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Benet to perform at Music Hall - Detroit Free Press

Benet to perform at Music Hall
Detroit Free Press
313-887-8500. $49.75-$79.75. A version of this story appears on page 10A of the Saturday, Nov. 7, 2009, print edition of the Detroit Free Press. ...

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The small print looms larger - Washington Post

Washington Post

The small print looms larger
Washington Post
Now that the credit card industry is required to warn you about any changes they're planning, you should be scrutinizing what you think is only junk mail. ...

Luxel T-6000 evolution

We want to buy a Fuji Luxel and actually focused on two offers which seem to be interesting (both have about the same laser-runtime): 1.) Luxel T-6000 E (2004 model) 2.) Luxel T-6000 MKIII (2006 model) I think 2.) comes with 32 laser diodes, but besides, what are the main differences, if theres any? Initially I thought the MK III is based on the Screen PT/R 4300, I guess its not. Both CtPs are planned to run with processfree plates (Brillia-HD). 1.) comes with the latest HQ RIP whereas 2.) runs with Celebrant 6 (Dongle 5672 incl. trapping) and has an additional single autoloader and Heidelberg punch. 2.) is about 15% more expensive than 1.) and is already over our investment limit. However, since the prices are very close I thought about spending some more and getting a newer system - if it really makes sense. Fuji replaced the Celebrant with XMF which is very expensive for a small business like us and I was more aiming for the HQ which offers a bit more independence for future upgrades of the workflow, or am I wrong? I'm excited about critical comments on both options. Thank you, Steffen

Police: SC baby sitter hit slain child with belt

Authorities say a baby sitter in South Carolina watching a 3-year-old girl who died in her care beat the girl with a belt after she used the bathroom on the floor.

You've seen the TV ads. So what is Ally Bank? - The Associated Press

The Associated Press

You've seen the TV ads. So what is Ally Bank?
The Associated Press
... Its TV and print ads poke fun at the bait-and-switch tactics of other banks. Its interest rates on CDs have been the most generous in the industry. ...

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Iloveprint.ca aims to attract young people to the business - PrintCan

Iloveprint.ca aims to attract young people to the business
PrintCan
TORONTO—Heather Black says the inspiration to start Iloveprint.ca, a website devoted to bringing young people into the printing industry came from a need to ...

PIA Ben Franklin Honor Society Presents the 2009 Frederick D. Kagy Education Award

Final call

So... one whole year of my unemployment just passed. For that year, I hope, I deserved at this forum my reputation as experienced Prepress technical specialist and was helpful for some of you. And now I want to ask the same question: Is any employer in here interested in my skills and experience? AGFA, ABDick/Scanview, ECRM, Heidelberg, Screen, Fuji imagesetters, RIPs and processors; CTP, color-proof plotters and CMS. Installation, de-installation, refurbishing, Prev. Maintenance, field service calls and repairs, spare-parts management and other duties. Any replays will be very much appreciated.

The email flip to prepress....? ugh!

Hey everyone How do you guys handle the email flip, or maybe this only happens in the shop I work at. Basically production/planing/CSR forwards a email from the customer to prepress and excepts us to interpret the info and do the work. Most of the time it is a change to a file, and most of the time they do not tell us what docket it is for. Even if a production person comes into prepress they still do not update the actual info. If I ask the question about updating the docket I am told did I get the email. I dunno am I out of my tree on this, or is this the new way of printing? oq

Is Prinergy Dead? Kodak Says No

We’ve been getting many calls and emails about a post over at Prepress Pilgrim. Rumors were swirling that Kodak was shutting down Prinergy development and laying everyone off at the Willingdon Avenue plant in Burnaby British Columbia, Canada. We received the following statement from Kodak yesterday: To set the record straight: Prinergy is alive [...]

Web to Print Consulting Service

Hi all, We are a 29 years well-established commercial printing and packaging company in Orange County, California set up an E-commerce subsidiary. We are looking for a moon light consultant, who is well experienced in management level of the web-to-print business and can provide consulting service in SEO and/or auto preflight of artwork. Please contact us at sales@businessimageprinting.com. Thank you very much for your time! :)

ICEserver

Has anyone tested the ICEserver. Claims of ink reduction & wider gamut? Just curious if anyone has tested this product and any feed back? New product from Fine Eye Color.

Arandell Corp. Adopts BCC Software

BCC Software, a BA-WE BELL + HOWELL company and a leading developer of high-performance mailing technology solutions, announces that Arandell Corporation, one of North America's largest privately held web offset printing companies, has joined the BCC family thanks to the comprehensive capabilities of Mail Manager Full Servicea , BCC's top-tier ...

Piggott Black Bear managing director Simon Singleton resigns

Piggott Black Bear (PBB) managing director Simon Singleton has resigned from the company and its parent Celinco and joined Swan Print in Bedford.

Low Resolution Gets Thumbs Up for Halloween Costume, Thumbs Down for Digital Printing

KindaCarsick's blogger dressed up as "Low Resolution Lady" for Halloween this year. Her costume is pure genius; it's been a long time since I have seen a costume this creative! When it comes to digital printing, however, low resolution is...

Printing Office » Blog Archive » ASBL: The Obama Adminstration's ...

Printing Industry News. Courier reports 10% decline on 4Q Revenues · Fujifilm President and CEO honored by his Imperial Majesty, The Emperor of Japan · American Reprographics Company reports results for third quarter 2009 ...

Neenah Paper Introduces Eco-Calculator App for Apple iPhone and iPod Touch

Duplo Spearheads Finishing Market with New Knife Folding Option for Its Creaser Product Range

Royal Mail modernisation 'must happen', says DMA

The Direct Mail Association (DMA) has warned that the industry is "not out of the water yet", despite the postponement of postal strikes thanks to an interim agreement reached by the Royal Mail and the Communication Workers Union (CWU).

DIGITAL PRESS MANAGER & DIGITAL HP INDIGO PRESS OPERATOR - California

Digital HP Indigo Press Operator Requirements: • Ideal candidate will have previous experience in setting up and running HP Indigo equipment and files • Clean and maintain assigned equipment to ensure its optimum operation • 2+ years experience operating HP Indigo, OCE, iGen presses • HP Indigo certified • Strong

Unite proposes strike action at Iggesund mill in Cumbria

Unite members at the Iggesund papermill in Workington are balloting for strike action over the company's handling of 99 proposed redundancies.

Manroland sheetfed sales director Gary Doman in abrupt departure

Manroland GB has abruptly parted company with long-serving sheetfed sales director Gary Doman, after he left his role at the group last week.

Limetree slashes water and chemistry usage with switch to Fuji's Pro-V plate

Limetree Offset has switched from Fuji's LP-NV plate to its low-chemistry Brillia HD Pro-V and significantly reduced its environmental impact.

Direct Mail Sales Rep - New York

For our client's Direct Marketing division, we are seeking a successful sales executive for the New York City. COMPENSATION: Open - compensation will depend on experience, client relationships and any potential book of business. Non-recoverable draw for the first year to 18 months. There is no cap on compensation. Ex

Account Executive - Pennsylvania

Innovative printing company specializing in digital asset management and print production is currently seeking an account executive with a proven background of sales or business development in a graphic arts or printing organization. Reporting to the President, the position will be focused on growing the company b

Worldcolor, Macmillan strike deal

November 05, 2009, 7:24 AM / Worldcolor has signed a multiyear agreement with Macmillan to print an estimated 800 million books over the life of the deal.

Design Co-ordinator - Bizcommunity.com

Design Co-ordinator
Bizcommunity.com
You must be able to produce print ready files for printers. Ample knowledge of the printing industry and printing logistics. ...

Fujifilm President and CEO honored by his Imperial Majesty, The Emperor of Japan

VALHALLA, N.Y. – Fujifilm today announced that Shigetaka Komori, president and CEO, FUJIFILM Holdings Corporation, received the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star. The Order

Print CEO: Is Prinergy Dead? Kodak Says No

Printing Industries Press launches new Prepress Skills Training Curriculum

Pittsburgh, PA - Printing Industries Press is pleased to announce a new addition to its wealth of training materials, Prepress Skills Training Curriculum, by Joe Marin. Marin, senior analyst, digit

Courier reports 10% decline on 4Q Revenues

NORTH CHELMSFORD, Mass.-- Courier Corporation, one of America's leading book manufacturers and specialty publishers, today announced fourth-quarter and full-year results for its fiscal year ended S

Intelicoat Technologies introduces new eco-friendly packaging

SOUTH HADLEY – InteliCoat Technologies, a world leader in the manufacture of coated paper, film, and specialty substrates for digital imaging applications, today introduced that it will be tr

Paper Expert Releases Free E-book on How to Reduce Paper Costs

Top News: PODi Offers Members New End-to-End Self Promotional Campaign

Service providers can use this easy, cost effective tool to generate leads and build more business

Cal Poly Interactive Print Survey

Jeanne Ngo and Amy McGiven, seniors in Cal Poly’s Graphic Communication are conducting a senior project to investigate the trend and role of interactive print in today’s graphic communication industry. The researchers write: For this study, the term “interactive print” pertains to any print technologies that drive the end user to take action online, from a cell [...]

Sustainable Minds Releases New, Web-Based Life Cycle Assessment Software

Software and information services company Sustainable Minds has debuted its life cycle assessment (LCA) software, a Web-based program intended to help companies make greener design choices and understand the impacts of products and their parts.

CSR - Minnesota

Job Title:Print Bkd CSR with key client skillsShift Hours:Day shift M-FExperience (machine/mode/software):Our client is seeking a 5 year veteran of print related CSR. Able to work with key clients on their projects as they move through the production stages of a Screen and flexographic print environment. Must have soli

Duplicators - California

Press OperatorHeidelberg Sormz - 2C 2029Looking for someone who can come in and run Heidbelberg Sormz 2C - no training. This is an on-call flex position.Location - Morgan HillDuration - as needed - openPay - DOEOnly those with the required experience who are currentlyresiding in the area, and that can legally work in t

Deputies seize $60K in pot

Limestone County Sheriff Mike Blakely, center, shows a stash of some 48 pounds of marijuana, two handguns and $3,500 in cash confiscated from an east Athens home Wednesday.

Green printing TEST - CGarchitect.com

The printing industry has been dubbed the high pollution caps, when will it be picked? In terms of the printing process, print out the film to go.

Spinnaker Coating adds to tamper-evident product line

Spinnaker Coating has added a new product to its SafeTE line of tamper-evident constructions. White Void Polyester is a film engineered to show tamper evidence by leaving the word ‘VOID’ in a diagonal pattern on the substrate and label when removed. It is claimed to have excellent tear strength, chemical resistance and heat resistance.

This material is paired with SFA, an acrylic adhesive specifically designed for film facestocks. It reportedly offers high ultimate adhesion to a variety of substrates. Void polyester can be printed by thermal transfer and flexo.. Typical applications include warranty labels, door/packaging seals, calibration stickers and pharmaceutical products.

Click here for more stories about Spinnaker Coating on L&L.com.

Consolidated Graphics Reports Q3 Sales Down 15%

Consolidated Graphics, Inc. today announced financial results for the quarter ended September 30, 2009.

IN: IDEM to offer new pollution prevention grant to help reduce toxic chemical use

To encourage Indiana manufacturers to identify opportunities that can reduce pollution, conserve raw materials and save money, the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) is offering industry and communities free, confidential pollution prevention opportunity assessments. New to the program is a special impetus to encourage the reduction of toxic chemicals and the opportunity to receive funding for qualifying projects.

This year, IDEM was awarded funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to fund pollution prevention grants that reduce toxics in Indiana. Indiana facilities with ideas for pollution prevention projects, including those identified by an assessment, are eligible to submit a pre-application for an Indiana Pollution Prevention Grant by June 11, 2010.

Stork to show rotary screen printing products at Labelexpo Asia

At Labelexpo Asia in Shanghai on stand E16, Stork Prints will show its range of rotary screen printing equipment and narrow web flexo sleeves.

The company offers a range of modular printing units, based on its Rotary Screen Integration (RSI) technology. The RSI Compact has a repeat size range of 12” to 18”, and available widths of 10” and 13”. Working above the mainframe of the press, the unit is easily repositioned in the printing sequence with the help of an optional sliding rail, and reaches speeds of up to 328 fpm (100 m/min).

Stork Prints’ EasyFit lightweight ‘cassette’ format rotary screen printing modules are designed for modular hybrid presses, where different processes can be interchanged with each other at any stage in the printing sequence. Typically under 27kg, they are light enough to be set up manually, and are ideal for situations where fast-changeovers are essential. Make-ready times are as low as ten minutes. Adjustable support bearings allow fast repeat-size changeover within a restricted environment, without the need for recalibration.

Other rotary screen highlights at the Stork Prints stand will include the re-engraveable RotaMesh screen for the RSI systems, and the re-usable RotaPlate screen for non-Stork Prints systems. Both feature the ultra-stable electroformed pure-nickel construction, offering easy handling, high stability and resistance to breakage at relatively high speeds.

Stork Prints will also showcase its narrow web flexo sleeves by AKL Flexo Technik, which has recently introduced its program of tough, hard- and soft-coated mounting sleeves for narrow web applications to the Chinese market. Suited to the latest generation flexo printing systems, the sleeves offer stable, slippage-free printing, and assured total indicator readings (TIR) of within 15 µm, even under extreme humidity and heat.

Click here for more stories about Stork on L&L.com.

Baker to offer over-laminating option from 3M

Baker Self Adhesive Materials has added 3M’s Emtech textured vinyl to its range of over-laminates for label printing. The material is a flexible and conformable clear vinyl stock that offers both durability and moisture resistance.

Offered as a cost-effective option to Velvet Lexan, the Emtech product is a decorative overlaminate suitable for the production of labels intended for indoor use on durable goods such as power tools, equipment and machinery. A high clarity permanent adhesive is used to provide good initial tack, optimized die-cutting properties, minimal cold flow and good UV resistance.

Emtech is suitable for high speed labeling applications where strength and calliper control are important and complies with CFR 175.105 recommendations for indirect contact when used in food packaging.

Baker Self Adhesive Materials is an official HP Indigo treatment center. It is also an appointed distribution center for 3M, Fasson, Madico, Arjobex and Tyvek. Its affiliate, Baker Self Adhesive Label, prints and converts labels using flexography, letterpress or digital printing technology and also offers screen and wide format digital print capability.

Click here for more stories about Baker Self Adhesive Materials on L&L.com.

Pamarco appoints new technical sales agent

Pamarco Global Graphics has appointed ALHU International as its technical sales representative in Texas and New Mexico. ALHU was formed in 1981 and is located in El Paso, Texas. Its expertise and quality of service has been an asset to Pamarco in Mexico, Latin America and the Caribbean for the past 12 years.

The company will be represented by Dax and Brad Hughes; together, the two have over 35 years of combined experience in the flexographic printing industry. ‘Because of their current relationship and knowledge of Pamarco’s products and processes, the Hughes team, along with rest of the staff at ALHU, will be a valuable addition to the Pamarco US sales team,’ said a spokesperson for Pamarco in a statement.

Click here for more stories about Pamarco Global Graphics on L&L.com.

XMPie Twitter Campaign Takes One Extra Step…Too Far?

I have to admit that I merely scanned a recent announcement by XMPie about a Twitter promotion they are running to highlight their presence at MediaPro 09. It wasn’t until I received an email from a reader this morning that I took a closer look. Details on how the campaign works can be found at [...]

Product Labels: Still the Best Technology

I was brushing my teeth this morning and looking at all the products on our bathroom countertop. My wife had been cleaning out our cabinets so everything was on the counter. I was struck by how many product labels I...

Should We Recycle Everything?

Recycling has become the law in San Francisco. Residents who fail to recycle and compost will face warnings and, eventually, a fine. It's part of the city's goal to eliminate waste altogether. But, as Amy Standen reports, recycling and composting can only take us so far. (Radio report, 3 minutes, 23 seconds)

Prati signs Germany distribution deal with Nilpeter

Prati has bolstered its European sales operation by signing a distribution agreement with Nilpeter. The partnership will see Nilpeter distribute Prati’s label finishing machines in Germany, as well as provide technical and customer service support in the region.

‘Prati’s finishing machines complement our printing systems perfectly,’ said Andreas Höfner, sales manager for Germany, Nilpeter.

Chiara Prati, sales director at Prati, added: ‘Nilpeter has an excellent reputation for customer service and a large customer base in Germany. The new partnership means we’re perfectly placed to develop new commercial opportunities and increase our market share in the territory.’

Click here for more stories about Prati on L&L.com.

Click here for more stories about Nilpeter on L&L.com.

Three converters win Best Workplace awards

Three US label converting companies have won the distinction of being among the “Best of the Best Workplaces in America” for 2009, as judged by the Printing Industries of America (PIA). They are Smyth Companies, St. Paul, MN; Tailored Label Products, Menomonee Falls, WI; and Label World, Rochester, NY.

A total of 37 graphic arts companies, both members of PIA as well as non-members, were selected by a committee of human relations experts from within the industry. The program is designed to recognize graphic arts companies for their outstanding human relations efforts which contribute to a successful workplace.

Entries are judged on the company’s management practices, work environment, training and development opportunities, recognition and rewards, workplace health and safety, health and wellness, financial security, and work/life balance. The awards are presented on two levels: Best Workplaces in America, and Best of the Best. A total of 21 companies received the designation Best of the Best, while 16 earned Best Workplace honors.

Label World has won Best of the Best for seven out of the past eight years, and has also earned a Best Workplace award. For Tailored Label Products, this marks the fourth year of recognition, and the company has received similar recognition in the greater Milwaukee area. “We have our team’s best interest each and every day,” says President Mike Erwin. “As I have heard most of my business life, if you take care of your people, the rest will take care of itself. That includes providing supportive leadership, sincere recognition, and reliable business execution.”

“Being recognized with this award publicly confirms what our company privately practices every day,” says John Hickey, CEO of Smyth Companies. “I am very proud of Smyth’s employee-focused culture, as it reflects what is truly meaningful to ownership and management at Smyth. All our stakeholders are rewarded for this focus.”

Multi-Plastics to acquire extrusion facilities from Reynolds Packaging

Multi-Plastics Inc., a supplier of film products to the printing and packaging industries, intends to purchase two extrusion facilities from Reynolds Packaging, Lincolnshire, IL, USA. The plants, known as Reynolds Packaging KAMA, are in Hazelton, PA, USA, and Avenel, NJ, USA. They will be known as Multi-Plastics Extrusions Inc.

Multi-Plastics, based in Lewis Center, OH, USA, has partnered with KAMA for more than 30 years to distribute polystyrene to the envelope and label industries. The acquisition, according to John R. Parsio Sr., Multi-Plastics’ founder, will establish it as “the only manufacturer of biaxially oriented polystyrene film and sheet to be vertically integrated from polymerization through extrusion and distribution.”

In addition to OPS sheet, this introduces Multi-Plastics to the thermoforming industry as a merchant supplier of various PET, A/R PET, PETG, and co-extruded structures.

“Our exceptional service and knowledgeable team have always worked with our customers to understand their individualized application needs,” Parsio says. “Today we can do so from the manufacturer’s perspective. It is an exciting time in the history of our company, and we look forward to expanding the product offerings we can bring to our current and future customers worldwide.

CRC announces full compatibility with Windows 7

CRC Information Systems, Scottsdale, AZ, USA, has announced that its MIS/ERP system Nucleus is fully compatible with the latest Microsoft operating system, Windows 7. As a member of the Microsoft Developer Network, CRC receives early releases of Microsoft products. For several months CRC has been testing Nucleus on the new Windows 7 platform and says that Nucleus users who upgrade to the new operating system will have a smooth transition.

“Nucleus is designed to anticipate and embrace new technologies as they become available,” says Michael Bihlmeier, director of CRC. “Our partnerships with companies such as Microsoft help CRC deliver the very best tools to our customers.”

CRC’s Nucleus is designed to provide the tools and information needed to streamline workflow and maximize profitability. Nucleus includes customizable dashboards, industry specific estimating, extensive reporting, browser-based CRM, complete accounting package, drag-and-drop production scheduling, comprehensive inventory management, and a fully integrated e-Commerce suite.

KPG forms partnership with SMAG Graphique

KPG Corporation, formerly Ko-Pack, has announced a newly formed partnership with SMAG Graphique, a French manufacturer of high-end finishing equipment for the digital and self-adhesive label and flexible packaging industries. KPG will be representing SMAG’s products in North America.

SMAG offers a line of finishing technologies to enhance and customize preprinted rolls. These include roll-to-roll, inspection and converting, post-digital printing, flat-screen printing, foil-stamping, and flatbed and semi-rotary diecutting.

John Warwick, president of KPG Corporation, says, “KPG is excited to introduce SMAG’s technology to US and Canadian printing markets. With its high-end finishing equipment, we anticipate an enthusiastic response from ambitious printers with a sharp eye on consumer growth and strengthening their position within the marketplace.”

KPG, based in Williston, VT, USA, also represents Nuova Gidue, an Italian manufacturer of narrow web presses.

Apex partners with Pitman in narrow web anilox market

Anilox supplier Apex North America and Pitman Company have announced that Pitman will distribute Apex’s Unifli 2G anilox rolls to the US narrow web market. Apex is based in Donora, PA, USA; Pitman is in Totowa, NJ, USA.

“I am excited to be partnered with a reputable organization like Pitman that will distribute and support our anilox technology,” says John Batistatos, North American sales director at Apex. “Our product lines go hand and hand, but the most important factor is the service that Pitman will provide to our customers. Apex’s vision is to provide high quality anilox technology along with unmatched technical support so Pitman is the perfect choice to help us achieve this goal.”

Apex recently launched its Narrow Web Division in Donora, and stocks more than 40 different narrow web rolls that are pre-coated and ready for five-day delivery.

“This important relationship launches a new era that will expand Pitman’s ability to provide our customers with best-in-class anilox technology and industry leading technical support,” says Tom Alba, vice president of Pitman’s packaging division. “The strategic addition of Apex anilox products to Pitman’s world class portfolio will enhance our ability to help printers increase print quality and improve their efficiency.”

PIA announces 2009 Best Workplace in the Americas winners

Printing Industries of America (Pittsburgh, PA) announces the recipients of the 2009 Best Workplace in the Americas Awards. The program is designed to recognize graphic arts companies for their outstanding human relations efforts which contribute to a successful workplace.

SPC introduces Loyalty Group at DMA

Specialty Print Communications (SPC), a national print company and full-service direct marketing specialist, introduced its new Loyalty Group at DMA 09.

MSP Digital Marketing, Tracer Imaging announce strategic partnership

MSP Digital Marketing, LLC, formed earlier this year to create a unique national network of world-class marketing solutions providers, and lenticular / 3-D printing developer Tracer Imaging, LLC, have entered into a strategic partnership agreement.

Standard appoints new dealer

Standard Finishing Systems, a leading North American supplier of print finishing systems, has appointed Absolute Printing Equipment to represent the Standard Horizon product line in Indiana and Kentucky.

PrintED, SkillsUSA to offer online assessments

To provide students with a credential and to help meet standard government education requirements, GAERF and SkillsUSA have established a partnership to offer online PrintED/SkillsUSA Skill Connect Assessments.

Struggling with Color Management

Professor Bob Chung of RIT’s School of Print Media contacted WhatTheyThink about our recent interview with Elie Khoury of Alwan on our industry’s continued struggle with color management. Bob says, “I find Elie Khoury’s interview both informative and thought-provoking. There were many observations made by Elie on why color management is still something printers struggle with. [...]

Esquire looks to Energize Print

Perhaps it is just me, but does anyone really think it is a good idea for print products to drive readers to their computers and to the web? This is a big duh, what were they thinking moment. Cool ….yes, but cool for whom? This is a really cool look at what the internet can do [...]

Jones Soda Dresses Up Limited Edition Cans for Halloween

I completely agree with packaging design blog TheDieLine.com that these special Halloween edition cans from Jones Soda feature truly creative designs. If you hurry, you might be lucky enough to find some of these collectors' items in the candy aisle...

U.S. Lags Behind World with Its Patchwork Approach to Curbing E-Waste

Lurking behind the introduction of each new touch-screen computer, high-definition television and digital music player is the stark reality that some once-prized electronic gadgets from a previous techno-generation will get kicked to the curb, ending up in a toxic trash heap thousands of miles from its former owner. The reasons for this digital dumping are many, including ignorance of recycling options and indifference to the environmental impact. The remedy is straightforward--stricter governmental oversight, by the U.S. federal government in particular, of what goes into making these devices and how and where they are discarded, a team of University of California researchers posit in a study to be published Friday in Science.

EPA Testing Environmentally Friendly Parking Lot Concepts

In an effort to help reduce pollution runoff from paved parking lots, the Environmental Protection Agency is testing a variety of permeable paving materials at its Edison, N.J., facility.

PepsiCo blames person, not a failed process, in $1.26bn judgement

In a Wisconsin court, PepsiCo was on the wrong end of a $1.26 billion judgment for allegedly stealing the idea for what would become the Aquafina bottled water brand. Why? According to PepsiCo, they claim to have never received notice of the initial complaint because a secretary was too busy trying to prepare for a quarterly meeting. You can read about it here and many other places on the web.

Now, I obviously don't know the details of the case or whether or not the plaintiffs' claims have any merit, but the idea that a person is to blame because they were busy is utterly ludicrous. You would think that any company, especially one the size of PepsiCo, would have a standardized procedure for dealing with incoming legal documents, since many of these may involve penalties, fines or damage claims. To blame this on a person "forgetting" about the receipt of a legal document is just stupid, not to mention a few other words that I won't write here.

Remember Uncle Muri (sounds like you're saying "Murray")? Muri is the term for unreasonableness or overburden. If the secretary was so harried trying to do many important tasks at one time then PepsiCo is guilty of overburdening her with too much work and for being unreasonable in expecting her to complete everything.

One of PepsiCo's Guiding Principles (#6 - taken right from their website) is this:

"Respect others and succeed together.

Our mutual success depends on mutual respect, inside and outside the company. It requires people who are capable of working together as part of a team or informal collaboration. While our company is built on individual excellence, we also recognize the importance and value of teamwork in turning our goals into accomplishments.

Mutual respect? Teamwork? I don't see anything here but fingerpointing and excuses.

Perhaps a new Pepsi slogan is in order - the choice of a new generation of buck passers.

Snowed Under

We are getting slammed right now with a big fall snow storm, so we are closing early today and we will be closed all day tomorrow (Thursday). We should resume normal business on Friday. We apologize for any inconvenience, rest...

the BBC cover the new Ubuntu Karmic Koala release

With the recent release of Windows 7 getting widespread publicity as a half decent replacement for Vista, widely acknowledged to be a failure, its great to see the BBC covering the new Ubuntu release on their homepage yesterday. You can read all about it here. I will be using it, and its free, as in [...]

Answer Honestly: Are Molson Beer Labels Using Variable Data?

Last week the Bevlaw blog discussed these Molson beer labels. This "Answer Honestly" campaign has been going on for over a year now and it seems to have been successful. Molson have been putting in hundreds of different beer label...

Don't Fall Back...

In this month's issue of Label and Narrow Web magazine I'm using the autumnal equinox to remind companies not to "fall back" into old, wasteful habits but, instead, strengthen their companies and be prepared to take the lead when this recession ends.

New YouTube video – an introduction to Label Lock security seals

YouTube Video of Label Lock Security seals Label Lock security seals are our flagship product, and we are delighted to lauch this video on YouTube today to showcase the many and varied applications for both low residue and Dual Layer Label Lock security labels. I hope you enjoy it.

Efficient Pc has closed – for cheap Linux PC’s in the UK try Ginger6

My home PC was a 9 year old Dell heavyweight box (1ghtz pentium with 512mb ram running ubuntu 9.04) given to me years ago, and it finally gave up its lust for life recently and started tripping my home electrics. Looking for a new supplier of a good value linux desktop I initially ordered from Efficient [...]

Learn How to Get Better Response Rates from Print Marketing

If your response rates from your print marketing campaign are not where you would like them, it may be time to shake things up a bit. People tire of the same old ads, delivered in the same boring manner. Trying a different and novel approach could see a dramatic increase in your sales from your [...]

The Rickover Effect

"What it takes to do a job will not be learned from management courses. It is principally a matter of experience, the proper attitude, and common sense - none of which can be taught in a classroom. Human experience shows that people, not organizations or management systems, get things done." Admiral Hyman G. Rickover

I need Tylenol, extra extra strength...

Client: We want to implement kanban.

Me: Why?

Client: Because our boss wants to.

Me: Why?

Client: Because he doesn't like how materials are ordered now.

Me: Why? What's the problem? Do you have excessive material, shortages or stock outs, cash issues, disconnects between departments, what? What is the reason why you want to try to implement kanban?

Nothing. Nada. Zip. Turns out the engineers I'm working with are caught in a power struggle between two managers who are trying to see who can pee the farthest.

It's situations like this that make me want to drive my head through concrete, but I'm not giving up. It will take time, but I will get the C.A.V.E. dwellers to come out into the light.

New YouTube video – an introduction to digital label printing

A YouTube video introduction to digital label printing At Mercian Labels we have been advocates of digital label printing for many years as it offers so many benefits for label users. We have recently put together this video introduction to digital label printing that shows the process, benefits and finishes you can achieve using digital label [...]

Avery Dennison to start recycling PET liner

As pointed out in a recent blog comment, the Avery Dennision group is to trial the bulk recycling of PET liner from its Fasson brand label stock, the first time I have heard of this type of scheme. This is a positive step, and I hope that UPM Raflatac and others follow suit. It is just [...]

Huston Patterson Earns Chain-of-Custody Certifications

DECATUR, Ill.—Huston Patterson Corporation recently earned the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI), and Program for Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) chain-of-custody certifications. “These...

RadTech to Host uv.eb EAST 2009

BETHESDA, Md.—RadTech, the Association for UV and EB Technology, is hosting uv.eb EAST 2009, October 20-21 in Niagra Falls, N.Y. Ultraviolet (UV) and Electron Beam (EB) curing technologies will be presented to brand owners, printers, and...

Allied Development Announces New Packaging Study

BURNSVILLE, Minn.—“Stick Pouches” is a global study by Allied Develpment of the stick pouch market. This market is the focus of the new investment in technology, along with development of new applications. “Stick...

Nilpeter Succeeds at LabelExpo Europe

SLAGELSE, Denmark—Nilpeter debuted HoloPrint at LabelExpo Europe, in Brussels. The system offers a different approach to producing holograms and can be integrated in-line with any Nilpeter platform press. The cassette-based HoloPrint module...

Kyocera Mita FS-3900DN A4 monochrome laser printer

The FS-3900DN is a representative of Kyocera Mita Ecosys printers. It’s an A4 black-and-white printer designed for use in workgroups. The FS-3900DN can be easily integrated into corporate network and effectively administrated. The Kyocera’s technology of single platform allows for using a single driver for any Kyocera’s PCL/PostScript printing device, weather it’s a personal printer or [...]

KBA users from the Czech Republic have founded the Very Smart Offset Printers Club (V.S.O.P.)

Some 40 print experts from companies around the Czech Republic came over to KBA in Radebeul on 18th September to pick up information on the latest developments in sheetfed offset. Their group comprised representatives of long-standing KBA users, for example Model Obaly from Opava and Vychodoceska Tiskarna from Pardubice, Performa users such as Tiskarna K & B from Most, and a number of potential new customers who have to date been printing on presses from other manufacturers.

Jens Junker, CEO of KBA-Grafitec, welcomed around 40 representatives of the Czech print industry to the KBA customer centre (1)

The official welcome by KBA sales director Sven Strzelczyk and Jens Junker, CEO of KBA-Grafitec, was followed by a presentation given by KBA Radebeul product manager Jens Baumann, who outlined automation concepts geared to reducing makeready times on a sheetfed offset press. By way of cost benefit analyses, he demonstrated how automation modules such as DriveTronic SPC – assuming a corresponding job structure – very quickly pay back the initial higher investment and raise a print company's profitability by enabling more jobs to be handled in a given time.

DriveTronic Plate-Ident even serves three purposes: Plate detection to maximise the process reliability of plate changing, pre registration of the plates on the basis of additionally exposed register marks, and a plausibility check to ensure the correct assignment of plates to jobs and printing units. Such functions – and likewise CleanTronic and its associated components – are the key to considerable savings of time and waste. Electronic suction ring positioning on perfector presses, the video register tool ErgoTronic ACR and a whole range of QualiTronic modules for inline colour control are just a few of the many other automation solutions engineered with this same aim in mind.

Wolfram Zehnle, head of the KBA customer centre, opened the delivery extension of the running press to show the visitors the various installation positions for the dryer systems on the Rapida 106 (3)

After the presentation, the visitors witnessed a series of three job changeovers on an eight-colour Rapida 106 perfector. Jens Baumann and Wolfram Zehnle, head of the KBA customer centre, explained the various automation modules on the running press and showed how DriveTronic SPC, QualiTronic professional and CleanTronic interact to reduce makeready in practice.

Ample time was also set aside to answer questions raised by the visitors.

Close-up view at the control console: Print instructor Jens Pille showed exactly what needs to be done to switch between the finishing variants (2)

KBA sales engineer Jörg Henkel devoted a second presentation to the ever more important topic of “Sense Branding & Print”. As has long since been the case in the automobile industry, among airlines and in many other branches of industry, increasing attention is being paid to sensory perceptions in the consumer and luxury goods sector. Advertising materials and packaging are already lent the characteristic and unmistakeable scent, appearance or feel of a particular brand name at the time of their production. The finishing concepts elaborated by KBA permit practically all conceivable “perceptions” to be brought to paper.

Jörg Henkel compared the pros and cons of different coating variants and described some of the surface effects which can be achieved. And, of course, there is no better illustration than a practical demonstration: On a six-colour Rapida 106 with inline coater, the product was first finished with just a UV gloss coating. Then, the previously unused fifth printing unit was engaged to apply an oil-based varnish, creating high-quality and register-true matt-gloss effects (hybrid technology). As a third step, finally, an additional UV effect varnish was used to give the product also a textured surface.

Three finishing variants for one job – and trained eyes to compare the individual results (4)

A further highlight of the meeting was the founding of the V.S.O.P. Club CZ as a community to promote the joint interests of KBA users in the Czech Republic. It plans to organise a variety of events to share information with and among KBA users, and in this way to further intensify the exchanges of ideas and experience between the users and the manufacturer.

A tour of the production facility, a visit to the Volkswagen Transparent Factory in Dresden and a social get-together on the River Elbe rounded off the day.

Heidelberg: Crucial Success at PRINT 09

PRINT 09 in Chicago was all about the large-format presses for Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (Heidelberg). Following the successful installation of a Speedmaster XL 145 at the packaging printer Proteus in Wisconsin, the company sold a further three large-format presses at the trade show. Bell, Inc. in South Dakota purchased a Speedmaster XL 162 six-color press with coating unit, while a U.S. packaging conglomerate bought two further VLF presses.

Extra productivity generates crucial competitive edge

The increase in productivity throughout the production process played a key role in the latest business deals. For example, the high-performance Prinect Press Center control station coupled with the Intellistart operating software and integrated wallscreen cuts the number of steps required by up to 70 percent. This not only impressed the customers who purchased the large-format presses, it also netted Heidelberg the InterTech Award 2009 from the Printing Industries of America (PIA) in the run-up to the trade show.

Considerable interest among specialists

Although the total number of visitors fell short of the figures recorded in previous years, Heidelberg identified a large proportion of serious potential customers on the look-out for solutions for specific projects. Heidelberg used this opportunity to showcase the most comprehensive range of products and services in the industry and focused particular attention on its solutions for fully-integrated print production. Practical demonstrations at the booth gave visitors the opportunity to see for themselves how the individual components interact and how this generates benefits for customers.

Waldo plots business growth with EskoArtwork CDI Spark 5080 and first HD Flexo installation in the UK

Waldo, the flexo trade shop based in Lincolnshire (UK), has become the first company in the UK to install the EskoArtwork CDI Spark 5080 with HD Flexo technology. The company bought the set-up from Litho Supplies and will use it to streamline its operations and expand its portfolio for the flexible packaging and corrugated market. Regarded as a key trade house in the supply of quality plates to these markets, Waldo will use the EskoArtwork HD Flexo system – which combines 4000dpi optics with unique screening technology – with a number of recognised plate suppliers.

Phil Walmsley, Director at Waldo, sees the investment as integral to the company’s growth strategy, particularly in the corrugated market. “We can see the opportunities,” says Walmsley. “The HD Flexo technology significantly improves the quality of the dot on the plate, and can be applied to a wide variety of digital plates. Plus with less re-touching needed, our staff can process more files and the company can handle more volume.”

Waldo works with creatives, designers, brand managers and small to medium printers and produces and supplies plates from a number of suppliers. The new installation will be a big boost as the advantages of the HD Flexo system will ensure Waldo to meet the needs of the end customer: high quality, increased time efficiencies and higher volumes. The HD Flexo system combines high-definition optics with unique screening technology, allowing printers to reproduce the full tonal range of offset. Plus the exceptional dot structure offers sharp detail in text and line art, which is crucial to the packaging and branding designer.

“Businesses invest significant resources in developing their brands, so ensuring brand consistency in print is vital. We already work closely with design teams, advising them on the best way to make sure their creativity translates accurately onto the plate and into print. This latest investment will help them achieve consistency even with the most intricate designs because there is simply noting we cannot achieve with HD Flexo,” explains Walmsley.

From 2500dpi to 4000dpi means more pixels making up the dot. The advantage of this better shaped dot created with HD Flexo is that is does not collect ink on the plate so much and eliminates to need stop for cleaning – resulting in overall longer runs off the same plate and a significant cost saving. In addition, working with the larger EskoArtwork CDI Spark 5080, this means the ability to produce higher volumes.

Waldo plans to initially use the HD Flexo system in cooperation with four plate suppliers. The capacity of the EskoArtwork CDI 5080 and the sophistication of the HD Flexo system allows the company to re-visit the corrugated market and look for possible business opportunities in the paper sack market. Waldo has discussed the new setup with its existing customer base and prospective customers and noticed a high level of interest.

Walmsley concludes: “EskoArtwork is continually developing innovative solutions and is our preferred technology partner. The HD Flexo system will improve the quality of our plates and increase volume. Plus it will help us move into new markets and develop new business opportunities, while at the same time provide an even better service to our existing customers.”

Getting Your Business Noticed with Brochures

Brochures and flyers are amongst the most useful and versatile of all marketing media. They can be left on doorknobs, placed under windshields, displayed at store countertops, and left wherever you go. In order to make your business stand out in a sea of other companies, you have to get inventive. With extreme use of [...]

It's the people, stupid

My latest column for Label and Narrow Web magazine is a continuation of my rant on training or, more to the point, the lack of training.

The most important part of any manager's job is to provide for the safety & well being of each and every employee and to give them opportunities to enhance & enrich both themselves and their work. Most fail to do this, though, and that is why we as a corporate nation fail miserably at trying to emulate Toyota and other truly Lean organizations.

To paraphrase the Clinton/Gore '92 campaign slogan, "It's the people, stupid."

xpedx Named Reseller for KODAK Packaging Solutions

ROCHESTER, N.Y.—xpedx is now an Authorized Reseller of KODAK Packaging Solutions in the United States. The agreement enables xpedx to provide new offset and flexographic package printing technologies to U.S. commercial printers, in-plant...

Innovating against the crisis: KBA flies the flag in Chicago

For more than two years now the US print media market has suffered the impact of the financial, economic and mortgage meltdown. The persistent downturn since 2007 was reflected in attendance figures and the number of contracts signed at PRINT 09 from 11 to 16 September at McCormick Place in Chicago. Among visitors from abroad it was the exhibitors who predominated, while most of the US nationals at the show were from Illinois, Indiana and adjoining states.

A successful appearance despite poor attendance: KBA at PRINT09 in Chicago

Total attendance was well below the disappointing figure for PRINT 05. PRINT is held once every four years, with GraphExpo taking place at the same venue in the intervening years. In view of the high costs involved it is not surprising that for some time now exhibitors have been advocating a change in schedule to a two-year cycle, with the fairs being held alternately.

While the global investment slump has prompted cost-cutting initiatives both at KBA and its US subsidiary KBA North America Inc., which recently relocated from Williston (Vermont) to Dallas (Texas), there was no sign of this at the show, where the two companies’ aim was to demonstrate a healthy optimism by “innovating against the crisis” in anticipation of a rapid recovery in the key US market. KBA was the only major German press manufacturer to exhibit three sheetfed presses (small, half and medium format) on its attractive 800m² (8,600ft²) stand. Only Komori from Japan offered a similar choice.

Once again, the most popular demonstrations were those given on a KBA Rapida 106 – the world makeready champion in B1 format since Drupa 2008. The eight-colour press, whose DriveTronic SPC dedicated drives, QualiTronic inline colour control, sidelay-free infeed and LogoTronic Professional production management system promote ultra-fast job changes, repeatedly stunned US printers by completing fifteen different 4/4 perfecting jobs of 500 sheets apiece in less than 60 minutes. At half-time it looked as though the high-tech press line exhibited would be snapped up by a printer from Canada.

B2 (29in) format demonstrations were given on a 605 x 750mm (23.81 x 29.53in) Rapida 75 five-colour coater press with nonstop facilities at the feeder and delivery, DensiTronic density and spectral imaging control, CIP interface and simultaneous impression and blanket cylinder washing. This compact and sensibly automated press, whose energy efficiency is fast becoming a byword, is finding more and more buyers among small-scale printers in North America. And with environmental issues firmly in the spotlight, KBA’s stand would not have been complete without the Genius 52 UV built by subsidiary KBA-Metronic. The USA is the biggest market for this waterless, keyless B3 (20in) press, which runs up to saleable colour in around ten sheets and can print paper, board and even plastic film up to 0.8mm (0.032in) thick.

The few contracts signed at PRINT 09 were mainly for small- and half-format presses. However, a few projects for medium- and large-format presses were also initiated, and KBA is hopeful that its persuasive performance will soon enable it to announce additional orders. But they are unlikely to approach the high volumes for North America of 2005 and 2006 until the end of the financial crisis is in sight and the economy starts to rebound.

Kyocera Mita FS-2000D Laser Printer

Kyocera Mita FS-2000D is a monochrome laser A4 printer with duplex printing that provides high printing speed at minimal cost. You may find Kyocera Mita FS-2000D an optimal solution for both offices that only need single printer and large corporations that require printers for different departments. The two will benefit from low cost document printing. The FS-2000D [...]

Xerox, XMPie Capture 21 Awards at Print 09

Digital print systems and software from Xerox Corporation and XMPie – a Xerox business unit – took home more than 20 awards at Print 09, the year's largest graphic communications event.

The companies garnered a total of eight honors in the annual “Must See ‘ems” award program. In addition, Xerox earned 13 Gold Ink awards for excellence in digital printing technology in commercial print and graphic arts environments.

“Must See ‘ems” award wins

The “Must See ‘ems” awards, sponsored by PrintCom Consulting Group, are given to the most unique, innovative and compelling products and services on display at Print 09. Products and services are recognized based on an independent evaluation of competitive offerings.

The awards are selected by a panel of print industry consultants and non-vendor related program participants. Xerox and XMPie winning products are:

·         Xerox Automated Packaging Solution powered by Stora Enso Gallop™ (Worth-A-Look) – the fully-automated digital system, driven by the industry-leading Xerox iGen4™ Press, prints at 110 pages per minute and is uniquely positioned to fill the needs of the packaging market with the largest sheet size (14.33" x 22.5") of any digital color press.

·        Xerox iGen4 Press (Encore Must See ‘ems) – a large sheet productivity license and EX Color Server powered by Fiery, both unveiled after the press debuted last year, are on display at the show.

·         Xerox DocuColor® 7002/8002 Digital Presses (Worth-A-Look) – announced in August, these systems print at 80 ppm and feature proprietary low-gloss toner that produces a smooth, matte finish for offset-quality prints. An in-line spectrophotometer, driving Xerox’s Automated Color Quality Suite, enables quicker setup, better color stability and matching, and increased productivity.

·         Xerox 700 Digital Color Press (Encore Worth-A-Look) – the system is significantly expanding print volume and revenue for thousands of global print providers in its first year on the market.

·         Xerox 1300™ Continuous Feed Printing System (Must See ‘ems) – print providers competing in the high-speed, high-volume black-and-white market can now use the systems to print on light-weight media for jobs traditionally reserved for offset presses or heavy-weight media typically only used with cut-sheet systems.

·         Xerox Nuvera® 288 EA Perfecting Production System with enhanced book finishing options (Must See ‘ems) – leading the industry in image quality, speed and productivity, the Xerox Nuvera 288 EA Perfecting Production System paired with Lasermax Roll Systems DocuSheeter NV-R, CEM DocuCutt, C.P. Bourg Book Factory and Cover Driven Workflow is an end-to-end system ideal for the short-run digital publishing industry.

·         Xerox 490/980™ Color Continuous Feed Printing System (Worth-A-Look) – uses non-contact flash fusing technology to fuse images to the paper. In addition, the Xerox 490 uses breakthrough toner technology allowing for more precise image quality on prints requiring highly-detailed graphics, such as barcodes, photos and halftones.

·         XMPie’s uStore 3.5 (Encore Worth-A-Look) – the Web-to-print software allows print providers and marketing communications firms to host e-commerce enabled stores where end-users can log-on and create personalized marketing materials or e-mail campaigns on-demand.

The Xerox iGen4 220 Perfecting Press was named a Print 09 “Future of Print Product” at the “Must See ‘ems” awards. By integrating two Xerox iGen4 110 engines in-line, it can print 220 impressions per minute and approach a monthly print volume of up to seven million impressions.

Retail Psychology: It’s In the Cards

Remember the lovely sound of ca-ching? We hear it less frequently these days. Retailers may be suffering more than many other businesses during our current economic depression. (Depression in this case being a common psychological state, whether or not it’s the official label for today’s business climate.) Traditionally, high-volume retail operations don’t use many business cards, [...]

Reflect Your Personality Through the Business Card

In marketing, nothing is negligible. Every small thing counts. So do business cards. The business card cannot speak volumes. But it is the first impression you make on your customer. It reflects the personality of the organization. It can be young and happening. Or it can be mature and graceful. It can highlight your character. That [...]

Copywriting for Conversion

Need some easy tips to get your marketing copy on point? Follow along… Add a Call to Action Strive for active verbs and avoid passive clichés. Drop overused phrases like “synergistic,” “paradigm,” and “value-added.” Readers will skip over them without being compelled to act. Avoid passive language and tell your readers what to do. Consider these examples: “Build [...]

INSPIRED

Are you inspired by your company? Have you ever asked yourself that question? If you have, chances are that most of you out there, are not inspired and yearn to be inspired!

I just got back from Houston, Texas, where I attended the National Associates Meeting with Consolidated Graphics. Now, if you aren't sure what this meeting is...see my previous post and it'll give you a 30,000 foot view....

Now, most companies when they have a national event...it becomes sort a happy hour of sorts for an entire weekend. Well, Consolidated Graphics has found a happy medium.

This weekend was not only fun, but ABSOLUTELY INSPIRATIONAL! I have seen what's about to enter our market place in the way of talent and tools. The printing industry is about to be turned up-side down and sideways and for the better!

I met over 300 young people who have not just a passion for print and all things printed, but a passion to lead and a passion to share it with the world. These young people are full of great ideas, industry knowledge and a passion I haven't seen in years.

The entire weekend there were discussions about bringing more to our clients and prospects; giving value first and expecting nothing in return. What a great concept! Give value first, expect nothing in return! Isn't that the basis for what we as people are to strive for? I think so. And using that basis as a business concept is powerful.

Over the weekend I listed to industry leaders like Daniel Dejan from Sappi, speak about best practices and ways to engage and build business for our clients like I've never heard before.

If you don't know who Consolidated Graphics is...you'll soon find out. Keep your eyes open everyone...there are some great things on the horizon!

For more information...click the below links. And as always, I welcome your feedback!

http://www.cgx.com
http://www.cgxemergedc09.com
http://www.cgxsolutions.com
http://www.sappi.com
http://www.wentworthprinting.com
http://www.wetzelbrothers.com
http://www.andersonprinting.com

National Associates Meeting

I'm attending Consolidated Graphics' National Associates Meeting this weekend!

If you don't know what this is...let me give you a brief summary. Consolidated Graphics recruits and hires only the Best and Brightest college graduates to train and become the printing industry's next leaders. This meeting is a time for all of these up and coming leaders to discover best practices in the print industry and maybe even devise some of their own...that just might change the industry for the better.

I'll be speaking on Saturday at the event. Myself and another consultant for Consolidated Graphics will be sharing some tips that we've picked up along the way. Tips from networking to researching prospects and determining the best approach to their industry.

Below are some links that I'll be sharing with the group. Maybe these links would be helpful for you guys.

For all of you bloggers, try these sites for inspiration/help!
-www.dailyblogtips.com
-www.problogger.com

For all of you sales reps or soon to be reps, try these ezines:
-www.gitomer.com
-www.businessbyphone.com

Ps...link with me on Twitter and find out the latest in technology that Consolidated Graphics is about to unleash! Watch out printworld...this is gonna shake things up! More details to come....

From Xerox to Small Biz: WorkCentre 3210 and 3220

erox has recently released a couple of new multifunction monochrome laser printers — WorkCentre 3210 and it older brother WorkCentre 3220. Speed improvements and a bunch of new features make these two machines perfect, yet affordable, for the professional individual or a small workgroup. The WorkCentre 3210 is an all-in-one (4-in-1, if to be precise) printer – [...]

RGB COLOR VS. CMYK COLOR

Is it really a big deal if you send RGB images instead of CMYK images?

The answer is ABSOLUTELY!

Don't take my word for it though, see for yourself. The image on the left is a RGB image. The one on the right is a CMYK converted image. Can you tell a difference?

It's alwas best to convert your images from RGB to CMYK because you'll have more control over color when printing. When printers receive RGB images, we typcially use a standard conversion, which may not alter the color to your liking.

It's true that you can create certain colors in RGB that you can't in CMYK. However, when these colors are printed, it will be converted to a CMYK color scheme, which will most definitely alter the color combination you might have been going for.

The conversion is important becaus printing is based on a different set of colors: Cyan (blue), Magenta (red), Yellow and Black, which are the primary colors for inks and pigments.

The shift in color will be most noticeable in solid colors on backgrounds. See the different conversions that can occur below. And as always, call me with any questions.

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IBM InfoPrint 1552 As It Is

The IBM InfoPrint 1552N is a monochrome laser printer. Designed for small and medium workgroups, this machine can also handle the workload of a large workgroup. As a scalable solution, InfoPrint 1552 features fast print speeds, flexible connectivity, and extensive input and output options. The printing speed reaches 45 pages per minute, which is a bit faster [...]