OEMs Suspend Plant Operations in Japan

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

Visit our web store for high quality OEM and compatible inkjet cartridges, laser toner cartridges and printing ribbons.

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

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

Visit our web store for high quality HP inkjet cartridges & HP laser toner cartridges

Xerox to Stop Selling Wide-Format Products

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

Visit our web store for high quality Xerox laser toner cartridges, copier supplies and solid ink sitcks

OKI Introduces Bioplastic in Printers and MFPs Part

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

Visit our web store for high quality OKI Laser Toner Cartridges & MFP supplies.

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

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

Visit our web store for high quality Canon inkjet cartridges and laser toner cartridges

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

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

Visit our web store for high quality Okidata printer ribbons, laser toner cartridges and inkjet cartridges

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

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

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

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

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.

Visit our web store for high quality Epson inkjet cartridges & Epson laser toner cartridges.

Samsung Mobile Printing Solution makes printing truly mobile

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.

Visit our web store for high quality Samsung laser toner cartridges & printer supplies.

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

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.

Visit our web store for high quality Kodak printer cartridges and supplies.

Konica Minolta Launches Clean Planet Recycling Program

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."

Read more

Original source: Konica Minolta Launches Clean Planet Recycling Program

Visit our web store for high quality Konica Minolta Laser Toner Cartridges & other printer supplies.

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

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

Visit our web store for high quality Toshiba laser toner cartridges and more copier supplies.

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

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

Visit our web store for high quality Epson inkjet cartridges, laser toner cartridges & printer ribbons.

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

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

Read more

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

Visit our web store for high quality Canon inkjet cartridges & laser toner cartridges

Dell, HP and IBM Named Greenest Companies

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

Visit our web store for high quality Dell, HP & IBM inkjet cartridges, laser toner cartridges & many more printing supplies.

Lexmark Invites Developers to Build AIO Printer Apps

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.

Read more

Original source: Lexmark Invites Developers to Build AIO Printer Apps

Visit our web store for high quality Lexmark inkjet cartridges and laser toner cartridges

Printer Companies Flunk Recycling

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

Visit our store for high quality compatible and remanufactured inkjet cartridges, laser toner cartridges and more printing supplies.

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

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

Visit our store for high quality Ricoh Laser Toner Cartridges

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

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

Visit our store for high quality Xerox laser toner cartridges and inkjet cartridges.

HP Unveils Print Solutions, Including 10 Industry-First Innovations

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.

Read more

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

Visit our store for high quality HP inkjet cartridges & HP laser toner cartridges.

History of Computer Printers & Typewriters

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

Visit our store for high quality printer cartridges and typewritre ribbons.

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

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

Visit our store for high quality Konica Milnolta laser toner cartridges and printer supplies.