Fujifilm Australia is set for a major assault on the graphic arts workflow market in 2015, with major new upgrades to its XMF workflow in version 6 and the first deployment of Adobe’s new Mercury Rip Architecture.
Additionally, XMF Remote R10 will allow remote previewing and proofing of jobs over the internet using HTML 5.
XMF V6 includes the Adobe PDF Print Engine 3 (APPE3) and, together with Mercury RIP Architecture, the boosted workflow achieves dramatic improvements in file processing times – so important in these days of short runs, frequent job changes and multiple output devices including digital and offset.
Fujifilm’s recently appointed Product Manager, Plates, CtP and Workflow, Richard Ramirez says: “One significant advantage of XMF V6 is that the system can conduct load balancing by processing each page of a single job simultaneously during rendering. This results in higher processing speeds to maximise the utilisation of system resources, which in turn deliver significant productivity improvements when outputting pages to a digital press or when producing variable output.
“XMF V6 also harnesses the Mercury RIP Architecture to allow parallel processing of multiple jobs and achieve a processing capability up to ten times greater than previous systems, although the exact ratio depends on the operating environment. Also, different orders of priority can be assigned to different processes and it is possible to actively adjust the resource allocation for each respective process. “
Ramirez adds that the ability to efficiently process multiple jobs in XMF V6 allows printing companies to utilise their various output devices more effectively. Even in the event where the output to a platesetter, proofer or digital printer overlaps, the system can reduce processing ‘standby time’ to a minimum, ensuring that each output device is used efficiently.
Fewer Rips, more control & Remote
A single XMF unit is capable of executing a volume of RIP processing equivalent to five platesetters (e.g. Luxel T-9800, 67 plates per hour each). This means that number of RIP devices can be greatly reduced, resulting in easier management and lower costs. It also means that the results of the job will always be consistent – even if produced on different output devices – resulting in a totally reliable workflow.
The XMF Remote R10 module is equipped with HTML 5 compatibility for all functions used by the client. This means that even when the use of Java is not possible for security or other reasons, complete XMF Remote functionality is available. As it is not necessary to download the Java application, start-up time is also shorter. The Express Job function is designed for work with new customers and one-off jobs, allowing customers to participate in a job simply by registering their email address but without registering an account. A simple procedure allows online data submission, proofing and approval services, which means that XMF Remote can now be used for a wide range of applications. iPads can be used for proofing, allowing customers to issue instructions for proofing and confirm changes on-the-go.
“In 2015, we will be in a position to offer local demonstrations of XMF V6 and this is really the only way to fully appreciate its power. It is, without question, the most powerful and versatile workflow I have ever experienced,” concludes Ramirez.
Fujifilm Australia
www.fujifilm.com.au