New Pre-Press Features Added to Harlequin RIP

New Pre-Press Features Added to Harlequin RIP

ACTON, Massachusetts, September 23, 2010/PRNewswire-FirstCall/ --

    - Version 8.3 Upgrade Expands Support for Screening, Variable Data and
Updates Platform Support

    New features for pre-press have been added to the latest release of the
Harlequin(R) PLUS Server RIP
(http://www.globalgraphics.com/products/harlequin_rip/) announced today by
Global Graphics Software (http://www.globalgraphics.com/). Version 8.3,
available via Global Graphics' network of Harlequin RIP OEMs, introduces
extended support for hybrid and digitally modulated screens and expands the
number of devices across which PDF retained raster can be deployed, a feature
that speeds up variable data processing. Platform support is updated to
include Windows 7 and Mac Snow Leopard.

     (Photo:
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100923/409652 )

    Martin Bailey, Global Graphics' chief technology officer, says, "Our
development roadmap for the Harlequin RIP is focussed on introducing
incremental benefits that will have an immediate impact on the productivity
of print shops. So in this release we build on the performance enhancements
we introduced last year.

    "For example, in response to the increase in demand to process variable
data today's launch increases the number of devices that can run PDF retained
raster. This feature speeds up the processing of variable data in PDF files
even if they weren't created using specific variable data tools by only
RIPping new content on multi-page jobs so that the same areas are not
processed repeatedly. When it comes to screening, this new version of the RIP
extends support for Harlequin Cross-Modulated Screening (HXM) that addresses
the issue of printing on lower quality papers while meeting higher customer
expectations."

    Harlequin Cross Modulated Screening, or HXM, is a combination of AM and
FM screening that allows higher screen rulings than is provided by AM screens
alone. It results in smoother flesh tones, flat tints and gradients. With
Version 8.3 of the Harlequin RIP the range of screen sets increases to
include 1270 dpi and 2540 dpi for easy use on a wider range of CTP solutions.
Third party screening solutions such as Auraia from Hamillroad Software can
also be used with the Harlequin RIP.

    The Harlequin RIP processes PostScript(R), PDF and XPS natively in one
RIP engine. Harlequin RIP users have never needed to flatten transparent
artwork because all Harlequin RIPs since Version 6.0 have automatically
recognised when PDF files contain live transparency and generated the correct
result. Recent releases of the Harlequin RIP have seen notable accelerations
in performance, with, for example, the introduction of multi-threaded
rendering taking full advantage of Duo and Quad core technologies.

    Print shops should check availability of Version 8.3 with their supplier.

    Notes to editors:

    For the full set of features contained in the Harlequin RIP you can
download a datasheet. A variety of images, including a head shot of Martin
Bailey, are available on request to jill.taylor@globalgraphics.com

    About Harlequin RIP technology

    Global Graphics PostScript(R) Language Level 3 compatible Harlequin RIP
was first used in a commercial system in 1988 since when its core technology
and associated modules has evolved through successive generations into the
high-performance processor it is today. For more information visit:
http://www.globalgraphics.com/products/harlequin_rip/index.html

    To find a Harlequin RIP supplier

    Visit: http://www.globalgraphics.com/supplier

    About Global Graphics

    Global Graphics Software http://www.globalgraphics.com/ is a leading
developer and supplier of sophisticated high performance RIPs, electronic
document, workflow and color solutions mostly to a customer base of
Independent Hardware Vendors, system integrators, software developers and
resellers. These partners include the world's leading vendors of digital
pre-press systems, large-format color printers, color proofing systems,
copiers and printers for the corporate and SOHO markets and software
applications. Global Graphics Software is a subsidiary of Global Graphics
S.A. (NYSE-Euronext:GLOG)

    Global Graphics, the smarter alternative, Harlequin, the Harlequin logo,
the Harlequin RIP, are trademarks of Global Graphics Software Limited which
may be registered in certain jurisdictions. Global Graphics is a trademark of
Global Graphics S.A. which may be registered in certain jurisdictions.
PostScript is a trademark of Adobe Systems Incorporated which may be
registered in certain jurisdictions. All other brand and product names are
the registered trademarks or trademarks of their respective owners. Global
Graphics makes no warranty and accepts no liability for any loss or damage
arising from the use of information or particulars in this document.

   
    Contact:

    Jill Taylor, Global Graphics Software
    Tel: +44-(0)1954-283074
    E-mail: jill.taylor@globalgraphics.com

Photo:
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100923/409652

Source: Global Graphics Software Ltd

Contact: Jill Taylor, Global Graphics Software, Tel: +44-(0)1954-283074,
E-mail: jill.taylor@globalgraphics.com