Shiraz Software unveils next generation RIP suite

Dec. 5, 2011 - PRLog -- Innovative software manufacturer Shiraz Software has announced a new generation of its RIP Server, Signature and Focus solutions which will allow users easier management of an unparalleled range of functions designed to streamline production and improve revenue. Fronted by a sleek, accessible Dashboard, the Shiraz v8 release puts modular upgrades and support into the hands of the user, having placed customer feedback at the heart of redevelopment and focused on creating an unbeatable, accessible user experience for wide-format printers.

A full-scale rebuild of the underlying architecture sees the entire Shiraz range updated with faster and smarter RIP functionality, as well as an enhanced customer service module with sophisticated remote access and extended support for machines from several manufacturers. With native support for the latest Windows 7 and Mac OS X Lion operating systems, Shiraz v8 includes a Live Update facility which checks automatically for software upgrades, new media profiles and performance-enhancing tweaks, installing them with minimal interferences to the software's operation. This remote contact can also be used to expand the Shiraz package between single- to multi-user versions and add modules to the interface.

The new Dashboard facility in Shiraz V8 is designed for quick switching between everyday components; reviewing print queues, colour management and media profile handling, hotfolders, sending or re-ordering jobs and accessing support tools is a matter of seconds, not minutes spent loading different modules. This extremely intuitive interface enables novice users to learn control of their print environment quickly without compromising on the extended functionality expected of Shiraz by advanced operators. Meanwhile, across all versions of the new Shiraz programs, the powerful new RIP Buffering and Hyper RIP features deliver multi-tasking in the print queue, allowing one queue to print while others RIP, thereby increasing production efficiency.

Shiraz Server V8, Shiraz's complete solution for RIP workflow management for environments with multiple users and devices, sets new standards in speed, stability and ease-of-use, reducing management and processing times and improving throughput and accuracy. Server V8 now includes a HPGL/2 engine to support rendering and printing of vector and raster files. Developed especially for use in design, graphic arts, engineering, architecture and GIS mapping environments, the new HPGL/2 engine allows for large-format printing without the need for costly specialist solutions for individual applications.

In line with increased security measures incorporated in new operating systems like Mac OSX Lion and Windows 7, Server V8 now also includes a Client/Server Verification module designed to ensure consistent and robust communications over TCP/IP. Any restrictions are flagged and highlighted to the user, allowing for quick resolution of networking and permissions issues.

The new Overprint Simulation feature in the latest Shiraz version delivers a critical addition for wide-format houses, providing a true representation of overprint settings within the original input file, while the WYSIWYG Thumbnail Generator displays nests, layouts and crop lines in one efficient overview. The integrated Adobe PDF Library ensures that Server V8 and Signature V8 can handle all the latest versions of PDF files created using Adobe software for maximum compatibility and output fidelity.

For smaller wide-format facilities which nevertheless require a top-flight RIP solution, Shiraz Signature V8 promises a number of significant improvements in response to customer demand, whilst retaining the powerful RIP capabilities that have made it Shiraz's leading production option. Alongside user-focused updates, such as the redesigned user interface boasting streamlined workflow and faster response, it incorporates new developments in image management for smarter printing. Signature V8 is available in single-user Solo or multi-user Server editions, recognising the need for companies to future-proof themselves with modular upgrade paths to expand with minimal disruption.

Also new in Signature V8 are the Size Fix and Job Template settings. Size Fix introduces the ability to drag and drop files into the layout interface and dynamically and efficiently scale or resize them in line with predefined parameters, regardless of the original size. For printers handling multiple similar jobs, Job Template effects the straightforward saving, editing and recalling of common settings to be applied to numerous projects, automating the production process and minimising job setup time.

For print providers specialising in outdoor and signage applications, Signature V8 offers two further intuitive features. The Screening Mode has been extended to include handling of high-speed output for industrial printers, and a suite of options makes large-format double-sided printing easier than ever before. Print the same image on both sides of a chosen substrate, or different images: either way, the software can intelligently scale files to take into account wet expansion of the media and ensure exact placement for high-margin graphics and display applications.

Shiraz Focus V4, for fine art and photographic output, is now available either as Focus Solo for single-user, single-printer applications, or as Focus Server for client server and multiple queue environments. The faster, more intuitive user interface offers a host of innovative features for printing even complex gallery wraps with ease, creating a number of creative presentation ideas and potential new revenue streams for professional artists and photographers. Users now have the ability to split and visualise an image over any number of rows and columns for complex, triptych-style presentation ideas, and can also use the unique Ruby Gallery Wrap feature to arrange images for canvas wraps in an eye-catching diamond formation. Additionally, users can now specify a safety margin on the image overlap to allow for distortion when stretching canvas prints.

"Many of the improvements we have made across the whole Shiraz V8 suite came from talking to our customers and finding out what they wanted, taking into account the work they are producing and working out how we can make it easier for them," says Ramin Shahbazi, Business Development Director, Shiraz Software. "That's how we know that Focus V4 and Signature and Server V8 are offering what users really need: a clean, intuitive and fast interface with the powerful underlying architecture which delivers perfect prints every time."

The next generation of Shiraz's RIP solution suite will be commercially available in January 2012.

Shiraz Software provides software, workflow management and RIP solutions for all users of wide-format ink-jet printers, with products including its Server options for businesses running multiple printers and Signature, which is designed as an entry-level stand-alone solution with upgrade paths for larger environments. All versions are fully upgradable and are available for Windows and Macintosh platforms, compatible with the latest software versions. A low-cost image management and printing option, Shiraz Focus, is also available for professional photographers.

Further information about Shiraz Software and its solutions is available from Ramin Shahbazi at Shiraz Software, Unit 13 Coda Centre, 189 Munster Road, London SW6 6AW, UK, telephone +44 (0)845 680 2484, e-mail ramin@shiraz-software.com, or visit www.shiraz-software.com.

ENDS

December 2011


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