-friendly printer products and solutions, promoting paper saving technology, minimized product packaging and energy saving measures. More than 800 Canon sites, including those in Canon U.S.A., are certified to the ISO 14001 standard. This internationally recognized standard provides organizations with a framework for developing effective Environmental Management Systems (EMSs).

Original Source: Canon U.S.A. Implements Aggressive Energy-Saving Practices To Cut Energy Consumption by 2.7 Million Kilowatt-Hours

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Toshiba Joins Cortado Cloud-Printing Alliance

2011-07-04T06:09:00.000-07:00

Toshiba America Business Solutions (TABS) has joined the Cortado Cloud Printing Alliance, as part of its strategy for secure, wireless mobile printing from mobile devices such as Apple iPad and iPhone, Blackberry, Android and Symbian mobile devices.

The Cloud Printing Alliance was founded by Cortado, a division of ThinPrint AG, together with printer and Wi-Fi router manufacturers, Hot Spot providers, software developers, and mobile operators. The goal of the alliance is to work together to make on-demand mobile printing easy from any device and at any location. Current printer vendors who are members include Brother, Eastman Kodak, Konica Minolta, Kyocera Mita, Lexmark, Oki Printing Solutions, and now Toshiba.

With Cortado’s cloud-printing solution, documents can be stored in the cloud (using cloud services such as Box.net, Google Docs, etc.), and then printed from smartphones and tablets to any Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connected printer, regardless of device, printer or file type.

Cortado says its solutions supports “thousands of printer models from over 90 printer manufacturers worldwide,” and that it currently hosts more than 5,000 print drivers, with the number of print drivers it supports “constantly updated and expanded.” It says, however, that “printers most suitable for printing” are those marketed by Cloud Printing Alliance manufacturers. Recommended printers from Cloud Printing Alliance manufacturers display a “Cortado Cloud Printing Ready” logo.

The Cortado solution includes the Cortado Workplace app, which provides 2 GB of online storage, and can be set up for free when users install the Cortado Workplace app on mobile devices. It provides round-the-clock access to files and documents with wireless mobile cloud printing, regardless of the file type or user’s access to a PC. The user simply logs on with their Web-enabled mobile device and can use any installed imaging device. The drivers required to print are stored within the Cortado Hosting Center.

Noted TABS President and COO Mark Mathews. “One important feature often missing for many people is the ability to print while on the road. Now, due to our membership in the Cortado Cloud Printing Alliance, Toshiba MFPs will be fully supported and accessible from mobile devices.”

Original Source: Toshiba Joins Cortado Cloud-Printing Alliance; National Dealer Meeting Overview

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HP Ups Prices on Designjet Inkjet Cartridges and Print Heads

2011-06-27T03:44:00.000-07:00

Some distributors are reporting that HP has announced that it will increase prices for older model Designjet inkjet cartridges and print head by approximately 10 percent as of July 1. A table listing the SKUs for which HP is increasing pricing, plus old and new list prices, appears here. The OEM’s note to its distributors attributes the increase to “rising production and supply chain costs.”

While it is possible that some of the upward price pressure is due to raw material shortages stemming form the earthquake in Japan, this is certainly not the only contributing factor. Printer OEMs have been facing rising production and raw material costs for some time now, well before the earthquake occurred. One reason is volatility in the price of oil. Oil prices are down a bit this month, but the price of crude oil is up about 20 percent compared with last year. Cartridge casings, carbon black, and other key components in both ink and toner cartridges are petro-chemical based, so higher oil prices put pressure on OEMs to raise supplies prices. The industry saw most printer OEMs and even some remanufacturers raise supplies prices in late 2008 and early 2009 when oil prices reached record highs.

HP is not alone in feeling the need to protect its margins by increasing pricing. Recently, The Recycler reported that Sun Chemical has raised prices for some ink prices, citing increases in raw material costs. The company issued separate announcements increasing prices in North America on June 3 and in Europe on June 16. Sun cited “an unrelenting elevation of costs on raw materials,” stemming from reduced capacity and increased demand. Sun Chemical also raised prices in February of this year citing similar factors.

It will be interesting to see if this is the extent of the price increases for HP or if it is a harbinger of more prices increases to come. Supplies price increases might prove devastating for an industry looking to drive print volumes again following a recession and the increased popularity of the many electronic alternatives to traditional print media.

Original Source: HP Ups Prices on Designjet Inkjet Cartridges and Print Heads

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20,000 Lexmark workgroup printers to be deployed at U.S. VA locations

2011-06-20T08:46:00.000-07:00

Lexmark International, Inc. recently became the manufacturer of choice for a national workgroup and color laser printer bid sourced by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The contract calls for the potential placement of more than 20,000 Lexmark E, T and C Series workgroup monochrome and color laser printers throughout 260 VA locations, including outpatient clinics in the U.S., within the next 90 to 120 days. The contract is expected to help the VA achieve more than $15 million in savings in relation to standard purchasing costs.

The award is the first national printer bid sourced by the VA. Previously, the VA sourced its printers regionally with awards made independently by each specific Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN), Region, or Medical Center.

This national award will help standardize the entire agency with Lexmark, eliminating the challenges associated with deploying, managing and maintaining a multi-vendor fleet of printing devices. The national award also meets the VA's need for workgroup monochrome and color laser printers that align with its strategic goals of reducing costs and environmental impact. The contract also supports the VA's need to ensure the accuracy and completeness of its information resources, reduce the complexity of its IT infrastructure, and optimize the efficiency of its business processes.

The winning VA bid was awarded directly to Alvarez & Associates, LLC, a Washington, D.C.-based information technology and executive management services company. Alvarez & Associates is a Lexmark partner and a 100 percent Service Disabled Veteran Owned /Small Business (SDVO/SB) that provides intellect, analysis, technology and counsel to government agencies.

Supporting Quotes:

"Lexmark is proud to support the vital mission of Veterans Affairs," said Marty Canning, Lexmark executive vice president and president of Imaging Solutions and Services. "Lexmark Government Solutions provides products, services and solutions that enable agencies to manage their data and documents more efficiently and securely while lowering costs and better meeting their output needs.

"Lexmark's wide range of laser printers deployed across these locations will help support the critical care services that are delivered to our military veterans and their families," added Canning.

"The joint efforts of the Alvarez and Lexmark teams and the quality Lexmark printers that meet the specific needs of the VA were the key components in achieving this important contract," stated Kirk Hanson, executive vice president and general manager for Alvarez & Associates.

Original Source: 20,000 Lexmark workgroup printers to be deployed at U.S. VA locations

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Epson Aims To Become Inkjet-Only Outfit

2011-06-13T03:41:00.000-07:00

Epson's long term strategy in the printing market is to provide a complete range of inkjet solutions to cover all the five major segments, potentially replacing lasers in the process, ITProPortal can exclusively reveal.

Rob Clark, Executive Director of Marketing at Epson Europe, told ITProPortal.com that Epson is pushing for inkjets to gradually move up the market towards the small & medium enterprise segments and ultimately invading the corporate sector.

This however, he conceded, is going to be a very long term endeavour and partly explains why Epson is ploughing seven per cent of its annual revenue into research and development.

Clark said that Epson will capitalise on its proprietary piezoelectric inkjet technology which is radically different from other inkjet printing technologies and which the company believes can help it deliver a complete portfolio of products to match market demands.

A little known fact is that Epson, like some of its competitors, doesn't own the IP to the fundamental parts of a laser printer. Instead it uses third party technology for its laser printers which prevents it from differentiating itself fully from the rest of the market. Becoming an inkjet-only manufacturer would provide the printing industry with a compelling alternative to laser at the upper end of the spectrum.

Owning the technology is critical for Epson which is why Clark confirmed that Epson UK will stick to its current range of products - projectors, printers and scanners. No cameras, tablets, netbooks, computers and smartphones coming our way.

Epson introduced its first piezoelectric printer back in 1993 with the Epson MJ500 followed by the Stylus Color and with the latest range of Epson printers - the Workforce Pro - being launched in September 2011, Epson will hope that it helps push its printer range to the next level.

Targeting both micro and small businesses, the Workforce Pro uses the same base unit and printer engine and adds different functionalities (scanning, Wi-Fi, a touchscreen display, duplex printing, faxing & copying) to suit the diverse demands of the market.

In addition, Epson's printer designers have been very attentive to details. Workforce Pro printers for the small businesses will be white which, we were told, reduces lighting requirements (and associated costs) in an office environment. The Workforce Pro products are built to look like laser printers; big, solid, sturdy and reassuringly heavy with massive cartridges that, Epson says, will help halve the cost of printing per page.

Original Source: Exclusive: Epson Aims To Become Inkjet-Only Outfit

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Survey Reveals Nearly 8 in 10 of America’s Office Managers Doing More with Fewer Resources

2011-05-16T07:37:00.000-07:00

According to the Small Business Administration (SBA), small businesses create 60-80 percent of all new jobs in the country and more than half of Americans now either own or work for a small business. During National Small Business Week (May 16 – 20), government officials are gathering in Washington, D.C., to acknowledge and celebrate the contributions that small businesses and the entrepreneurs who run them make to the economic well-being of America.

In conjunction with Small Business Week and as part of its continuing efforts to support small businesses, Cartridge World has announced the results of a first-of-its-kind office managers survey. The survey of office managers nationwide revealed that a majority are enduring increased stress in the workplace. Indicating the need to accomplish more with less time and fewer resources, 79 percent of office managers told Cartridge World that in the past two years their job responsibilities have increased. Meanwhile, a third (34 percent) of respondents said they are working with decreased budgets compared to two years ago.

“We are an ally of small business and our goal is to gain a better understanding of the stress points that these office managers deal with every day,” says Tom Fricke, Cartridge World’s chief executive officer. “We conducted our survey to gain insight into the needs, challenges and concerns of small business office managers. They told us they are dealing with tighter budgets, greater responsibilities and more stress on the job.”

With the vast majority of office managers, over 86 percent responsible for office supply purchasing decisions, Cartridge World aims to help them operate more cost-effectively and to relieve their workplace stress. But beyond simply saving money on the products they use most, the survey revealed additional pressures that impact the office manager on the job.

“There never seems to be enough time to get everything done,” says Janell Dirkson, office manager at the Larkspur Hotel Union Square in San Francisco. “Many decisions need to be made quickly and often last minute. We often have last-minute needs which require quick turnaround, but many vendors can’t respond in the needed timeframe and won’t deliver on last-minute requests. We’ve also become highly budget-conscious – really drilling down to what’s truly needed and affordable.”

The survey also revealed an increased focus on the bottom line, with 62 percent of respondents citing the need to find the best supplies at the lowest price among their top job concerns. Of this group, 73 percent of respondents stated that they would switch to remanufactured cartridges if they saved money while 71 percent of respondents cited cost savings as the number one benefit to using remanufactured cartridges.

“Simple steps like switching to remanufactured ink and toner can have an enormous impact on the bottom line,” says Fricke. “Annual savings can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the size and type of business.”

SURVEY METHODOLOGY

During the week of March 21, nearly 400 office managers responded to an online survey of managers nationwide. Commissioned by Cartridge World, the survey asked office managers about their job responsibilities and office supply buying behaviors.

Original Source: Survey Reveals Nearly 8 in 10 of America’s Office Managers Doing More with Fewer Resources

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HP Enhances Office Productivity with New Workflow Solutions

2011-05-09T06:45:00.000-07:00

Hewlett Packard / HP announced new imaging and printing solutions and devices designed to help small and midsize businesses (SMBs) and enterprise organizations enhance employee productivity, both in the office and on the go.

By making strategic decisions about their imaging and printing investments – including streamlining paper-intense processes – businesses can improve office efficiencies and uncover new revenue streams.

“In recent years, IT organizations have been under tremendous stress to control and reduce costs while also investing in business process innovation,” said Jeff Hayes, president of InfoTrends, a market research and strategic consulting firm. “Successful organizations realize they need to strategically invest across their entire IT infrastructure including business printing.”

HP’s announcement includes:

* Expanding HP solutions suitable for the enterprise but scaled for SMBs and delivered by channel solutions partners.
* Introduction of strategic technology partners Hyland Software and Nuance as well as new workflow solutions for healthcare and financial services enterprise customers.
* New and enhanced multifunction printers ideal for the office environment and featuring ePrint capabilities.

“Customers need a partner that can help them solve complex business issues,” said Bruce Dahlgren, senior vice president, Managed Enterprise Solutions Business, HP. “Our new technologies and innovations are designed to transform paper-intense processes into simple digital workflows, allowing businesses to identify new opportunities for growth.”

Extending HP solutions to SMBs

HP solutions previously only available to HP’s enterprise customers are now available through select channel partners. These HP trained and certified partners will offer a portfolio of printing and imaging applications. New applications include;

* HP ePrint Enterprise – For businesses with on-the-go workers who need to access and use content from their smartphones, HP ePrint Enterprise improves productivity through mobile access to print without data ever leaving a secure network.
* HP Access Control Printing Solutions – For businesses that need a more secure, less wasteful print environment, HP Access Control – recently enhanced with new features – delivers cost controls, security functions and simple operation.
* HP and TROY Secure Document Printing Solution – For businesses that need to print high-value, black-and-white documents with antifraud security features using plain paper and their enterprise-class HP PCL5 LaserJet printers and multifunction printers (MFPs).

SMBs also benefit from downloadable solutions that further streamline document workflows and processes.

* The HP Web-Connected Business App, accessed through a printer’s touchscreen, is designed to increase productivity with improved document workflows. The latest business app from HP includes the ability to print business forms through the DocStoc app.
* The HP LaserJet MFP Wizard Console is a set of tools on select HP LaserJet MFPs that help SMBs manage and streamline their document handling processes. The wizards make it easy for users to set up send-to-email and send-to-folder workflows to efficiently create and distribute scanned documents.

Partners and solutions to accelerate business processes for the enterprise

The HP Solutions Business Partner (SBP) program combines a broad imaging and printing portfolio, a visionary platform strategy and document management expertise with solutions from a wide range of the industry’s top software partners.

* Hyland joins the HP SBP program as a Platinum partner. HP will be selling Hyland’s solution OnBase, a comprehensive enterprise content management suite. The two companies will streamline processes by capturing electronic and paper-based documents, integrating that information into front- or back-end business applications, automating workflows and enabling instant access to data stored in OnBase’s secure and centrally managed repository.
* Nuance also joins the HP SBP program as a Platinum partner and offers a document capture solution at the scanning device that securely integrates with an intuitive user interface for performing on-demand capture tasks. HP will resell Nuance eCopy ShareScan.
* Omtool, a current member of the HP SBP program, is introducing new workflow components including Image-In Connect, Image-In Queue and AccuRoute Extensions for Microsoft SharePoint. With these HP and Omtool Document Capture and Workflow Solutions, documents can be integrated with line-of-business applications, managed personally in workflow queues and centrally stored.
* Hyland, Nuance and Omtool will support HP Open Extensibility Platform (OXPd 1.6).

HP also has enhanced HP Access Control with new features, including opt in/out rules, global settings and upgrades to critical backup configurations, sorting and reporting. The solution delivers print authentication, auditing, authorization, accounting and secure pull printing functionality for enterprises.

HP innovation for industries

HP innovates to meet the unique business needs of key industry segments. Seven of the top 10 healthcare companies are HP imaging and printing solutions customers. New enterprise healthcare solutions include:

* HP Distributed Workflow Solution for Healthcare, in conjunction with Hyland Software, streamlines and automates paper-based processes to ensure accurate document capture and provide immediate access to those assets across an organization.
* HP Exstream for Healthcare Providers enables providers to reduce hospital readmissions with personalized, easy-to-understand patient communications. Delivered in the patient’s preferred language, delivery channel and format, these clear, customized communications can help reduce readmission.

Eight of the top 10 financial services companies in the Americas are HP Managed Print Services (MPS) or solutions customers.

HP Loan Origination Accelerator automates the document management element of the loan origination process, shortening cycle times, advancing straight-through processing, providing more transparency and improving the overall customer experience

HP also enhanced its HP MPS Multi-vendor Services and HP Universal Print Driver (UPD) 5.3.

HP additionally announced the HP Exstream Makeover: Customer Communications Edition, where enterprise customers can enter to win a $500,000 software and services package to help improve the quality and efficiency of their customer communications activities.

Devices that deliver results and reduce costs

HP’s robust device portfolio now includes two new networked HP LaserJet MFPs that provide SMB and enterprise customers features such as HP ePrint to streamline workflows. HP FutureSmart firmware dramatically improves fleet management through a single consistent code base that allows new features to be added to an entire fleet via firmware updates. These updates can save money by increasing the functionality of an existing printer fleet and delivering a foundation for next-generation, web-connected capabilities.

* HP LaserJet Enterprise M4555 MFP series – A secure, easy-to-use mono MFP designed to help businesses increase efficiency and improve document workflow. The device features several enterprise tools, including HP Web Jetadmin for monitoring and management, HP FutureSmart firmware and HP’s Open Extensibility Platform to simplify the development and deployment of HP and third-party solutions. This product is currently available in certain regions including the United States and Canada.
* HP LaserJet Pro M1217nfw MFP – HP’s most affordable wireless LaserJet MFP includes print, scan, fax and copy functionality, as well as Ethernet and wireless networking standard. This new product also features innovative technologies such as HP Smart Install, which enables CD-free driver installations in as fast as five minutes, and HP Auto On, Auto Off.

Additional information about HP’s new imaging and printing solutions and devices is available at www.hp.com/go/businessprinting2011.

Original Source: HP Enhances Office Productivity with New Workflow Solutions

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Epson Stylus Pro 7700 and 9700 Printers Now Available Through Professional Imaging Resellers

2011-05-02T04:49:00.000-07:00

Epson America, Inc. is expanding its sales of Epson Stylus® Pro 700-series printers to a broader range of professional imaging markets. The Epson Stylus Pro 7700 and 9700 are now available through authorized Epson Resellers. Both of these printers are engineered to exceed the expectations of professionals who produce corporate graphics, imposition proofs, company signs and banners, indoor tradeshow displays, and more.

"The expansion of these products into new markets is very good news for both Epson resellers and their customers," said Reed Hecht, product manager, Epson America, Inc. "The Epson Stylus Pro 7700 and 9700 give customers an incredible combination of speed, brilliant color, reliable performance, and image quality that's superior to most other printers being used by corporate graphics and signage professionals today. The list of technological advancements that Epson engineers have incorporated into these printers is impressive, but equally important is that the products are very easy to use."

The Epson Stylus Pro 7700 (24-inch) and 9700 (44-inch) incorporate the company's latest achievements in high-performance ink jet printing. Epson's unique MicroPiezo® TFP™ print heads help produce stunning photographic images and extremely precise text and line art at speeds that nearly double that of Epson's previous generation printers. Image quality is further enhanced by Epson UltraChrome Vivid Magenta inks and dual black printing. This pigment-based ink technology enables prints to attain true archival permanence on a wide range of media types.

The Epson Stylus Pro 7700 and 9700 are currently available for suggested retail prices of $2,995 and $4,995, respectively. For additional information, visit www.proimaging.epson.com.

Original Source: Epson Stylus Pro 7700 and 9700 Printers Now Available Through Professional Imaging Resellers

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HP Warns Distributors That Japanese Earthquake Will Impact Toner Cartridge Availability

2011-04-28T06:51:00.000-07:00

U.S.-based Hewlett Packard / HP has long relied on Japan-based Canon to manufacture its toner cartridges and laser printers, leaving HP particularly susceptible to any shortages resulting from the Japanese earthquake.

When parts of Japan were devastated by a terrible earthquake on March 11 2011, there seemed little doubt that the printer and supplies industry would be seriously impacted and there would be shortages of some key products. Now, it seems that the industry’s top vendor, HP, which is dependent on Canon for production of laser printers and MFPs and toner cartridges, has sent a letter to various partners indicating that it is concerned about the future availability of certain toner cartridges and LaserJet devices. HP has warned its partners that in response to potential shortages it is restricting distribution of some toner cartridges. There are several affected toner cartridges, listed below:

* C4127A (HP 27A black toner) used in LaserJet 4000 series
* C8061D (HP 61X black toner dual pack) used in LaserJet 4100 series
* C8061X (HP 61X black toner) used in LaserJet 4100 series
* C9730A (HP 645A black toner) used in Color LaserJet 5500 series
* C9733A (HP 645A magenta toner) used in Color LaserJet 5500 series
* CB382A (yellow toner) used in Color LaserJet CP6015, CM6030, CM6040 series
* CB385A (cyan drum) used in Color LaserJet CP6015, CM6030, CM6040 series
* CB387A (magenta drum) used in Color LaserJet CP6015, CM6030, CM6040 series
* CB390A (black toner) used in Color LaserJet CM6030, CM6040 series
* CB540A (HP 125A black toner) used in Color LaserJet CP1215, CP1515, CP1518, CM1312
* CB541A (HP 125A cyan toner) used in Color LaserJet CP1215, CP1515, CP1518, CM1312
* CB542A (HP 125A yellow toner) used in Color LaserJet CP1215, CP1515, CP1518, CM1312
* CB543A (HP 125A magenta toner) used in Color LaserJet CP1215, CP1515, CP1518, CM1312
* CE259A (pack of cyan, yellow, magenta) used in Color LaserJet CP1215, CP1515, CP1518, CM1312
* CC364A (HP 64A black toner) used in LaserJet P4014, P4015, P4515 series
* CC364X (HP 64X black toner) used in LaserJet P4015, P4515 series
* CC364XD (HP 64X black toner dual pack) used in LaserJet P4015, P4515 series
* CC530A (black toner) used in Color LaserJet CP2025, CM2320 series
* CC530AD (black toner dual pack) used in Color LaserJet CP2025, CM2320 series
* CC531A (cyan toner) used in Color LaserJet CP2025, CM2320 series
* CC532A (yellow toner) used in Color LaserJet CP2025, CM2320 series
* CC533A (magenta toner) used in Color LaserJet CP2025, CM2320 series
* CE250A (black toner) used in Color LaserJet CP3525, CM3530 series
* CE250X (black toner) used in Color LaserJet CP3525, CM3530 series
* CE251A (cyan toner) used in Color LaserJet CP3525, CM3530 series
* CE252A (yellow toner) used in Color LaserJet CP3525, CM3530 series
* CE253A (magenta toner) used in Color LaserJet CP3525, CM3530 series
* CE255A (HP 55A black toner) used in LaserJet P3015 series
* CE255X (HP 55X black toner) used in LaserJet P3015 series
* CE260A (black toner) used in Color LaserJet CP4025, CP4525 series
* CE263A (magenta toner) used in Color LaserJet CP4025, CP4525 series
* CE278A (HP 78A black toner) used in LaserJet Pro P1606
* CE285A (HP 85A black toner) used in LaserJet Pro P1102w, Pro M1212nf
* CE314A (HP 126A drum) used in LaserJet Pro CP1025nw
* Q1338A (HP 38A black toner) used in LaserJet 4200 series
* Q1338D (HP 38A black toner dual pack) used in LaserJet 4200 series
* Q1339A (HP 39A black toner) used in LaserJet 4300 series
* Q2610A (HP 10A black toner) used in LaserJet 2300 series
* Q5942A (HP 42A black toner) used in LaserJet 4240, 4250, 4350 series
* Q5945A (HP 45A black toner) used in LaserJet M4345 series
* Q5949A (HP 49A black toner) used in LaserJet 1160, 1320, 3390 series
* Q5949X (HP 49X black toner) used in LaserJet 1320, 3390 series
* Q5949XD (HP 49X black toner dual pack) used in LaserJet 1320, 3390 series
* Q6460A (black toner) used in Color LaserJet 4730, CM4730 series
* Q6463A (magenta toner) used in Color LaserJet 4730, CM4730 series
* Q7553A (HP 53A black toner) used in LaserJet P2015 series, M2727nf
* Q7553X (HP 53X black toner) used in LaserJet P2015 series, M2727nf
* Q7553XD (HP 53X black toner dual pack) used in LaserJet P2015 series, M2727nf
* Q7581A (cyan toner) used in Color LaserJet CP3505, 3800 series
* Q7582A (yellow toner) used in Color LaserJet CP3505, 3800 series
* Q7583A (magenta toner) used in Color LaserJet CP3505, 3800 series

HP has been experiencing shortages of the HP CE285A (or 85A) toner cartridge for months now, and just before the earthquake struck, we had heard that another SKU, the CE278A (or 78A), was in short supply. Canon had problems in ramping up production to meet demand for certain HP toner SKUs before the disaster in Japan, and now the firm obviously faces an even bigger challenge. Some of its manufacturing facilities have been offline for weeks, and transportation systems and other key infrastructure in Japan have been disrupted. Although more manufacturing facilities in Japan are coming back online, all it takes is a disruption somewhere in the supply chain, a shortage of a crucial component in a toner cartridge or laser printer, to impact Canon’s ability to manufacture finished SKUs. HP is obviously expecting to see some shortages and is taking the necessary steps to limit their impact by rationing distribution of some toner cartridges.

We expect to hear more such news in the weeks ahead. As shortages occur, the law of supply and demand would seem to dictate that price increases will follow. We have an in-depth update on the crisis in Japan and its impact on the printer and supplies industry in the works.

Original Source: HP Warns Distributors That Japanese Earthquake Will Impact Toner Cartridge Availability

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Xerox Helps Print Providers Capture New Business in Billion Dollar Photo Applications Market

2011-04-11T06:39:00.000-07:00

A new ink from Xerox Corporation (NYSE: XRX) will make it easier for print providers to produce high-revenue, offset-quality photo applications.

Xerox’s new matte dry ink is designed for a range of print jobs, including the photo products consumers are demanding. According to InfoTrends, photo applications such as books, greeting cards and calendars are projected to be a $2.2 billion market by 2014.

The ink is available on the Xerox iGen4® EXP, the latest model built on the award-winning Xerox iGen4 platform.

“Print providers can push the boundaries of digital production with this ink,” said Eric Armour, president, Graphic Communications Business Group, Xerox Corporation. “By adding matte dry ink to the Xerox iGen4 EXP they receive the advantages of high-volume digital printing – such as personalization and automation – as well as image quality that’s virtually indistinguishable from offset.”

The ink provides a consistent and uniform appearance across highlights, mid-tones and shadows – critical for ink-heavy applications such as marketing collateral, collages in photo books and full-page photographs for calendars and greeting cards. It also produces authentic skin tones and natural colors while maintaining fine detail in background images.

Swiss-based Ifolor AG uses Xerox’s matte dry ink for digital photos and greeting cards, as well as specialty items including posters, photo books, writing pads and calendars. “We demand quality. With the iGen4 EXP’s productivity, combined with the new ink, we print high-volume, color-rich applications in minutes,” said Markus Wirth, chief executive officer, Ifolor AG.

The iGen4 EXP offers more image area than competitive devices – translating to more sellable output and increased profits. The solution leverages Xerox FreeFlow® Digital Workflow Collection, along with software and finishing options from Xerox business partners, to streamline and synchronize the production process as needed.

Original Source: Xerox Helps Print Providers Capture New Business in Billion Dollar Photo Applications Market

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Lexmark promotes advances in educational achievement through community contributions

2011-04-04T05:11:00.000-07:00

In conjunction with its 20-year anniversary, Lexmark International, Inc. (NYSE: LXK) announced an education initiative to promote math and science achievement in several local communities where Lexmark operates. The nearly $1.7 million in planned investments will advance science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education.

The company's corporate philanthropic focus is on education, with a specific emphasis on science, technology, engineering and math – the foundational studies that technology and engineering-based companies like Lexmark are built upon.

At the latest Community Day event at its corporate headquarters, Lexmark informed local community leaders that it plans to contribute up to $1 million to the University of Kentucky (UK) to support STEM efforts in the Commonwealth. The funds will be used to renovate and equip UK's STEM outreach center for P-20 (pre-school through graduate studies) math and science educators and students.

Lexmark also plans to contribute up to $300,000 to Fayette County Public Schools in Lexington, Ky., to fund the purchase of laboratory equipment for its 12 middle schools, a critical need to support STEM resources at this educational level.

Also announced as part of Lexmark's investment:
* A $250,000 planned endowment to the University of Colorado, establishing a scholarship fund for students in the College of Engineering & Applied Science. The scholarship recognizes Paul J. Curlander, Lexmark's executive chairman and chairman of the board of directors, for his many years of service to Lexmark.
* A $100,000 planned donation to a local magnet high school in Cebu, Philippines, to create the Lexmark Science and eResearch Lab, which will focus on technology research and education.
* A teacher recognition program to highlight and reward outstanding science, technology and math teachers. Lexmark will model its program after a successful Perceptive Software recognition program in Kansas, and extend it to Kentucky, Colorado and the Philippines. Selected teachers will receive a $1,000 cash award to further math and science education in their classrooms.

Supporting Quotes:

"Whether it's through volunteer hours, monetary contributions or in-kind donations, we believe it's imperative to give back to the communities that have long shown their support to Lexmark," said Paul Rooke, Lexmark president and chief executive officer. "Not only are we committed to recognizing educators and enriching the lives of students in the areas of STEM, we are focused on building the pipeline of future engineers and innovators that enable companies like Lexmark to succeed in today's competitive and fast-moving technology marketplace."

"Lexmark and the University of Kentucky share a commitment to education in science, technology, engineering and math," said UK President Lee T. Todd Jr. "This generous gift will help to ensure our ongoing support of educational excellence at all levels for these important disciplines that fuel innovation and a brighter future for the Commonwealth."

"The renovated building will house a training facility to provide professional development to Kentucky science and math teachers, a new lab for fieldwork-based ecology education, and a shared meeting room for community outreach," said UK Provost Kumble Subbaswamy. "Our math and science outreach operations will benefit from much-needed storage and work space, as well as a large area to assemble the educational materials that help science teachers encourage inquiry-based learning among Kentucky students."

"Lexmark has been a great corporate citizen for this community for many years, and this is one more example of their outstanding support for education," said Fayette County Schools Superintendent Stu Silberman. "This gift will enhance our middle school science programs and help to further engage our students in the STEM areas. On behalf of our kids, we are extremely thankful."

Original Source: Lexmark promotes advances in educational achievement through community contributions

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OEMs Suspend Plant Operations in Japan

2011-03-28T07:36:00.001-07:00

Due to the devastating earthquake and tsunami that hit northern Japan on Friday, March 11, many OEMs have reported damages to their plants in the area and have suspended operations.

Canon reported significant damages to multiple plants, including an inkjet printer manufacturing plant, and 15 employee casualties. So far, the company has suspended eight of its facilities. Although Canon has not specified which plants would be suspended and which would resume, the company has reported that it will consider using undamaged alternate sites in order to continue production.

Canon set up an Earthquake Disaster Recovery Task Force, which will draft a recovery plan. The company is also making a donation of 300 million yen (US $3.22 million) to the Japanese Red Cross Society.

Seiko Epson also reported damages to several plans and companies in the Tohoku areas. No employees were hurt in the earthquake or tsunami.

While the safety and whereabouts of all employees of Kyocera Mita have been confirmed, the company has suspended production at two its facilities due to damages. Seven of the company’s plants are reported to resume production soon.

According to Industry Pulse News, Brother, Fuji Xerox, Konica Minolta, Ricoh and Toshiba did not suffer any damages or employee casualties, but each OEM is donating between US$600,000 to US$3 million to relief efforts.

Original Source: OEMs Suspend Plant Operations in Japan

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HP Introduces World’s First 42-inch High-speed Digital Color Press

2011-03-21T07:18:00.001-07:00

Hewlett Packard / HP recently introduced the graphic arts industry’s largest, most productive commercial digital color press, bringing the concept of mass customization to printing by combining the personalization features of digital printing with the efficiencies of high-volume production.

With its unmatched width and its 600-foot/minute (183-meter/minute) speed, the HP T400 Color Inkjet Web Press prints up to 5,200 full-color, letter-size pages per minute – 44 percent more than the closest solution from competing vendors.

HP unveiled the press at the offices of O’Neil Data Systems, a Los Angeles-based data-driven marketing communication firm that now uses all four systems in the HP inkjet web press portfolio – the HP T200, T300, T350 and the new T400.

HP also introduced several additional solutions, including an HP magnetic ink character recognition (MICR) system and third-party coated media, as well as workflow and finishing solutions from members of the HP Graphic Solutions Partner program. HP additionally is offering customers an option to upgrade HP T300 presses to the faster T350 platform.

“With more than 25 installations worldwide, our inkjet web press systems are changing the business dynamics of applications such as publishing, transpromo and direct mail,” said Christopher Morgan, senior vice president, Graphics Solutions Business, HP. “With the significant throughput capacity the new HP T400 offers, customers can now break into a world of true mass personalization and customization and take advantage of substantial new growth opportunities.”

High-quality imaging with new inks and printheads
The HP T400 offers high-quality imaging by reproducing sharp text and images, as well as uniform area fills. New HP A50 process-color inks work with new HP A10 printheads, which use HP Scalable Printing Technology in a compact, 1,200-nozzles-per-inch printhead design. New, advanced web tension controls and dryer systems provide reliable, fast and consistent productivity.

Users of standard-size (20.5-inch) digital web press finishing equipment can produce two jobs simultaneously on the HP T400, using an optional slitter at the end of the press to convert the roll into side-by-side webs. Scalable job impositioning tools for high-level prepress efficiency from Ultimate Technographics – a member of the HP Graphics Solutions Partner program – allow operators to impose separate variable-data jobs side by side on the web.

Other HP Graphics Solutions Partners, including finishing and paper transport system suppliers EMT, Magnum Digital Solutions, MBO and Muller Martini, are presenting solutions they offer to support the HP T400 platform. Additional industry suppliers, including CMC, Compart, GMC Software Technology, Hunkeler, Lasermax Roll Systems, Tecnau, Videk and WEKO, also are showcasing solutions for use with HP Inkjet Web Presses.

Pitney Bowes is highlighting high-volume transactional/transpromotional uses for a new HP Inkjet Web Press technology. The HP T400 will become part of a new IntelliJet 42 solution for transactional/transpromotional markets, extending the range of IntelliJet size and speed configurations.

“Pitney Bowes is delighted to be collaborating with HP to introduce this new solution to high-volume transactional mailers,” said Ramesh Ratan, president, Document Messaging Technologies, Pitney Bowes. “This is another example of how we are working together to create solutions that can help our customers deliver increased efficiency and productivity to generate more powerful and valuable customer communications.”

Scheduled to be available later this year, the HP T400 is part of a broader production printing portfolio that includes HP Indigo liquid electrophotographic imaging presses. With a global install base in excess of 5,000 presses, HP Indigo is a market leader in high-value, offset- and photo-quality digital printing.

Since introducing the first HP Inkjet Web Press in 2008, HP has continued to gain momentum in publishing, direct mail and transactional and transpromotional markets, with more than 1.46 billion pages produced on HP Inkjet Web Presses in 2010. HP is presently installing its first HP inkjet web press in Asia at book exporter CTPS’ plant in Dongguan, China.

“HP’s T400 is a powerful addition to the Inkjet Web Press family and extends it into unheard of ranges of digital print productivity,” said Jim Hamilton, group director of industry analyst firm InfoTrends. “These are revolutionary devices that compel marketers and content providers to re-imagine what can be accomplished with production digital print.”

World premiere at O’Neil Data Systems
O’Neil Data Systems is home to the first HP T400 press installation, making it the only customer facility to have all four HP Inkjet Web Press models. The company also uses HP Indigo Digital Presses to produce a variety of high-end jobs, including covers for Inkjet Web Press-printed publications. O’Neil Data Systems also uses HP Exstream customer communications management software to compose complex, variable-data document streams at full press speeds.

The company is using HP Exstream and the HP T400 press to produce MarketSmith, a personalized financial research publication delivered weekly.

”The HP T400 Color Inkjet Web Press truly is converging on offset speeds while providing the benefits of a digital printing environment,” said James Lucanish, president, O’Neil Data Systems.As with all HP Inkjet Web Press models, the HP T400 prints on virtually any standard uncoated or newsprint paper, as well as on a range of coated papers. HP announced the immediate availability of new 115 and 130 gsm Jaz coated papers from Sappi for use with HP Inkjet Web Presses. The papers are now available in Europe and the Asia Pacific region, with additional weights scheduled to be available there soon.

Launch of MICR printing solution for HP Inkjet Web Presses
MICR, a technology commonly used in checkbook printing, will soon be available for use in a wider variety of applications with the new MICR HP Inkjet Web Press solution. Available for order now with new HP T300 and T350 purchases, and scheduled to be available with T200 and T400 models sold later this year, the solution consists of new black MICR ink with a print bar that inserts into expansion slots on all HP Inkjet Web presses.

The HP Inkjet Web Press MICR solution enables direct and transactional mail printers to use only one pass to produce balance transfer check mailers, rebate check mailers and other popular direct mail products. This method avoids the significant document security and inventory storage demands with existing workflows, which require valuable MICR documents to be preprinted and then locked away, with additional finishing, inserting or full-color printing steps completed in subsequent steps just prior to mailing.

Original Source: HP Introduces World’s First 42-inch High-speed Digital Color Press

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Xerox to Stop Selling Wide-Format Products

2011-03-14T05:27:00.001-07:00

According to Scott Frame, vice president, Wide Format, Xerox Corporation, "Xerox will stop taking orders for wide-format products in the US and Canada in 2011, with specific timing based on inventory levels. Xerox’s European and Developing Market operations will continue selling wide-format products and will source new products.

"Xerox prioritizes each investment, allocating research and development dollars to areas where the company can deliver the best value to the marketplace. As a result of this practice, Xerox has opted to not invest in wide format product engineering in 2011.

"Customers will continue to have access to service support, supplies, media and parts from Xerox for their existing equipment for a minimum of five years from the last install of a particular product line. Customers with questions can contact their Xerox Account Manager."

Original Source: Xerox to Stop Selling Wide-Format Products US and Canada by the End of 2011

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OKI Introduces Bioplastic in Printers and MFPs Part

2011-03-07T08:05:00.001-08:00

OKI Data Corporation, an OKI Group company specializing in the printer business, announced it will introduce a bioplastic part consisting of at least 25% (by weight) of plant-based renewable biomass resources in all its printers and MFPs. Products manufactured from March 2011 onward will incorporate bioplastic, marking the first effort among OKI Group companies to use bioplastic in products.

OKI Data is currently active in 120 countries, selling approximately 1.1 million printers and MFPs annually. Its introduction of bioplastic is expected to reduce its annual CO2 emissions by three tons.

"Plant-based renewable bioplastics reduce environmental impact by reducing CO2 emissions and the petroleum resources consumed," said Harushige Sugimoto, President of OKI Data. "OKI Data is proactively developing products and technologies to reduce environmental impact. The company has long considered using bioplastic in its printers and MFPs. However, compared to traditional plastic, bioplastics offer formidable challenges in the areas of flame resistance, strength, heat resistance, and formability."

The bioplastic announced today is based on polyactic acid, a plant-based renewable resource. It offers enhanced flame resistance, strength, heat resistance, and formability, as well as high transparency and ease of processing, qualities that allow use of the product to form elements ranging from exterior components to mechanical parts. It is widely used in stationery, electrical home appliances, and office equipment. Cost competitiveness and the procurability of this bioplastic for overseas manufacturing facilities were key factors in its selection.

OKI Data is firmly committed to reducing its CO2 emissions, having set a goal to cut emissions by 6% relative to 2007 levels by 2012. Introducing bioplastics is one of the ways it intends to achieve this goal. Where possible, the company plans to replace traditional petroleum-derived plastics with plant-based renewable bioplastics in its future printers and MFPs.

Original Source: OKI Introduces Bioplastic in Printers and MFPs Part

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Canon U.S.A. Announces Two New imagePROGRAF Large Format Printers

2011-02-28T05:04:00.001-08:00

Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, have announced two new large format printers - the 44-inch imagePROGRAF iPF8300S and 24-inch imagePROGRAF iPF6300S. These two 8-color large format printers feature similar technology found in the award-winning 12-color iPF8300, iPF6350 and iPF6300 printers, including Canon's LUCIA EX ink set. These new additions to the imagePROGRAF lineup broaden Canon's offering to the graphics arts, photo and production markets by setting a new standard for the category by providing an optimal balance of high productivity and exceptional print quality. The new imagePROGRAF models were showcased at the Wedding & Portrait Photographer International (WPPI) Convention at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, February 21-23, 2011 in the Canon booth, number 401.

Outstanding Print Quality
With Canon LUCIA EX pigment ink, professionals can achieve high quality and performance in such printing applications as color or monochrome photography, industrial design and high-quality poster production. The new 8-color system, utilized by both models, covers a reproducible color gamut which has been expanded approximately 20-percent beyond previous S-series models. With its new pigment materials and structure, Canon's LUCIA EX ink set achieves greater shadow details, deeper black density and overall scratch resistance. This ink system works in conjunction with the high-density PF-05 print head featuring Canon's FINE (Full-photolithography Inkjet Nozzle Engineering) technology with 2,560 nozzles for each color: cyan, magenta, yellow, black, matte black, photo cyan, photo magenta and gray. An additional feature found in the new imagePROGRAF models is a built-in color calibration function which compensates for color variations caused by factors such as age and environmental affects, enabling consistent color representation across multiple large-format printers or when printing multiple copies.

"At Canon, we not only see the importance of providing the tools necessary for capturing an outstanding image but also having a high-quality machine to print the output," said Jim Rosetta, vice president and general manager, Imaging Systems Group, Canon U.S.A. "The addition of these new imagePROGRAF models further solidifies our position to providing high-quality machines that are easy to use and available at an affordable price."

Enhanced Productivity & Performance
Two important attributes users look for when making the decision to purchase a large format printer are high-quality output and overall speed. With new Fast and Economy print modes, speeds can be achieved up to twice as fast as current 8-color models, helping to enhance overall productivity while also reducing ink consumption by approximately 50 percent. The iPF8300S can produce a B0-sized (39.37" x 55.67") output in approximately 80 seconds while the iPF6300S can deliver an A1-sized (23.39" x 33.11") document in roughly 35 seconds. The new S-series printers have doubled their hard drive capacity compared to earlier models now with 160 GB, making it possible to reprint the required number of copies at any time with or without a computer.

These easy-to-use imagePROGRAF large format printers have been designed with the workflow of professionals in mind. Raster image processors (RIPs) from a variety of developers are supported for print proofing, design, commercial photographic printing and other applications. In addition, new printers can be introduced without altering the existing workflows with familiar RIPS. Verified RIP developers include CGS, EFI, GMG, ONYX, SAi and Wasatch.

When working on a project in the photo lab, studio or agency it is important to have images printed as good if not better than when first captured. Helping to make this process a little easier is the inclusion of a print Plug-In for Adobe Photoshop providing further support for the proofing, photo and 64-bit printing environment. When edited in Photoshop, 16-bit Adobe RGB images can be processed directly to the machines preserving the images wide gamut and smooth gradation. There is also a print plug-in provided for Digital Photo Professional allowing for direct printing of high-quality RAW images helping to preserve overall image quality. Additional software included in the box is Canon's Accounting Manager and PosterArtist Lite software.

The 44-inch Canon imagePROGRAF iPF8300S will have a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $4,995 while the 24-inch imagePROGRAF iPF6300S will have an MSRP of $2,995.* Both models are expected to begin shipping in April.

* Pricing subject to change at any time. Actual prices are determined by individual dealers and may vary.

Original Source: Canon U.S.A. Announces Two New imagePROGRAF Large Format Printers

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OKI Printing Solutions’ Newly Designed SIDM Printers Deliver Best-in-Class Speeds and High-Volume Versatility

2011-01-31T03:06:00.000-08:00

OKI Data Americas, which markets its products under the OKI® Printing Solutions brand, today announced the availability of the ML600 Series SIDM printers, including the dual 9-pin ML620/621 and 24-pin ML690/691. The ML600 Series is newly designed to offer the following improved features: new print-head delivering fastest-in-class print speeds of up to 700 cps, new front paper path, longer-life ribbon, lower stand-by power consumption and best in class MTBF (mean time between failures) at 25,000 hours. This improved feature set coupled with field-proven reliability help make OKI Printing Solutions’ MICROLINE printers the most widely-used impact printers in North America, and demonstrate the company’s continuing commitment to product innovation and satisfying the needs of its loyal customers.

The ML600 Series is designed to handle printing needs ranging from continuous multi-part forms output to fine business correspondence to point of sale. The new SIDM series is ideal in the most demanding environments in key industries such as healthcare, education, government, retail, hospitality, finance and insurance, and manufacturing and warehousing. The ML600 Series also produces letter-quality type and high-resolution graphics perfect for office and executive suite environments.

"OKI Printing Solutions recognizes that multi-part forms remain a critical printing application in many business environments and those customers require a fast, reliable and easy-to-use SIDM printer to deliver exceptional, worry-free performance,” said Nick Ciarlante, Director, Specialty Products for OKI Data Americas. “The new ML600 Series offers an improved feature set that reduces wasted time and user intervention, to deliver truly exceptional impact printing performance, backed by a three-year warranty for added reliability."

Starting at an affordable estimated street price of $420, the ML600 Series offers the following features and benefits:
* Best-in-class reliability rated at 25,000 hours MTBF for minimum downtime and maximum end-user productivity that’s 25% better than its closest competitor.
* New front paper path (tractor feed and friction feed) for use in environments where a rear or bottom feed is not a viable option.
* 400 million character print head life plus 3 year limited warranty with extensions for maximum durability and dependability.
* New, longer ribbon life of up to 13 million characters that helps eliminate the need for frequent ribbon changes and leads to increased productivity.
* New print head design that delivers fastest print speeds in its class in all available modes: Super speed draft (700 cps), High speed draft (600 cps), Near letter quality (113 cps) and Utility/draft (450 cps), delivering high quality output with barcode capability.
* Standard parallel and USB Interface plus optional Interfaces that provide future cost savings if systems requirements change.
* Crisp, clear printing output on letterhead or up to 7-part forms making it practical for both general business and various point-of-sale applications.
* ENERGY STAR® qualified with new lowstand-by power consumption.

OKI® Printing Solutions provides live, toll-free technical support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, with agents based in North America.

Original Source: OKI Printing Solutions’ Newly Designed SIDM Printers Deliver Best-in-Class Speeds and High-Volume Versatility

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Brother Expands its Line of Professional Inkjet All-in-One Multi-Function Machines

2011-01-24T03:23:00.000-08:00

Brother International Corporation, a leader in small business technology, announced its second generation of Professional Series inkjet all-in-one machines - MFC-J6510DW, MFC-J6710DW and MFC-J6910DW. This new Professional Series from Brother offers small business owners an opportunity to print, copy, scan and fax up to 11" x 17" – the first manufacturer to offer all four functionalities in this size at this price point.

These machines allow users to produce large (up to 11"x17"), impactful, easy-to-read documents, such as spreadsheets, floor plans, graphics or blueprints with ease. The new models offer several exciting value opportunities for small business owners, such as duplex (two-sided) printing to reduce paper consumption and Super High-Yield ink cartridges to save on replacement costs. To help owners maximize productivity, the machines also offer fast print speeds, an auto-document feeder and dual paper trays to increase total capacity up to 500 pages.

"Small businesses are a key asset in our current economy and it is to everyone's advantage to support them in any way possible – whether through patronage or by providing products to make their business more successful," said Small Business Professor® Bruce Freeman, author and columnist. "The new line of inkjet all-in-ones from Brother provides small business owners with the ability to increase their productivity and produce high-quality materials."

All of the models will be compatible with the free downloadable Brother® iPrint&Scan app by April 2011, which allows wireless printing from or scanning to an Apple® mobile device or Android TM Smartphone. These features are ideal for mobile work environments that need access to detailed, high-impact images on the go, such as real estate agents, caterers and architects.

"We know small business professionals are looking for powerful business solutions that allow them to compete at their best in a competitive marketplace. The Brother Professional Series delivers a variety of powerful business features including a unique 11" x 17" document scan glass that meet that need," said Marie Le, Brother Senior Marketing Manager for Inkjet Products. "These new models offer the opportunity to be more independent and creative but also come at a great value."

The new Brother Professional Series MFC-J6510DW and MFC-J6710DW will be available at national office superstores, retailers, dealers and online resellers starting in January 2011, the MFC-J6910DW in March 2011.

New Brother Inkjet All-In-One Models
New Models: MFC-J6510DW, MFC-J6710DW, MFC-J6910DW

MFC-J6510DW
* Fast print speeds:
* - up to 35 ppm black and 27 ppm color (Fast mode)
* - up to 12 ppm black and 10 ppm color (ISO standard)
* Easy scanning and copying up to 11"x17" (ledger-size) on the large scan glass
* Duplex printing for creating two-sided documents up to 11"x17"
* Easy to setup wireless (802.11b/g/n) or wired Ethernet networking
* 3.3" Widescreen color LCD display for easy to use menu navigation
* Powerful scanning software and ability to scan directly to your media cards
* Uses Super High-Yield (XXL series) replacement ink cartridges approx. 2,400 pages (black) and 1,200 pages (color)
* Unattended fax, copy or scan using up to 35-page Auto Document Feeder
* Large 250-sheet paper tray capacity
* Estimated Street Price: $249

MFC-J6710DW key features:
All the features of the MFC-J6510DW, plus:
* Dual paper trays (up to 250 sheets each) for total capacity of 500 sheets
* 3-year limited warranty
* Estimated Street Price: $299

MFC-J6910DW key features:
All the features of the MFC-J6710DW, plus:
* Duplex (two-sided) scanning, copying, and faxing up to 8.5"x14" (legal-size)
* 3.3" Touchscreen LCD display
* Estimated Street Price: $349

Original Source: Brother Expands its Line of Professional Inkjet All-in-One Multi-Function Machines With Unique 11"x17" Document Scan Glass Feature

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Epson Announces the World’s Fastest Automatic Double-Sided Printing Solutions

2011-01-17T05:31:00.000-08:00

Epson America, Inc., a leading provider of superior performing printing solutions, introduced the Epson WorkForce® 840 all-in-one and the Epson WorkForce 60 printer, the World’s fastest automatic double-sided printing1 solutions for high print volume small offices and micro businesses.

Epson’s Premier High Productivity All-in-One Printer for the Busy Small Office

The WorkForce 840 is the ideal printing solution for high print volume, multi-tasking environments that require maximum speed and flexibility. It provides businesses with high performance and productivity features including blazingly fast single- and double-sided print speeds – 15 ISO ppm black and 9.3 ISO ppm color single-sided; 7.4 ISO ppm black and 5.4 ISO ppm color two-sided. The WorkForce 840 also includes a 500-sheet input capacity to load a full ream of paper, and ships with Extra-High Capacity ink cartridges capable of printing up to 1,000 sheets.

The WorkForce 840 offers a smart, easy-to-use 7.8” touch control panel with a large 3.5” high resolution color LCD to quickly access all printer functions, a built-in two-sided 30-page Automatic Document Feeder to copy, scan and fax two-sided documents, and built-in memory card slots and USB drive port. Engineered for space efficiency, its industrial design is 32 percent smaller than the leading competitor.

Several WorkForce 840 features provide business users with environmental and cost-saving benefits, including:
* Auto duplex scanning, copying and printing – saves up to 50 percent of paper supply
* Scan-to-PDF, -PC and -email – for archiving documents and images digitally
* Printing or copying multiple pages on one sheet – saves up to 75 percent of paper supply
* Uses up to 70 percent less power than laser printers, saving energy and money

“The WorkForce 840 and Workforce 60 models were developed with the business user in mind, and expands Epson’s already robust line of business ink jet printers and all-in-ones,” said Rodrigo Catalan, product manager, Business Ink Jets, Epson America, Inc. “We understand that small and home-based offices with high print volume needs require a fast, reliable, and easy-to-operate printing solution that is cost-effective and produces top-quality output, and these models deliver on all fronts.”

Built for Business – Epson WorkForce 60 Printer

The WorkForce 60 delivers fast single- and double-sided print speeds – 15 ISO ppm black and 7.1 ISO ppm color single-sided; 7.4 ISO ppm black and 4.7 ISO ppm color two-sided2 – to help keep businesses running at full speed. Packaged in a sleek industrial design, it also includes a 250-sheet input capacity, and provides a reliable solution to small business owners that require professional looking prints in high volume.

Additional Features of the WorkForce 840 and 60:
* Built-in Wi-Fi® and Ethernet compatible for network printing with the latest routers available
* Epson exclusive instant-dry DURABrite® Ultra inks for fade, smudge- and water-resistant prints
* Direct printing from mobile devices5
* Individual ink cartridges for replacing only the color that is needed
* Instant-drying inks to immediately touch laser quality documents and photos
* ENERGY STAR® qualified and RoHS compliant to help preserve the environment
* Designed to be recycled
* Epson MicroPiezo® print head technology with smart nozzles delivers ink droplets in as many as three sizes, some as small as three picoliters, delivering sharp, laser-like quality text while optimizing print speeds

Pricing and Availability
The Epson WorkForce 840 ($299.99), will be available in January through major computer, office and electronic superstores, a variety of retail stores nationwide, mail order, PC manufacturers, the Internet, and the Epson Store, www.epsonstore.com. The Epson WorkForce 60 ($129.99) will be available in January through the Internet and Epson’s own retail site. For more information, please visit www.epson.com.

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Samsung Mobile Printing Solution makes printing truly mobile

2011-01-10T07:04:00.000-08:00

Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., a global leader in consumer electronics and information technology, today announced the Samsung MobilePrint app, a mobile printing solution, at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. The application can be installed on Android and iOS smart phones and tablets, enabling consumers to connect directly to Samsung wireless printers via Wi-Fi or network link. Users can then print photos, PDFs and web pages directly from their devices. The solution also enables lightning-fast scanning to a mobile phone.

“Samsung has quickly become a recognized brand in the global printing industry through the launch of its affordable, user-friendly products for the office and home,” said Seongwoo Nam, executive vice president and Head of the IT Solutions Business at Samsung Electronics. “This solution delivers the next generation in seamless convenience, building on Samsung’s heritage in the consumer electronics business and experience with connectivity. The mobile phone is a consumer’s constant companion; we’ve now expanded its everyday functionality into a whole new realm.”

Seamless connections
The Samsung MobilePrint app works with a Wi-Fi or network connection and requires no driver installation or network configuration. The application is available on Android smartphones, Android tablets and iOS based devices; it can be downloaded from the relevant application store or marketplace. Immediately after downloading, users can enjoy instant connectivity and printing from their devices. For added convenience, the application will even auto-detect Samsung printers in the area.

Printing on-the-go
The Samsung MobilePrint app brings a whole new dimension to mobile photography. With iOS devices, photos can be printed directly from the device’s photo album or even from the camera. Android users can print multiple images at once through the device’s gallery.
For mobile workers, the Samsung MobilePrint app enables last-minute printing of e-tickets or flight confirmations, saving valuable time on-the-go. For convenient document management, the Samsung MobilePrint application also allows file sharing on iOS devices and Android users can print PDF files saved on the device’s SD card.

Scanning to your mobile
The Samsung MobilePrint app allows users to receive and edit documents scanned on Samsung printers. Simply capture documents on a Samsung multi-function printer (MFP) and send to a compatible device for quick and easy viewing. The solution then allows users the flexibility to adjust the quality of the scanned image, change the file type, or choose between color and black-and-white scans.

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Kodak’s Security Solutions Group Announces New Agreement with Document Security Systems, Inc

2010-12-20T03:50:00.000-08:00

Eastman Kodak Company (NYSE: EK), and Document Security Systems, Inc., a leader in optical deterrent technologies announced that the two companies have entered into an agreement to introduce applications which will enable a broad range of industries and governments to combat the increasingly damaging effects of counterfeiting and brand fraud.

Utilizing DSS’s Authentiguard® document security and counterfeiting prevention software and printing systems and Kodak’s leading imaging technology, Kodak will market a proprietary suite of secure image technology products under its own brand.

“To stop today’s sophisticated counterfeiters, brand owners and authorities need the support of global partners with the solution portfolio breadth, advanced technology and resources to help them execute optimal brand and document protection strategies,” said Robert Taylor, General Manager, Security Solutions, Business Solutions and Services, Eastman Kodak Company. “Document Security Systems’ cutting-edge secure image technologies combine with Kodak’s expanding security portfolio to create a wide range of product and document security solutions that will allow brand owners to create effective strategies for their anti-counterfeiting and anti-diversion challenges.”

The agreement covers a broad range of applications, some of which include:
* Security Printing Technologies for vital records, coupons, gift certificates, transcripts, car titles, text books, checks, prescription forms, permits.
* Digital Security for digital presses, securing internet-generated documents and alpha/numeric MICROSOFT OFFICE Applications, data/file security for OUTLOOK e-mails, EXCEL Spreadsheets, POWERPOINT Presentations and WORD Documents.
* Plastic Substrate Security for ID cards, drivers’ licenses, gift cards, access cards, containing radio frequency identification (RFID), biometrics, barcodes, magnetic stripe, holographs and plastic watermarks.
* Packaging and Label Security Technologies for consumer products, food and beverage materials, pharmaceutical, anything requiring a package or label.

Patrick White, CEO of Document Security Systems states: “We are extremely pleased and honored to be working with such a respected and well-known company as Kodak in the fight against the enormous, and growing, worldwide problem of counterfeiting, identity theft and brand fraud. Counterfeiting alone costs the U.S. economy billions of dollars a year and we feel that in teaming with Kodak, we will be able to offer solutions to protect consumers, governments and industrial commerce alike.”

Original source: Kodak’s Security Solutions Group Announces New Agreement with Document Security Systems, Inc.

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Konica Minolta Launches Clean Planet Recycling Program

2010-12-06T04:37:00.001-08:00

Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta) announced the launch of the Konica Minolta Clean Planet Recycling Program that will provide easy and cost-free consumables recycling to all customers.

Whether relying on a single desktop printer, a complete fleet of bizhub MFPs, or professional bizhub PRO or bizhub PRESS production print system, customers can help reduce their ecological footprint with the Clean Planet Recycling Program's streamlined return and recycle process.

Konica Minolta has designed technologies with the environment in mind - saving energy, minimizing pollution and reducing environmental impact through the entire life cycle of its products. With the Clean Planet Recycling Program, customers will now be able to return and recycle all major consumables - including toner cartridges, imaging units, waste toner bottles, developer/developer units and drums - for all Konica Minolta models without any shipping or processing costs.

Konica Minolta's Clean Planet Recycling Program also ensures that received recyclables are processed in an environmentally safe and responsible manner - no recyclable items are permitted to go into landfills.

"Konica Minolta invested heavily in developing this program to ensure it would bring only the highest value to our customers, and we are excited to launch it as a critical part of our corporate environmental initiatives," said Kevin Kern, senior vice president, marketing, Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. "The Clean Planet Recycling Program seeks to ensure that we are not only addressing the environmental concerns of our customers, but also meeting Konica Minolta's responsibilities for global sustainability. While delivering market-leading products and solutions is an ongoing commitment to customers, this new initiative ensures that customers can now count on Konica Minolta for much more than just their digital imaging needs."

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Original source: Konica Minolta Launches Clean Planet Recycling Program

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Toshiba Color MFPs Recognized as Some of the Best in the Industry

2010-11-29T03:52:00.000-08:00

Toshiba America Business Solutions Inc. (TABS) color multi-function printers (MFPs) received multiple honors in The Office Products Analyst 2010 Color Dealer Product Study, including "Best Overall" (tied for first place). Additionally, Toshiba was rated "Best" in six product sub-categories including: Color Resolution, Color Fidelity, Overall Image Quality, B/W Cost per Page, Controller Reliability and Scanning Reliability. Toshiba also secured "Best Overall" for Service Support, as well as "Best" in four of the Service Support sub-categories including: Order Processing, Ease of Network Installation, Color Service Training Program, and Effectiveness of Service Hotline.

"We're very happy that our dealers continue to express that Toshiba color products are among the best in the industry," said Joseph Contreras, director, product and solutions marketing, TABS. "It's also equally important to us that they feel they are receiving the support they need. Our goal is to help them be successful by providing not only outstanding state-of-the-art technology and products, but superior service as well, and this survey indicates that we are meeting that goal."

The Office Product Analyst Survey

The Office Products Analyst conducts an annual dealer survey to determine ratings and rankings of current market offerings. The 2010 dealer survey is based on in-depth telephone interviews with 177 service managers in copy dealerships nationwide who are asked to rate MFPs that they sell and service on a scale of one to ten (ten being the highest) within a number of categories. Those 177 dealerships represented 22,335 multi-functional color units on the market.

About Toshiba America Business Solutions Inc.

Toshiba America Business Solutions Inc. (TABS) is an independent operating company of Toshiba Corporation, the seventh largest electronics/electrical equipment company in the world. TABS manages product planning, marketing, sales, service support and distribution of copiers, facsimiles, multifunction printing products, network controllers, and toner products throughout the United States, Mexico, Brazil, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., TABS has five divisions: the Electronic Imaging Division; the Toner Products Division; the Document Solutions Engineering Division; the International Division; and Toshiba Business Solutions (TBS), a wholly-owned subsidiary corporation of TABS, that operates a network of wholly-owned office equipment dealers throughout the United States.

Named the most favored manufacturer ten times by the Business Technology Association (BTA), Toshiba's entire product line, customer support and marketing distribution policies are markers for the industry. For more information on Toshiba products, programs, solutions and services, please visit: www.copiers.toshiba.com

Original source: DEALERS NATIONWIDE RECOGNIZE TOSHIBA COLOR MFPS AS SOME OF THE BEST COLOR PRODUCTS IN THE INDUSTRY

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Epson Offers Tips for Printing Memorable Large Format Photos as One-of-a-Kind Holiday Gifts

2010-11-22T04:48:00.000-08:00

Few gifts touch the heart like an oversized photo of loved ones, close friends, or special places and events. And with tens of millions of digital SLR and high megapixel point-and-shoot cameras in homes across the world, more people than ever can consider giving one-of-a-kind, truly personal gifts this holiday season.

Printing large format photos – bigger than 8”x10” – is no longer just the domain of the professional photographer, as professional caliber printers like the Epson Stylus Photo R1900 wide-format printer are becoming increasingly popular with the average digital photography hobbyist. Epson R1900 delivers vibrant photos up to 13-inches wide and 44-inches long, and offers the highest level of media versatility of any printer in its class.

“Giving one of your photos in the form of a large format print with stunning image quality that will last for decades is as unique and personal a gift as there is,” said Richard Day, product manager, Epson America. “In addition, if there’s someone special on your holiday gift list who’s already invested in a DSLR, chances are a new high-quality large format photo printer is already at the top of their wish list.”

If you are new to large format photo printing, Epson suggests you keep the following tips in mind to ensure the best possible output:
* Digital Image Size: In order to get a high quality enlargement, make sure your file is your final print size with at least 180 ppi (pixels per inch) resolution (300-360 ppi is ideal). For example, if you want to print an 11” x 14” picture at 180 ppi, you will need a file that is 1980 x 2520 pixels or five megapixels. It’s important not to resample the image to make it bigger as you will get a blurry or pixilated image.
* Color: It’s easy to get caught up in complex color adjustments, when all you want is a beautiful print. One of the best ways to get a great looking print from the Epson R1900 is to use one of the Advanced color modes. In the printer driver’s “Advanced” tab, try changing the “Epson Standard” setting to “Adobe RGB” mode for more vibrant and colorful output.
* Media Type: Using Genuine Epson papers, such as Signature Worthy fine art papers can add sophistication and depth to your images.
* Framing & Matting: When you’re getting a print professionally framed, make sure the print has had at least a day to cure prior to framing for maximum durability. In addition, printing with at least a half-inch to an inch margin around the edges gives the framer space to work with and leaves the entire image intact. Providing two prints also gives your framer a safety net for anything unexpected that may happen during the matting and framing process.
* Creativity: Using more than one media type for your print is a great way to make a one-of-a-kind keepsake. For example, try printing a background on canvas, starting with a group photograph and have it framed without glass. Then add on layers of cropped glossy photos and other embellishments for a true memento.

Original source: Epson Offers Tips for Printing Memorable Large Format Photos as One-of-a-Kind Holiday Gifts

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Canon USA And The Arbor Day Foundation Plant More Than 38,000 Trees In 2010

2010-11-15T05:57:00.000-08:00

Continuing its long-standing commitment to environmental sustainability, Canon USA, Inc. along with the Arbor Day Foundation, announced that this year's Canon Forest Program has planted more than 38,000 trees nationwide and more than 85,000 trees since the program's inception in 2008. Commencing earlier this year and spanning across several product lines, Canon agreed to plant a tree in the nation's forests for every five Canon Generation Green Products registered on the Canon USA website.

As a result of this program, Canon U.S.A. will also be extending its Canon Forest Program to include the imageRunner Advance Series. Through this program extension, Canon U.S.A. will make a donation to the Arbor Day Foundation to plant one tree for every qualified Canon imageRunner Advance Series model sold through December 31, 2010. Introduced in 2009, imageRunner Advance Series incorporates an array of environmentally conscious features such as bio-based plastic components and lead-free parts, which help to dramatically reduce CO2 emissions over the entire product lifecycle.

"This year's program has exceeded expectations and we are excited to continue our relationship with the Arbor Day Foundation," said Bunji Yano, senior director and general manager, Corporate Communications, Canon U.S.A. "Canon has a long-standing history of environmental preservation and stewardship and the success of this year's initiative further underscores Canon's commitment to being part of the solution when it comes to protecting our natural resources."

The products that are part of Canon's Generation Green Program feature paper-saving technology and energy-saving measures, as well as minimal product packaging, all contributing to the overall sustainability of the environment. For more information on Canon U.S.A. Generation Green initiatives, please visit www.usa.canon.com/green.

In addition to Generation Green, Canon U.S.A. protects future generations by helping to preserve nature's most valuable resources through the support of a wide range of environmental education and conservation initiatives, including the Canon Envirothon, one of North America's largest high school environmental education competitions; the PBS NATURE series; and scientific research and educational programs at Yellowstone National Park. Canon also established its Toner Cartridge Return Program in 1990. To date, more than 150,000 tons of toner cartridges have been diverted from landfills. For more information, visit www.usa.canon.com/environment

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Original source: Canon USA And The Arbor Day Foundation Plant More Than 38,000 Trees In 2010

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Dell, HP and IBM Named Greenest Companies

2010-11-08T05:31:00.000-08:00

Dell, Hewlett-Packard and IBM are the greenest U.S. companies, with IBM claiming the number one spot globally, according to Newsweek’s Green Rankings 2010.

Rounding out the top five U.S. companies on the Green Rankings 2010 list are Johnson & Johnson at number four and Intel at number five. And joining IBM on the top five Global companies on the 2010 list are HP at number two, Johnson & Johnson at number three, Sony at number four and GlaxoSmithKine at number five.

Comparing the companies 2009 positions, both Dell and IBM increased, while HP slightly decreased. In 2009, HP claimed the number one spot; Dell was named number two and IBM number five.

The Newsweek Green Rankings grade America's 500 largest publicly traded companies, as measured by revenue, market capitalization and number of employees, on their environmental performance, policies and reputation as environmentally responsible companies. The complete list can be found at www.newsweek.com/green.

To rank the Greenest Companies in America Newsweek partnered with three independent organizations to assemble a 'green score' for each company. That score is based on three components:
* The Environmental Impact Score, compiled by Trucost, is based on more than 700 metrics, including greenhouse-gas emissions, water use and solid-waste disposal.
* The Green Policies Score is based on data collected by MSCI ESG Research and reflects an analytical assessment of a company's environmental policies and initiatives.
* The Reputation Score is based on a survey of academics, environmental officers and CEOs.

To calculate a company's overall ranking, the three component scores were standardized, combined using a weighted average (45 percent for the Environmental Impact Score, 45 percent for the Green Policies Score, and 10 percent for the Reputation Survey) and mapped to a 100-point scale.

Original source: Dell, HP and IBM Named Greenest Companies

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Lexmark Invites Developers to Build AIO Printer Apps

2010-11-01T06:03:00.000-07:00

Lexmark International, Inc. is calling on third-party developers to expand the company's offering of all-in-one (AIO) printer-based applications for small and medium businesses (SMBs), which Lexmark will publish on its SmartSolutions Center, for users to download to their Lexmark AIOs.

"Last year, Lexmark introduced three AIOs that let small business customers take their devices way beyond printing by enabling them to download and customize cloud-based and other applications, which we call SmartSolutions, that save them time and money," said Paul Rooke, Lexmark executive vice president and president of its Imaging Solutions Division. "By opening our SDK to developers, Lexmark can build and provide a more dynamic and robust library of SmartSolutions to enable customers to better manage the constant flow and mix of hardcopy and digital content that co-exists in today's modern office."

Additionally, Lexmark is announcing the newest SmartSolution, Google Analytics, which analyzes and reports on Web traffic right from the AIO. Google Analytics will be available for download early next month.

Other current SmartSolutions include applications that range from one touch solutions such as scan to e-mail and eco-copy, to Google Calendar, Stamps.com shipping, Twitter, Scan to Evernote, TripIt, Scan to Box and Facebook.

Lexmark is now soliciting developers who have a strong background in developing Web applications using Adobe Flash technology.

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Original source: Lexmark Invites Developers to Build AIO Printer Apps

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Printer Companies Flunk Recycling

2010-10-25T04:01:00.000-07:00

The Electronics TakeBack Coalition released a new report card that grades computer, television, printer, and game console companies on their efforts to take back and recycle their old products. Most of the manufacturers passed muster, but most printer companies and some TV ones flunked.

The highest marks go to Dell, Samsung, and Asus, but there were still some companies with failing grades, including Brother, Kodak, Lexmark, Philips, Funai, Epson, and RCA (now owned by Technicolor). Samsung also got a “dishonorable mention” because of concerns about their occupational health record at manufacturing plants in Korea where many young workers have been diagnosed with blood cancers and several have already died.

“Announcing that you have a takeback program really isn’t enough,” said Robin Schneider, Executive Director of the Texas Campaign for the Environment, and Vice Chair of the Electronics TakeBack Coalition. “Most electronics companies have some kind of takeback program – but what we are looking at is whether these programs are actually effective in collecting their old products, and are making sure they are not just being exported to developing nations.”

Key grading criteria:
* How extensive are the takeback programs, especially in states that don’t have strong laws requiring them to do so, including:
- How many collection sites are in each state?
- How much volume is coming back?
* Are products being recycled responsibly (not exported)
* What are the companies doing to promote reuse and closed loop recycling?
* Transparency in reporting
* Positions on government policies related to recycling

The printer industry generally scored the lowest marks – all failed except for HP - as well as a few TV manufacturers like Funai (5th largest U.S. seller), RCA, and Philips.

“If you don’t offer physical collection sites or events, you are not serious about your takeback program. With so many cheap consumer printers being practically disposable these days, the printer companies should be doing a lot more to make sure they get their old equipment back,” said Barbara Kyle, National Coordinator of the Electronics TakeBack Coalition. “Most of the printer companies simply offer mailback recycling programs, but statistics show that people won’t mail back larger products like printers.”

Companies generally performed poorly in the “responsible recycling” category, which requires transparency in recycling policies, vendor requirements, and vendors used, as well as giving the most credit to companies whose recyclers are qualified under the e-Stewards program. The e-Stewards program evaluates electronics recyclers against the highest standards in the industry, including a ban on exporting toxic e-waste (included untested and non-working products) to developing countries. The program has evolved from a voluntary “Pledge” program into a certification program with a comprehensive standard and accredited third party auditors who certify whether a recycler conforms to the standard.

The report card was released in advance of the holiday buying season, when consumers typically buy a large volume of electronics in the U.S.

“People are increasingly looking for "green" electronics, and convenient and responsible recycling programs are a significant part of that picture,” said Robin Schneider. “Consumers should consider a company’s recycling program when they decide what to buy.”

Link to Electronics Recycling Report Card

Original source: Printer Companies Flunk Recycling

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TotalFlow is Ricoh's new global brand for production solutions and services

2010-10-11T04:48:00.000-07:00

The Production Printing Business Group (PPBG) of Ricoh Americas Corporation today announced a new strategy for solutions and professional services called TotalFlow™. TotalFlow is a Ricoh branded open architecture under which all production printing solutions will be positioned. For customers seeking to improve process efficiency and effectiveness, under the TotalFlow umbrella Ricoh will provide a "one-stop" experience, including both Ricoh and leading 3rd party solutions. TotalFlow provides four fundamental document processes for customers: Capture, Manage, Produce, and Innovate. The TotalFlow concept is designed to help manage entire workflows, simplify workflow processes and expand access to a wide range of solutions.

Under Capture, Manage and Produce, TotalFlow offers a full range of offerings, including web-to-print, personalization, document and job management, and multi-channel marketing capabilities, all supported by Ricoh’s industry leading printing platforms.

Innovate consists of services such as Ricoh’s newly launched Business Booster Program which includes a Resource Center, Consulting Services, Marketing Services and much more. The Ricoh Business Booster program is available today and can be accessed at www.ricohbusinessbooster.com.

“Since Ricoh’s entry into production printing with the formation of PPBG in 2006, we have made steady progress in developing a solutions portfolio and technical staff with an eye on customer support at the highest level. Today, a high percentage of our customers rely on Ricoh to take advantage of today’s rapidly advancing software capabilities.” said Carl Joachim, vice president of marketing for PPBG, Ricoh Americas Corporation. “The announcement of TotalFlow as both a brand, and open architecture, is yet another statement underscoring Ricoh’s commitment to the industry. Future Ricoh developed solutions under the TotalFlow brand, in conjunction with those provided through our alliance program, will give our customers more options than ever before, all backed by Ricoh’s world class service and support.

Additionally, InfoPrint Solutions Software Advantage, which includes the industry leading workflow solution InfoPrint Process Director, is a component of TotalFlow’s open architecture.

TotalFlow solutions will be on display at GRAPH EXPO at the Ricoh booth, # 2017. Find out more about TotalFlow and Ricoh’s full line of solutions and services by visiting www.ricoh-usa.com.

Original source: TOTALFLOW IS RICOH’S NEW GLOBAL BRAND FOR PRODUCTION SOLUTIONS AND SERVICES

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Xerox Mobile Offerings Make it Easier for Office Workers to Print From Anywhere, Anytime

2010-10-04T05:56:00.000-07:00

Xerox Corporation (NYSE: XRX) is helping mobile office workers and IT professionals stay productive with three tools that make it easier than ever to print regardless of location.
The Xerox Mobile Print Solution lets mobile professionals easily and securely print e-mails, presentations and other business documents from any smart phone or e-mail-enabled device.
Enhanced Mobile Express and Global Print Drivers tell workers instantly what printers are available to their laptop for fast printing options for the roaming workforce, while offering simplified print management by IT staff.
“No two mobile workers are the same – from the executive reviewing a presentation on his phone en route to a staff meeting to the NYC-based employee working at Paris headquarters – but all need an easy and secure way to print,” said Rick Dastin, president, Enterprise Business Group, Xerox Corporation. “Our approach delivers simplicity for any location, helping mobile workers focus more on their business and less on how to print.”

Smart printing via smart phone
The Xerox Mobile Print Solution allows users to print from e-mail-enabled devices without having to download drivers or applications. Users simply e-mail the file in its original format, such as Microsoft Word or Adobe PDF, to a secure server. A confirmation code is then e-mailed to the user to securely release the document for printing from any Xerox Extensible Interface Platform®-enabled multifunction printer (MFP).
The Xerox Mobile Print Solution runs on a company’s private server to maintain full compliance with the existing security infrastructure. The solution also:
* Preserves all formatting and data when printing Microsoft Office documents, just like printing from the desktop.
* Offers full preview of the document on the MFP’s user interface before printing.
* Provides the same print settings such as duplex, color and finishing options that are available to users on a desktop.

Simplified print drivers
Enhancements have also been added to both the Xerox Mobile Express and Global Print Drivers. These tools allow mobile workers to print to virtually any printer or MFP available on the network, regardless of location or brand, and reduce the time spent managing print drivers for various devices.
The updated drivers:
* Eliminate the need for IT professionals to install new drivers to support full functionality on current and future Xerox products.
* Provide access to the latest set of features on Xerox printers and MFPs such as Color by Words, which displays simple words to select colors such as “red apple” or “blue sky” for easy and accurate color printing.
* Help workers identify print jobs in busy workgroups without banner pages by automatically including user and job information in the unused page margin eliminating wasted pages.
* Offer Earth Smart print driver defaults that can be set to include two-sided printing, proof print, recycled paper and draft mode.

Availability
The Mobile Express and Global Print Drivers are free and currently available for download at www.office.xerox.com/software-solutions/mobile-printer-driver/enus.html and www.office.xerox.com/software-solutions/global-printer-driver/enus.html.

The Xerox Mobile Print Solution will be available for early customer installs beginning in the fourth quarter, with general worldwide availability in early 2011.
Learn more about Xerox’s Mobile Print Solution at http://www.xerox.com/mobileprintsolution.

Original sources: Xerox Mobile Offerings Make it Easier for Office Workers to Print From Anywhere, Anytime

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HP Unveils Print Solutions, Including 10 Industry-First Innovations

2010-09-27T03:46:00.000-07:00

Hewlett Packard / HP announced multiple innovations across its printing portfolio, including 10 industry-first technologies that significantly improve how customers interact with their digital content.

The new solutions are designed to help enable all customers – from consumers to small and midsize businesses (SMBs) to enterprise organizations – to better manage and access digital content, convert information from paper to digital with one touch, and quickly unlock content repositories in the enterprise.

“HP is unleashing innovation and has once again made the future a reality,” said Vyomesh Joshi, executive vice president, Imaging and Printing Group, HP. “We have transformed the flow of content for all customers letting them access, share, print and manage content virtually anytime or anywhere in the world.”

HP introduced two content devices designed to serve the access and print needs of digitally connected consumers. In addition, the company has simplified the print experience from mobile devices by offering HP ePrint on all new HP Photosmart devices as well as direct printing from Apple iPad, iPod touch and iPhone devices with iOS 4.2.

The HP Photosmart eStation All-in-One combines the full features of an HP All-in-One with web browsing and access to HP print apps and widgets – plus a detachable, 7-inch, full-color touchscreen for mobile freedom in the home. Additional features include access to Barnes & Noble’s expansive eBookstore with more than 1 million digital titles as well as one-touch access to customized content from Yahoo!, Yahoo! Mail, Yahoo! Messenger, Yahoo! Search and Yahoo! Weather direct from the display. Customers also can fax without the need of a phone line. The ENERGY STAR qualified HP Photosmart eStation is currently available in select countries for $399.

The HP ENVY 100 e-All-in-One is a sleek, slim-line printer designed to complement modern home décor and features a high-resolution touchscreen display, whisper-quiet operation and a retractable paper tray. The ENERGY STAR qualified HP ENVY 100 e-All-in-One is the planet’s first PVC-free printer and is expected to be available worldwide next month for $249.

HP’s new portfolio of web-connected printers for SMB customers makes it easy to access HP print apps, share information and ePrint wherever business happens. HP also is working with Intuit’s Partner Platform to deliver an app that will allow small businesses to easily scan, store and manage financial materials via Intuit’s QuickBooks.

The wired and wireless HP LaserJet Pro CM1415fnw Color MFP is the first HP LaserJet printer that prints from the web and mobile devices and offers a 3.5-inch color touchscreen control panel that allows users to easily print, scan, copy and fax. The device is available now for $449.

The HP Officejet Pro 8500A e-All-in-One series allows small businesses to make their best impression with professional-quality color prints, marketing materials or other business documents for up to 50 percent lower cost per page and while using up 50 percent less energy than color laser printers. It is available now starting at $299.

The HP Officejet 7500A Wide Format e-All-in-One produces professional-quality color documents for the lowest cost per page compared with in-class, wide-format inkjet all-in-ones on a range of paper types and sizes. The 7500A includes integrated wired and wireless networking for sharing with multiple PCs and includes a 2.36-inch color touchscreen display. It is available now for $299.

The wired and wireless HP Officejet 6500A e-All-in-One series lets users produce professional-quality, lowest-cost-in-class color documents, plus fax, copy and scan. The 6500A uses 40 percent less energy than comparable laser printers and includes a 2.36-inch color touchscreen display. Available now starting at $149.

Additionally, HP introduced an expanded portfolio of printers with HP ePrint technology, expected to be available this winter, and a compact scanner.

The HP LaserJet Pro CP1025nw Color Printer is expected to be the world’s smallest color laser printer and one of the world’s most energy-efficient color laser printers. It is expected to be available in November for $229. The HP LaserJet Pro CP1525nw Color Printer is expected to be available in November for $299. The HP LaserJet Pro M1536dnf MFP is available now for $299. The HP Scanjet Pro 3000 Sheet-feed Scanner is expected to be available in November for $449.

HP FutureSmart Firmware and the latest version of the HP Open Extensibility Platform (OXP) help extend the life of an imaging and printing fleet while helping to increase office productivity and simplify fleet management.

These technologies enable SMB and enterprise customers to use future solutions on hardware purchased today as well as extend those capabilities to OXP-enabled devices dating back to 2005, providing significant investment protection. Together, they allow HP and solution partners to develop advanced applications, making HP multifunction printers a document workflow kiosk for multiple business processes that enhance productivity.

The new printing products and all future networked, office-class HP LaserJet printers are based on HP FutureSmart Firmware. The new products, services and solutions are designed to help HP Managed Print Services customers cut costs, improve productivity, mitigate risk and drive business results.

New products include: The HP Color LaserJet Enterprise CM4540 Multifunction Printer series is expected to be available this winter for $3,799 to $5,549. The HP Color LaserJet Enterprise CP5520 Printer series is expected to be available this winter for $2,499 to $4,399. The HP Scanjet 7500 Enterprise Flatbed Scanner is expected to be available this winter for $1,399.

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Original source: HP Unveils Print Solutions, Including 10 Industry-First Innovations

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History of Computer Printers & Typewriters

2010-09-20T03:34:00.000-07:00

Printers - In 1953, the first high-speed printer was developed by Remington-Rand for use on the Univac computer.

In 1938, Chester Carlson invented a dry printing process called electrophotography commonly called a Xerox, the foundation technology for laser printers to come.

The original laser printer called EARS was developed at the Xerox Palo Alto Research Center beginning in 1969 and completed in November, 1971. Xerox Engineer, Gary Starkweather adapted Xerox copier technology adding a laser beam to it to come up with the laser printer. According to Xerox, "The Xerox 9700 Electronic Printing System, the first xerographic laser printer product, was released in 1977. The 9700, a direct descendent from the original PARC "EARS" printer which pioneered in laser scanning optics, character generation electronics, and page-formatting software, was the first product on the market to be enabled by PARC research."

According to IBM, "the very first IBM 3800 was installed in the central accounting office at F. W. Woolworth’s North American data center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in 1976." The IBM 3800 Printing System was the industry’s first high-speed, laser printer. A laser printer that operated at speeds of more than 100 impressions-per-minute. It was the first printer to combine laser technology and electrophotography according to IBM.

In 1992, Hewlett-Packard released the popular LaserJet 4, the first 600 by 600 dots per inch resolution laser printer.

In 1976, the inkjet printer was invented, but it took until 1988 for the inkjet to become a home consumer item with Hewlett-Parkard's release of the DeskJet inkjet printer, priced at a whopping $1000.

Typewriter - Christopher Latham Sholes(1819-1890)was a U.S. mechanical engineer who invented the first practical modern typewriter, patented in 1868. Sholes invented the typewriter with partners S. W. Soule and G. Glidden, that was manufactured (by Remington Arms Company) in 1873. He was born February 14, 1819 in Mooresburg, Pennsylvania, and died on February 17, 1890 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Before the computer, the typewriter may have been the most significant everyday business tool. Christopher Latham Sholes and his colleagues, Carlos Glidden and Samuel Soulé, invented the first practical typewriting machine in 1866. Five years, dozens of experiments, and two patents later, Sholes and his associates produced an improved model similar to today's typewriters.

The type-bar system and the universal keyboard were the machine's novelty, but the keys jammed easily. To solve the jamming problem, another business associate, James Densmore, suggested splitting up keys for letters commonly used together to slow down typing. This became today's standard "QWERTY" keyboard.

Original sources: History of Computer Printers, Typewriters, Qwerty & Typing

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Sir Speedy of Nashville Selects Konica Minolta"s bizhub PRO Digital Press to Deliver Unmatched Performance

2010-08-30T06:43:00.000-07:00

Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta), a leading provider of advanced imaging and networking technologies for the desktop to the print shop have announced that the Sir Speedy of Nashville, Tenn. (Sir Speedy) has chosen Konica Minolta’s award-winning bizhub PRO® 1200 Monochrome Digital Press, which is providing its customers the perfect balance of price and performance while allowing them to successfully and cost-effectively grow their businesses regardless of the turbulent economy.

Personalized Campaigns Across Verticals

With the addition of the bizhub PRO 1200 system, Sir Speedy is delivering turn-key, customized campaigns to its customers through services such as creative design, variable data printing (VDP), data management and direct marketing response metrics. In addition, Sir Speedy is enhancing its ability to personalize products such as manuals and training booklets in several important vertical markets including Manufacturing, Utilities, High-Technology and Government. Sir Speedy selected Konica Minolta from among multiple solutions due to its ability to balance high-quality digital imaging with an excellent price point. In addition, Sir Speedy did not have to incur the cost of additional software while increasing output rip speed and solution flexibility.

“Our challenge was to maintain high quality digital imaging with a capital expense that allowed competitive pricing for our clients,” said Charlie Brown, President and Owner, Sir Speedy Nashville. ”With the bizhub PRO 1200, we have been able to reduce digital monochrome expenses by 27 percent without any impact on quality or productivity while helping our customers grow their businesses, which is the ultimate sign of success.”

bizhub PRO 1200

With the addition of the bizhub PRO 1200, Sir Speedy has been able to reduce digital monochrome expenses without any impact on quality or productivity. Designed exclusively for production print professionals, the bizhub PRO 1200 (printer, copier, scanner) and 1200P (printer) has become the go-to digital press for customers. It features new LED exposure technology for superior imaging at 1,200 DPI resolution and can output up to 3 million pages per month.

“We are always happy to help customers reduce their costs without having to make any tradeoffs in output quality,” said Kevin Kern, Senior Vice President, Marketing, Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A. Inc. “Doing so while also growing their business opportunities is another reason for customers to feel comfortable counting on Konica Minolta for their full range of digital printing needs.”

Original source: Sir Speedy of Nashville Selects Konica Minolta"s bizhub PRO Digital Press to Deliver Unmatched Performance

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Sharp adds two new monochrome laser multifuncion products to complete its hi-speed workgroup engine lineup

2010-08-23T06:38:00.000-07:00

Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA) introduced the new MX-M623N and MX-M623U monochrome hi-speed document systems to its extensive lineup of multifunction products (MFPs). These new higher-volume MFPs are designed to help businesses maximize their document workflow efficiency while providing outstanding performance and ease-of-use. The MX-M623 models follow the recently introduced MX-M753, another model in Sharp’s hi-speed monochrome MFP lineup released this past Spring.

Engineered to increase workflow productivity, the MX-M623 and MX-M753 devices come with an 8.5-inch high-resolution touch-screen color display and a powerful 800 MHz multi-tasking controller that processes complex jobs quickly, even while documents are being scanned. Moreover, the MFPs produce copy/print speeds of 62 and 75 pages per minute (ppm) respectively, while feeding up to 110 lb index stock through the paper trays, providing power and reliability to handle professional-level printing needs.

The customizable Home Screen and My Menu simplify use by bringing access to Sharp OSA® applications and commonly-used features to the forefront of the display for one-touch operation. The MX-M623N and MX-M753N also offer a standard retractable keyboard, simplifying jobs that require repetitive data entry tasks such as email-distribution, archiving or scanning to a document management application, while also enabling quick interaction with network applications.

“Customers in high end workgroup markets need easy-to-use machines that can handle large and complex jobs quickly, while also maintaining a high level of efficiency and a low cost of ownership,“ said Mike Marusic, vice president, Marketing, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “The high-performance engine, customizable functions and seamless integration of the OSA 3.5 development platform enable users to set up the devices in a way that meet their own personal business needs. Adding these new models to Sharp’s high-volume MFP lineup gives customers a number of different options to choose from that do just that.”

Designed for Exceptional Performance and Reliability
Featuring an 800 MHz true multi-tasking controller that delivers copy, print and fax jobs continuously and can also process network scanning jobs while existing jobs are output, the MX-M623N and MX-M753N models are extremely versatile. These MFPs are manufactured with Sharp second generation micro-fine toner technology, which provides more uniform image coverage and a lower consumption rate than conventional toners, resulting in crisp, high-quality output that is also economical.

These new models feature an available on-line paper capacity of up to 6,600 sheets; and a 150-sheet duplex single pass document feeder with color Scan2™ technology standard. Sharp’s award-winning Scan2 technology enables users to scan two-sided documents in a single pass, speeding up workflow, reducing misfeeds and improving reliability.

A New Standard for Ease-of-Use
The MX-M623N and MX-M753N models offer a standard, retractable keyboard that is designed to streamline data entry and simplify e-mail address and subject line entries. This sturdy keyboard offers users a familiar, ergonomic interface and makes these models convenient portals to the network, saving time on jobs that may require user authentication or include repetitive scanning and archiving of documents.

The brilliant 8.5" high-resolution touch-screen color display offers intuitive menu navigation with razor-sharp graphics that makes operation simple. Coupled with Sharp’s easy-to-use Document Filing System, users can store and quickly recall frequently used files such as forms and reports. Intuitive, graphics-driven displays make it easy to search for saved documents via thumbnail images rather than file names. An advanced Image Check feature even allows files to be previewed on-screen for verification.

The Sharp MX-M623 and MX-M753 document systems also feature the latest version of the Sharp OSA development platform. With the standard application communication module and external accounting module, the new MX Monochrome Series becomes the gateway to providing fast, flexible access to documents and network applications. Sharp OSA technology leverages the high-resolution display of these new Sharp MFP models to enable customized user interfaces that support richer graphics, web-based HTML, JAVA and Flash clips for the integration of motion video. Sharp OSA technology also features Open USB capability, allowing developers to provide a broader range of access control, such as the ability to log in via a card swipe and the ability to authenticate via Chip/Smart Card (CCID).

Unparalleled Device Management Capabilities
These new models also include the new Sharp printer administration utility (PAU version 5.0), which incorporates a Remote Front Panel feature that allows an IT administrator to remotely take control of the device’s front panel and see exactly what the end user is seeing. The IT administrator can remotely change settings, show the user how to perform a function, or diagnose and often rectify problems without deploying a technician.

The capabilities of PAU version 5.0 are fully integrated into Sharp’s intelligent Device Management (iDVM), which for the dealer can transform many service support functions from an onsite task to a remote task, leading to enhanced productivity and profitability, as well as reduced costs. Developed and marketed with MWA Intelligence (MWAi), a leading provider of M2M (machine-to-machine) solutions and tools, iDVM also enables the dealer to automate meter read collection and integrate the data into their ERP system providing an enhanced, streamlined billing process. It will also allow service providers to remotely access service logs, receive real-time service alerts and consumable levels notification, update firmware, and clone device settings, dramatically improving user uptimes and service support levels.

Supporting the Newest Security Standards
With Sharp’s latest award-winning, multi-level document and network security suite, customers can be assured that their information is secure. These models meet the new IEEE-2600™-2008 security standard for MFPs as well as offer advanced, web-based device management for administrator level and user level login control. Sharp also offers an optional data security kit that encrypts document data using AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) methodology. This same kit also erases temporary memory on the hard drive by overwriting the encrypted data up to seven times.

Sharp Best of Breed Engineering
The MX-M623 and MX-M753 are the result of Sharp’s unique approach to designing and building office products. The company employs a global product development process in which management, business development, R&D, product development, marketing, manufacturing, training and customer service teams all work collaboratively during each stage of the product development process. This gives Sharp a 360-degree view of the MFP market, allowing the company to form a common platform strategy in which the core components of its product line are designed, developed and manufactured together. Components, software and processes are engineered to be shared across engine platforms, making Sharp’s products “look and act” similarly across virtually all segments of the market. The culmination of this approach is a line of award winning products universally praised for exceptional reliability and superior performance.

The MX-M623 and MX-M753 will be available exclusively via authorized Sharp dealers and direct sales. For more information about the complete line of Sharp document solution products, contact Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America, Sharp Plaza, Mahwah, NJ 07495-1163, or call 800-BE-SHARP.

Original source: SHARP ADDS TWO NEW MONOCHROME LASER MULTIFUNCTION PRODUCTS TO COMPLETE ITS HI-SPEED WORKGROUP ENGINE LINEUP

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Toner Cartridges - OEM, Compatible or Remanufactured?

2010-08-02T05:35:00.000-07:00

If you own a laser printer, you have already taken a step in the right direction towards lower cost printing. Laser printers consistently produce prints at the lowest cost per page in the market. However, what you might not know is that laser printers can work with OEM brand toners as well as compatible and re-manufactured toners. But which one is best for YOU?

Laser Toner Cartridge Definitions:
* OEM Cartridge - An OEM cartridge is one made by the Original Equipment Manufacturer, or OEM. If you own a Hewlett Packard / HP laser toner printer, then the Hewlett-Packard brand is the OEM cartridge for your printer.
* Compatible Toner Cartridge - A compatible toner cartridge is made by a 3rd party manufacturer and is made up of all new compatible parts. It is similar in quality to a OEM cartridge.
* Remanufactured Toner Cartridge - A remanufactured toner cartridge is when a remanufacturer takes an original oem cartridge, disassembles it, tests and replaces any worn parts, fills it with toner and re-assembles.

There are many different levels and qualities of remanufactured toner cartridges and the terms compatible and remanufactured are often mistakenly interchanged. Some manufacturers will replace a few parts and call it compatible. Some manufacturers will drill a hole fill it with toner and call it remanufactured. Just be sure to purchase your toner cartridges from a reputable dealer that has a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Advantages of Buying OEM Toner Cartridges

OEM Toners are manufactured to the highest level of precision. These toners are ideal for providing the best print quality. They have a lower fail rate and have a lower probability of leaking toner in your printer. Printer manufacturers recommend that you use their toner cartridges and claim that the printer functions will be affected by other toner cartridges. They also claim the life of the laser printer is shortened by usage of unbranded toner cartridges. If your projects demand the absolute highest quality prints you should break out your pocketbook and spring for the OEM brand toner cartridges.

Disadvantages of Buying OEM Toner

The main disadvantage of buying OEM branded toner cartridges is the high cost.While they are economical because the cost per page is low, purchasing an OEM toner might cost you anywhere from $75 - $300. The initial cost of laser printers has come down but printer makers make up their low inital profit by in the cost of consumables, mainly toner and paper.
Another problem with OEM toner cartridges is the fact that we live in an Eco conscious world and discarding toner cartridges which are not biodegradable is an environmental hazard. Buying a remanufactured toner is more enviornmentally friendly.

Compatible and Remanufactured Cartridges - The Advantages

The biggest advantage of using compatible toner cartridges is they are low cost consumables. Compatible and Remanufactured toner cartridges are available for laser printers and give good quality printing at a lower cost often half the cost of the branded cartridge.
These recycled cartridges are eco friendly and do not render the non biodegradable cartridges useless. They are easily available online and there are online trade portals that specifically sell compatible toner cartridges.
All reputable online stores offer guarantees and warranties. There are compatible toner cartridges for most brands of laser printers and give good value for money. Print quality of both compatible and remanufactured toner cartridges is right up there just under the OEM brand toners.

Compatible and Remanufactured Cartridges - The Disadvantages

One of the major disadvantage of compatible and re-manufactured toner cartridges is quality control during the manufacturing processes. These cartridges are easy to re-manufacture and can be done in your own garage. When buying them online from an auction site or a less than reputable dealer, you never really know what you're going to get. Was the cartridge completely re-manufactured, or did they just "drill and fill" it? This disadvantage can be overcome buy buying from a reputable online store with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

So what do I choose?

The choice is yours. If you demand the highest quality 100% of the time, and it is within your budget, then by all means, purchase the OEM Toner cartridges for your printer.
However if replacing the toner cartridge with a compatible or remanufactured cartridge is more budget friendly, then feel confident that you can get nearly the same quailty, do something good for the environment and save a little money at the same time. OEM Brands are grand, but buying toner cartridges that are cheap doesn't have to make you weep. Go Green and save some Green.

Original source: Toner Cartridges - OEM, Compatible or Remanufactured?

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Everything You Need to Know About Buying a Fax Machine

2010-07-26T06:02:00.000-07:00

Introduction
With more than 110 laser fax models from 19 different companies on the market today, determining, with confidence, which one is right for your office isn't easy. The latest upgrades and added features may benefit you but often come with a high price tag.
What's the best modem speed for your business? Should you get a machine that prints and scans as well as faxes? What can you expect to pay? The questions are endless. However, the Better Buys for Business team has created this special report to help you cut through the clutter and tell you what you need to know to make an informed buying decision.

Getting Started
Let's begin by clarifying what is meant by laser fax machine. These are fax machines that can print on regular paper using laser-imaging technology (that also includes LED technology, which we consider laser-class). These machines can cost between $250 and $4,000. The sub-$1,000 machines are mainly sold through retail stores such as office supplies superstores, while the larger ones are usually sold through traditional office equipment dealers.
Major advances in fax standards do not occur with great frequency, partly because everything is governed by global industry standards that ensure all machines can communicate with each other. Therefore, progress requires considerable international diplomacy. Fax speeds do not change at a rapid pace. From 1980 to 1991, the fax speed standard was 9,600bps then 14,400bps became the fax speed standard. Not until 1997 were high-speed 33,600bps machines available and they are still the standard today. Though some manufacturers are still introducing machines with 14.4 modems, most new models these days come with a 33.6 modem - the fastest modem available for fax machines.
The very latest developments in fax technology involve something called Internet fax. This means different things to different people, but the fundamental idea is to allow faxes to travel over the Internet for the long-distance portion of their journey. This can either be real-time transmissions of documents from machine to machine over the Internet (which is the ITU T.38 protocol), or a type called "scan-to-e-mail" (the ITU T.37 protocol), similar to sending e-mails between fax machines or faxing to e-mail addresses (something most fax machines already do). Take note of the protocol. It will help you get the type of Internet Fax capability you're after.

Low-end models
Until recently, fax machines have been fairly expensive. One reason for such high prices is that historically, traditional office equipment dealers have controlled the lion's share of distribution. There was relatively little laser-class equipment available at the retail level (i.e., office supply superstores, mail-order catalogs, and the like).
These days, however, you can find some pretty inexpensive, but surprisingly upscale, laser multifunctional devices with fax functions being offered in the retail channel, where higher sales volumes mean lower margins.
Spending about $400 - $700 in the retail channel will get you a machine that in many ways matches and in some ways exceeds a dealer-channel fax machine selling for $1,200 - $2,500. Aside from relatively small paper trays, low-end retail-channel machines will give you all you need to handle a modest amount of fax traffic. And as we'll see in a moment, they also offer some of the strongest multifunctional capabilities in the fax market.
What you can expect to get for less than $1,000.
· A single paper tray with a 250 sheet capacity.
· A choice between a 14.4 modem and a 33.6 modem.
· A single fax line.
· JBIG data compression, though only a handful of models. (Data compression cuts transmission times, reducing phone costs.)
If you are looking for a more rugged machine than what a low-end model can deliver, a higher-end machine may be right for you.

High-end models
The dealer channel plays a valuable role as a source for more upscale machines that offer heavy-duty users capabilities the retail-channel models don't. Machines with 14.4 modems, single paper trays, and fewer than 100 pages of fax memory are slowly disappearing from the market, leaving more current, feature-rich models in their place. For a state-of-the-art, high-end fax, you'll need to look at dealer-channel machines and should expect list prices in the $2,200 - $3,000 range. But unlike the retail channel, where you are likely to pay list price, the dealer channel routinely discounts list by 25% - 35%.
Regardless of what you pay, most high-end models promise excellent performance:
· 33.6 modems to ensure the fastest transmission times. (56K speeds are commonplace in computers but aren't yet part of the fax landscape and won't be in the foreseeable future.)
· JBIG data compression that could reduce your phone costs by 30% or more.
· Larger paper supplies - two trays, at least one of which has a 500-sheet capacity.
· Anywhere from 400 to 1,000 pages of fax memory (with optional upgrades).
· Optional second phone lines.
· Network and Internet fax capabilities.

Multifunctional Models
Nearly all fax machines have multifunctional options, allowing them to perform additional duties as printers, scanners, and PC fax modems. For instance, many models can be connected to your PC for use as a printer and/or a scanner. Depending on the machine these functions may be standard (common in low-end models) or optional. Options vary in sophistication and price, as well as the range of functionality offered. In general, they can add several hundred dollars to the price of a fax machine, though some can be found on the street for under $100. Incidentally, almost all such upgrades work only with Windows PCs; Mac OS users are largely overlooked in the fax market. In addition, many of them are designed for direct connection only, though this is changing. Approximately half of the models currently on the market support a network connection.
Compromised performance?
While the concept of multifunctionality is attractive, the reality at present can be somewhat disappointing, so you may want to think twice before taking this route. Remember, regardless of the additional functions offered, the machine remains a fax machine, first and foremost.

Better at the bottom?
Right now, the most attractive multifunctional machines that are not platen-based are those sold in the sub-$1,000 segment and can usually be found for between $400-$700 at retail. With these models, it doesn't matter if the printer function is relatively entry-level, because machines at this price point are, by definition, catering to low-volume requirements.
In some respects, the typical entry-level multifunctional machine offers better PC printing than a lot of $2,000 dealer-channel models. For example, the engine resolution is often higher, even if the speed isn't. But with the printer performance the same, it still adds up to a more well-rounded product. And you won't have the awkward imbalance of adding a low-end printer function to a high-end, high-priced fax platform.

Original source: Better Buys - Free Special Reports

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Multifunctional Machines Explained

2010-07-19T06:23:00.000-07:00

One of the fastest growing segments of the office equipment industry features a new kind of machine: the multifunctional. Sometimes referred to as an all-in-one, a multifunctional combines the functions of at least three different pieces of office equipment into one machine that s tailored to small offices, home offices and workgroups.
Is a multifunctional right for you? Where is the best place to buy one? What features should you look for when buying one? What can you expect to pay? The questions are endless. However, the Better Buys for Business team has created this special report to help you cut though the clutter and tell you what you need the know to make an informed buying decision.

Multifunctionals Defined
Multifunctionals are commonly described as machines that perform at least three of the following functions:
• Printing electronic documents from your computer,
• Copying paper documents,
• Faxing paper or electronic documents, or
• Scanning paper documents to your PC or to others as an e-mail.

The theory behind multifunctional units is simple pack all the document-processing functions you could want into a single machine to save space and money. In practice, though, there are limits to what a manufacturer can combine into one device while preserving the integrity of the functions and offering a competitive price.

Evaluating Each Function
It s important to know what kind of performance you ll get from each function provided by your machine. Some important factors to consider:
Printing:
• Image quality: Despite advances in ink jet technology, laser output remains crisper and clearer to most eyes, so if you only need black-and-white printing, a laser machine may be the better choice.
• Speed: The fastest multifunctional machines have laser engines most now print at 12-15 pages-per-minute. Inkjet models are often slower, even when running black-and-white jobs. Also, inkjet vendors may quote the maximum speed and maximum resolution in the same breath, but it’s unlikely that you will get both at the same time.
• Economics: The cost of supplies varies widely, but it tends to run higher for inkjet models than laser units. If you plan to generate high page volumes, these differences can mount up fast. Ink jet units can be less expensive than laser units to buy but are usually more expensive to run.
• PCL and PostScript: Not all multifunctionals offer the printer languages PCL and PostScript, but use a less powerful printing system called Windows GDI. You ll pay extra for machines with these features, which are needed for printing complex files, particularly those with lots of graphics and different fonts.

Copying
• Sheet-fed models: This kind of multifunctional is similar to a fax in that you place your originals in a document feeder when processing hard copies. The disadvantage, however, is that you can t copy a book or magazine unless you are willing to rip it apart.
• Platen models: These work like regular office copiers. They come with a platen, which is the glass surface that sits on the top of the machine. You can lay bound originals such as books and magazines on the platen and make copies without damaging the original. As a general rule, platen-based models are more expensive.
• Color models: If you need color copying, low-cost models can be especially slow several run at less than a page a minute. On the other hand, image quality can be surprisingly good.

Faxing
• Fax speed: Most fax-capable multifunctionals have modems that operate at a top speed of 14,400 bps. Higher-end multifunctional models include 33,600 bps modems. To take advantage of this faster speed, the party to whom you re sending (or from whom you re receiving) must match it. Otherwise, the speed will default to the slowest common level.
• Fax memory: This determines how many pages you can scan into the machine when sending a large document, as well as how many it can receive if it runs out of paper. Low-end models typically come with between 100-150 pages of memory, while more expensive machines have 250 pages or more.
• Color faxing: A handful of models can send and receive color faxes, but there are limitations. Both the transmitting and the receiving machines must be color-capable, and this is still fairly uncommon. Also, color faxing can take a long time because of the large size of color files. Finally, image quality can be disappointing because the compression method used causes some image data to be lost during transmission.

Scanning to PC
• Bundled software: Unlike printing, copying and faxing, which are hardware-dependent, scanning depends mostly on software. The most important part of scanning is what happens to the image after it has been scanned. Multifunctionals generally come bundled with a software suite that includes Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software for converting scanned documents into editable text, as well as image manipulation software for enhancing halftones and graphics.
• Resolution: Contrary to what you might think, having the ability to scan at high resolutions isnot all that important on a multifunctional. Often, scanning at high resolutions (common when scanning photographs) creates large electronic files that are cumbersome to handle. For most general purposes, 200 dpi, 300 dpi, or 400 dpi will do fine. Though many machines offer resolutions of 1,200 dpi and higher, most people rarely scan at these lofty levels.
• Ease of use: Scanning can be a tricky function to master, particularly if you ve never done it before. Some machines are easier to operate than others and it s worth trying out this function on demo models in stores.

Scan to e-mail
• This is one of the more helpful functions in the multifunctional category. It s something of a crossover technology, somewhere between scanning to a PC and faxing. Scan to e-mail allows you to take a hard-copy document, scan it into your multifunctional, and have the image sent as an e-mail attachment. The person receiving it has the option of either viewing it or printing it out. Look for multifunctionals that offer this function as a single button on the control panel.

Additional factors
When getting a feel for how you want each function to perform, keep these additional factors in mind:
Connectivity & compatibility - Most multifunctionals feature either a parallel or USB (Universal Serial Bus) port for connecting to your PC. A growing number can be connected to a computer network, either by plugging an external network server into the parallel port or by installing an Ethernet card into the machine itself. Note that an Ethernet link can add several hundred dollars to the purchase price of your unit. If you are working from a Mac, make sure the multifunctional you choose works with that platform not all do.

Ease of use - We can t overemphasize the importance of ease of use. With so many functions and features crammed into one machine, "user friendliness" is critical to determining whether you re getting your money s worth. Here are some things to consider: Does the software install rapidly and without creating conflicts with other programs? Are the various functions well integrated and easily accessible through the software? How easy is it to replace the supplies? Is the control panel uncluttered?
One of the biggest challenges for manufacturers is designing a control panel after
packing as many as four functions and numerous features into a single product.

The Case For & Against
Incorporating a multifunctional machine into your office can have both advantages and disadvantages.
The pros
• It s far cheaper to buy one machine that combines three or more functions than to buy three single-function machines.
• Keeping track of supplies and keeping the paper tray filled is far easier when dealing with only one machine; maintenance is easier, too.
• Multifunctional models don t take up much space most sit comfortably in the corner of a desk. It’s likely you wouldn t have enough room for a copier, printer, fax, and scanner if each was bought separately.
• Since there is just a single connection, cabling to your PC is easier. It can be quite confusing running multiple cables from your PC to a separate printer, scanner and, in some cases, fax machine. (The exception is if your office equipment is on a network.)

The cons
• When combining several functions into one machine, manufacturers are often forced to make certain tradeoffs, affecting what is made available to you. For instance, you may have to sacrifice fax speed to get a model that copies with a glass platen (where you place your original). Or, you may gain higher-resolution laser printing at the cost of engine speed, and so on. Keep an eye out for these tradeoffs.
• When a multifunctional machine suffers a malfunction, your document processing may grind to a halt. Instead of losing only a single function, you re likely to lose copying, printing, and the ability to print an incoming fax.
• If several people share the same machine, there can be contention problems. For example, when a print job is in process the other users are unable to make copies, or have a fax reception printed, until it is finished. High-end multifunctionals let you at least scan a copy job to memory, but most low-end models make you wait.
• Some multifunctional models suffer from an imbalance of features. For example, the print function may be quite strong, while the copy or fax function is weak.
• If you already own a single-function machine that suits your needs, it may not make sense to buy a multifunctional model just to get a additional functions. For example, if you already own a $400 desktop copier you might be better off buying a cheap consumer scanner for $69 and an inkjet printer for $129 rather than a multifunctional printer/copier/scanner for $399.

But convenience isn t the only factor to consider when shopping for a multifunctional. Multifunctionals are fairly complicated products, far more complex than single-function printers or fax machines. If you can get a good look at (or a demonstration of) a multifunctional model before you buy it, you re less likely to have an unpleasant surprise once it s sitting on your desktop. The best place to get a close look is an office supplies superstore, but don t expect to see the full product line for any given vendor. Retail stores keep only a few machines on the floor in order to keep down costs.

Original source: Better Buys - Free Special Reports

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Brother Formulated Logo and Slogan for Environmental Activities

2010-06-28T06:48:00.000-07:00

Roll out "Brother Earth" activity throughout the world
The Brother Group (president: Toshikazu Koike), which provides products worldwide from the group's bases located in forty-four countries and regions, has announced that it has created the "Brother Earth", logo and slogan to symbolize the group's environmental activities.
Brother Group will use the new "Brother Earth" identity to convey group-wide messages about its global environmental protection activities on a global basis.

"Brother Earth" logo and slogan
The Brother Group "Global Charter" states "The Brother Group helps society achieve sustainable development, by positively and continuously considering the environmental impact of all aspects of our business operations". The group includes environmental considerations at all stages of its business activities: development of superior eco-friendly products, reduction of CO2 emissions and collection and recycling of consumables.
The Brother Group will use "Brother Earth" to convey unified messages created based on its various environmental protection activities. These will include the environmental performance of Brother products and group policies and activities These will be communicated using simple statements online, and in sales literature.

"Brother Earth" Statement
"Brother Earth" describes our positive attitude and commitment to our communities and our planet. Our goal is to play our part to help build a society where sustainable development can be achieved by continuously considering the environmental impact of all aspects of our business operations.
Brother considers the safety and environmental impact of our products at every stage of their lifecycle; from design, development and manufacturing through to customer usage and disposal. Brother is committed to creating eco-friendly products primarily focused on reducing energy consumption and CO2 emission, promoting collection and recycling, complying with chemical regulations and contributing to biodiversity conservation.
At Brother we will always take responsibility, act respectfully and try to make a positive difference.

Message from "Brother Earth" - "Working with you for a better environment."
This message signifies a sense of responsibility to protect our global environment and also the desire to consider environmental issues and take action together with all stakeholders such as customers. Brother will convey this unified message in each language of the group's locations or centers worldwide.

Design concept
The logo is designed to look like a tree. Each leaf represents a principal to value each factor of the global environment, while the circle of leaves symbolizes biological coexistence. The colors of the leaves express a fusion of the Earth's green and Brother's corporate color, blue.

Established "brotherearth.com"
Brother established "brotherearth.com" www.brotherearth.com
The English website has already been launched. The German, French, Italian, Spanish, Japanese and Chinese websites will be launched sequentially.
"brotherearth.com" provides a variety of content: "Click for the Earth" see below, and an environmental quiz to engage website visitors with environmental issues. The site also introduces environmental activities being undertaken by Brother across the world.

"Click for the Earth"
"Click for the Earth" at www.brotherearth.com gives visitors to the site the opportunity to select a project they wish to support from a range of environmental projects being undertaken by Brother. The individual clicks on their chosen project to activate a donation from Brother for that specific project. Amount of donation for each project is allocated from the total fund set every year based on the proportion of number of clicks. Anyone throughout the world can activate a click to help contribute to the environmental activities within the "Brother Earth" program.(* Click limited to one per person on the same day)

Original Source: Brother Formulated Logo and Slogan for Environmental Activities

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Caring for your Epson inkjet printer

2010-06-21T06:02:00.000-07:00

Preventive Maintenance
Regular cleaning and maintenance will go a long way toward extending the life of your printer. In general, your printer will not require much maintenance, but you should make it a practice to clean the outside whenever you replace the ink cartridge. Simply wipe it with a damp cloth, but be careful that no moisture gets inside the printer and be sure to disconnect the power before starting. If necessary, use a soft brush or a computer vacuum cleaner to remove lint and dust from the sheet feeder and paper path.
Placing a cover over the printer when it is not in use is a good idea in order to keep dust and foreign particles away from the print heads. Some ink residue may build up inside the housing. This is common and may be removed with a damp cloth. Never use alcohol, solvents or other cleaners as they may damage the printer. Also, do not use any lubricant on the metal rod that the print cartridge moves on. It is normal for the cradle to make noise when it is in motion.

On and Off
This may seem like a basic thing, turning a printer on and off… How can that be a
problem? It isn’t unless you turn it on and off from a power strip. Never do that. When you turn a printer off, it parks the heads in a very specific place. Shutting the printer down from a power strip may by pass the normal shut down procedure and the heads may not be parked properly. This can lead to the head drying out and becoming clogged.
If you use your printer on a daily basis, just leave it on. This is not a waste of energy as the printer uses minimal power in stand-by mode. You should turn the printer off if it is not going to be used for a few days. However, your printer
does work best when used regularly so it is recommended that you turn the printer on and make a small number of prints at least every seven to ten days.

Print Head Cleaning
Clogged print heads is one of the most common problems with ink jet printers. Typically, you’ll see streaks of colors or missing lines where ink did not penetrate the page. Cleaning the inkjet cartridges themselves may also improve the performance of your printer by correcting missing lines or dots and eliminating streaks on the paper. On Epson printers you can clean the print head in two ways:
1. On the printer - There is a cleaning button on the front of the printer (check your manual for the exact placement). Hold it down for three seconds and the unit will start the cleaning cycle.
2. Software - There is a head-cleaning utility built into the software that came with your Epson printer. For PCs, you may access it through the printer driver. Right-click on the printer icon in the Windows taskbar (or get to it through the Start menu, Settings, and Printers) and select Head Cleaning. For Macs, open the file menu and choose Page Setup or Print. Click the Utility and Head-Cleaning buttons and follow the on-screen instructions.
Whichever technique you choose, the printer will make some noise while it works. This is normal. The green power light will also flash while it is working. Be sure not to turn the printer off while it is cleaning the heads.
Once completed, you should use the head-cleaning utility to check the nozzles. Click on Print nozzle check pattern, then Print. If the resulting printed page is streaky, try cleaning again. If you do this a few times and it is still streaky, try turning the printer off and letting it sit overnight. This allows the dried ink to soften. Try cleaning it again the following day. You may also want to replace the ink cartridge. Be careful not to leave the cartridges lying out for more than 30 minutes, or the heads will dry up and the cartridges will be unusable.

Aligning the Print Head
You will only need to align the head if your prints show vertical lines that don’t connect. To align the print heads do the following:
Open the Printer Utilities, select print Print Head Adjustment, and follow the instructions on-screen.
For more information about cleaning your printer or aligning the print head, refer to your printer's user manual.

Original Source: Care 4 Your Printer Part 1

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Price increases – Samsung, Lexmark, Printronix

2010-06-17T03:58:00.000-07:00

Prices for Samsung, Lexmark, and Printronix supplies are scheduled to increase on 7/1/2010. The increases will be of 4-6% for Lexmark Supplies, 3-10% for Samsung Supplies, and 3.5% for Printronix supplies and cover respectively inkjet cartridges, laser toner cartridges, and printer ribbons. Take advantage of pre-increase pricing by making sure that your orders are processed and shipped by June 30th.

Original Source: Price increases – Samsung, Lexmark, Printronix

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HP Introduces the Future of Printing: Web Connected and Cloud Aware

2010-06-14T08:02:00.000-07:00

NEW YORK, June 7, 2010 – Hewlett Packard / HP today unveiled a new category of web-enabled printing solutions designed for the cloud that will, for the first time, allow people to:

* Print from any email device to any new ePrint-enabled printer from anywhere in the world through the new HP ePrint platform;
* Store documents or files in the cloud and print direct when needed;
* Transform their printers into publishing platforms from which they can customize print apps and schedule timed delivery of content – such as news from msnbc.com and Yahoo! and creative after-school activities from Disney – directly to their home or business printers;
* Manage and customize their full printing experience through the new HP ePrintCenter to enjoy relevant, fun and interesting content that is formatted for efficient printing.

Watch the conference below:

Watch live streaming video from hpkickoff at livestream.com

Original Source: HP Introduces the Future of Printing: Web Connected and Cloud Aware

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Ricoh Ranked Among The Top In U.S. Copier Market

2010-06-07T07:11:00.000-07:00

West Caldwell, NJ (April 2010) – In the annual Gartner U.S. copier market report for 2009, Ricoh Americas Corporation has been ranked number one for the third consecutive year in the combined black and white and color copier segment, earning a 23.1 percent share of the total market for multi-function products (MFPs). Ricoh also finished first for the seventh straight year in the color copier market with a 26.7 percent stake. For the black and white copier category, it finished a close second with a 21.5 percent market share. These percentages are calculated using total market share, which includes dealer, direct and retail products (Printer, Copier and MFP Quarterly Statistics United States: Database, Cindy K. Masaki, Federico DeSilva - February 17, 2010).

“Ricoh Americas Corporation is proud of our continued leadership position in the black-and-white and color copier market in the U.S., driven by the strength of our dealer channel and our direct sales organizations, Ricoh Business Solutions and IKON Office Solutions,” said Shun Sato, Senior Vice President, Marketing, Ricoh Americas Corporation.

Ricoh offers a full range of digital imaging products suited for any workgroup environment from SMB to Enterprise, including color and black and white multifunctional copiers, printers, facsimile systems, scanners, digital duplicators, wide format copiers and digital cameras.

Original Source: Ricoh Ranked Among The Top In U.S. Copier Market

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Canon USA Ranked Number-One In Total Copier Market Share In 2009

2010-05-10T06:18:00.000-07:00

Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in advanced digital imaging and office solutions, announced that the Company has earned the top position for total U.S. copier/MFP market share for 2009 with 18.4 percent of the market, according to Gartner's Printer, Copier and MFP Quarterly Statistics Database for fourth quarter 2009.

"Canon's commitment to developing advanced digital imaging solutions has made the Company the preferred choice of businesses seeking to improve productivity," said Junichi Yoshitake, senior vice president and general manager, Imaging Systems Group, Canon U.S.A. "Through innovative technologies that enhance end-user performance and extraordinary customer service, Canon continues to move business forward and help end-users navigate the changing economic landscape."

Gartner's research focused on market share for color and black-and-white copiers/MFPs of both digital and analog technology, including personal copiers (1-10 pages-per-minute (ppm)) and copiers in Segments 1-6, which range in speed from 11 to 91+ ppm.

About Canon U.S.A., Inc.
Canon U.S.A., Inc., is a leading provider of consumer, business-to-business, and industrial digital imaging solutions. Its parent company, Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ), a top patent holder of technology, ranked fourth overall in the U.S. in 2009†, with global revenues of US $35 billion, is listed as number four in the computer industry on Fortune Magazine's World's Most Admired Companies 2009 list, and is on the 2009 BusinessWeek list of "100 Best Global Brands." Canon U.S.A. is committed to the highest levels of customer satisfaction and loyalty, providing 100 percent U.S.-based consumer service and support for all of the products it distributes. At Canon, we care because caring is essential to living together in harmony. Founded upon a corporate philosophy of Kyosei – "all people, regardless of race, religion or culture, harmoniously living and working together into the future" – Canon U.S.A. supports a number of social, youth, educational and other programs, including environmental and recycling initiatives. Additional information about these programs can be found at www.usa.canon.com/kyosei. To keep apprised of the latest news from Canon U.S.A., sign up for the Company's RSS news feed by visiting www.usa.canon.com/rss.

Original Source: CANON U.S.A. RANKED NUMBER-ONE IN TOTAL COPIER MARKET SHARE IN 2009

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HP profit slumps 13% on weak PC and ink sales

2010-05-03T06:58:00.000-07:00

San Francisco: Hewlett-Packard Co.’s quarterly profit dropped 13%, and sales ticked up just 1%, as even the technology company’s cash-cow printer ink business was hobbled by the recession.

The world’s top seller of personal computers also cut its 2009 guidance, but it was still in line with Wall Street’s expectations.

HP shares fell $2.03, or 6%, to $32.05 in extended trading, after closing down 26 cents during the regular trading session, before the Palo Alto-based company reported its earnings.

Crippled technology spending undermined all but one of HP’s major business lines, including PCs and servers. Only HP’s services division, which bulked up with its $13.9 billion acquisition of Electronic Data Systems, saw an increase.

Services also have been strong for rival IBM Corp., since corporations are trying to save money by outsourcing some of their technology chores.

HP earned $1.85 billion, or 75 cents per share, in the three months that ended 31 January. That compares with profit of $2.13 billion, or 80 cents per share, a year ago.

Without one-time costs, HP earned 93 cents per share, matching analyst estimates.

HP’s sales of $28.8 billion fell short of Wall Street’s forecast by more than $3 billion, however. Analysts were expecting $31.9 billion in revenue. Without currency fluctuations, HP said its quarterly sales increased 4% over last year instead of the 1% rise with the currency fluctuations.

“Investors could be shaken by this report, and it could cause some of them to move to the sidelines,” said Calyon Securities analyst Shebly Seyrafi. HP still gets “a relatively high percentage of its business from hardware, and that hardware side is going to be very vulnerable in this economic environment.”

The pain of tighter budgets was felt across nearly all of HP’s businesses.

Sales in the personal computer division fell 19% to $8.8 billion.

The printer and ink division, which contributes more than 40 percent of HP’s operating profit, was also wounded, with sales falling 19 percent to $6 billion. That includes a 7 percent decline in supplies, a typically strong area that includes things like ink cartridges, which are among HP’s biggest moneymakers.

But HP’s services division more than doubled to $8.7 billion, mostly due to the addition of EDS. HP is cutting 24,600 jobs as part of that deal, and has already cut more than 9,000 of those positions.

Cathie Lesjak, HP’s chief financial officer, said the decline in ink sales was a “reflection of a very tough economy _ in a tough economy folks don’t print as much,” a trend HP expects to continue and has baked into its 2009 guidance. HP is banking on the services business to pick up some of the slack.

“In the past, (the printer and ink) division has probably been the crown jewel of Hewlett-Packard, but today we’ve got another one, and that’s services,” she said in an interview. “It was the services resilience, and the profits that services generated in (the first quarter), that more than offset the declines in the hardware business.”

HP predicted that it would earn between $3.76 and $3.88 per share in 2009, excluding one-time costs. Analysts polled by Thomson Reuters were expecting profit of $3.77 per share on that basis.

The financial crisis has mauled PC sales for all the big manufacturers, but HP managed to eke out some gains last year. HP owned nearly a fifth of the worldwide PC market in 2008, having expanded its lead over rivals Dell Inc., Acer Inc., Lenovo Group Ltd. and Toshiba Corp., according to the latest data from research firm IDC.

Jayson Noland, an analyst with Robert W. Baird & Co., said HP is “doing an admirable job of cost cutting in a tough environment.”

“You have to give them credit for the bottom line, which has held up really well given the top-line numbers,” he said.

HP revealed during a conference call with analysts that it is cutting employees’ pay in a moneysaving move.

Chief Executive Mark Hurd’s base pay will fall by 20%, other executives will see their pay decline by as much as 15%, while pay for other employees will decline by as much as 5%.

The company says employees will get the money back in the form of bonuses if HP performs well.

Original Source: HP profit slumps 13% on weak PC and ink sales

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HP Drawn Into German Kickbacks Investigation

2010-04-26T06:20:00.000-07:00

Three one-time employees of HP were arrested by German officials, investigating alleged kickbacks paid in connection with an HP contract for Russian law enforcement equipment, according to The New York Times.

Hewlett-Packard is cooperating with German and Russian authorities after news that three people who worked in a Germany office of the California-based PC manufacturer were arrested by German authorities.

The arrests came as part of an investigation into “alleged kickbacks paid in connection with a contract to supply equipment to Russian law enforcement,” The New York Times reported April 15.

The kickbacks are said to have occurred from 2000 to possibly 2007 and totaled approximately $10.9 million.

The Times quoted a spokesperson for the Dresden state’s attorney’s office who said that two of the people no longer worked for HP, but he was unclear about the third. An HP spokesperson in Switzerland declined to offer clarification, according to the Times.

The investigation included nine individuals in all. In addition to the three affliated with HP, three Russians and three Germans, said to have worked as middlemen for smaller firms, were also involved. Though the Times reports that they have not been arrested.

“This is an investigation of alleged conduct that occurred almost seven years ago, largely by employees no longer with HP," a spokesperson for HP told eWEEK. "We are cooperating fully with the German and Russian authorities and will continue to conduct our own internal investigation.”

While HP is the leading PC manufacturer both worldwide and in the United States, it began 2010 with growth below the worldwide average, according to April 14 reports from Gartner and IDC. While HP improved worldwide sales by 19.9 percent between the first quarters of 2009 and 2010, Acer grew its shipments by 54.3 percent, Lenovo saw 59.2 percent growth and Asus posted an impressive 114.8 percent growth.

Original Source: HP Drawn Into German Kickbacks Investigation

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Lexmark Laser Technology Presentation

2010-04-19T05:57:00.000-07:00

Learn how Lexmark laser printer technology works in this video from n-tara interactive. The complexities of laser printing are simplified using highly informative 3D animation.

Found on YouTube

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Inkjet cartridge trick that can Save A Lot of Money

2010-04-06T05:49:00.000-07:00

Question: When my printer shows the ink cartridge as empty is it really empty?

Answer: Many manufacturers have installed small chips onto the cartridges to perform certain checks of the printer system. One of these functions is to monitor the remaining ink supply so they can sell you more ink and market their product directly to you. Many times the "low ink warning system" is not a very accurate program.

Watch this video and maybe you can improve the accuracy of the ink monitoring system.

Original video source: A Handy Trick to Get More from Your Inkjet Cartridges

Remember the money you save is YOUR MONEY.

You can as well save a lot of money by buying compatible or remanufactured inkjet cartridges and toner from Priceless Ink & Toner

Lexmark eyed as a takeover candidate - Company won't comment on speculation

2010-03-29T07:37:00.000-07:00

Bank of America has identified Lexington-based Lexmark International as a possible candidate for a leveraged buyout.

The printer maker was one of a handful of companies listed by the bank's researchers as possible targets for these types of deals, which involve taking on debt to help finance the acquisition.

It's another in a long series of rumors during the past several years of possible outside interest in buying Lexmark, which develops and manufactures laser and inkjet printers.

Lexmark spokesman Jerry Grasso said the company declines to comment on rumors and speculation, or on its stock.

The company's stock price has risen dramatically in recent months. In the middle of last year, the stock was hovering around $15 a share. On Tuesday, it closed at $36.82, up 5.53 percent from Monday.

The fact that the stock is trading at its 52-week high makes it attractive.

"These types of deals occur at market tops", said Tom Carpenter, vice president and senior equity analyst at Hilliard Lyons in Louisville.

Carpenter also noted Lexmark has significantly improved its printers during the past couple of years and focused on segments in which people print more.
Lexmark also is attractive, he said, because of the company's cash rese
rves, which are about $15 a share. A drawback, though, is the company's roughly $8 a share of long-term debt.

A great deal of the company's cash is overseas, and that has prevented Lexmark from bringing it to the United States to finance continued repurchases of its stock, because the company would face certain taxes to bring it back. Carpenter said he doubts the overseas money would be a barrier to the deal because "there are people smart enough to find a way around that."

Carpenter said the biggest barrier might be deciding on a price. He said a 25 percent to 30 percent premium on the stock price "would be a home run for shareholders."

He said any number of private equity firms might be interested in Lexmark. Private equity firms use the money invested by their clients to acquire stakes in other companies.

Before the recession, the number of buyouts of publicly traded companies by private equity firms had risen substantially. Generally, a private equity group operates the company for a time, seeks to make it more efficient and then sells the company or parts of it for a profit. The recession slowed down that movement, but Bank of America analysts noted in their report that the deals might return and be smaller in scope, perhaps less than $10 billion.

Lexmark's market capitalization is close to $3 billion.

Private equity firms also tend to eye companies with recurring revenue, which Lexmark boasts, Carpenter said. The company has recently announced some major deals to manage printing for large firms, including regional bank BB&T.

"The managed print services wins are very important because they are predictable recurring revenue streams, and investors and private equity firms love recurring revenue," Carpenter said.

The company already has a history with private equity. It was initially owned by a private equity firm — Clayton, Dubilier & Rice Inc. — when it was spun off from IBM in 1991. The company went public in 1995, and the buyout firm sold its last shares in 1998.

Original Source: Lexmark eyed as a takeover candidate

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