There are improvements brewing for the Xerox DocuColor iGen3. At Drupa, Xerox announced a new paper-handling capability, Pantone-licensing, software enhancements, and a UV-coated system in development.
As a direct result of customer requests, DocuColor iGen3 printers soon will be able to print on paper stock up to 14.33 x 22.5 in. These changes were requested by customers that print retail signs and posters, as well as those that wanted greater capacity per sheet for postcards, business cards, and smaller applications. The upgrade is priced at $60,000 and is expected to be ready in the fourth quarter of 2004.
In addition, the DocuColor iGen3 used in conjunction with the Xerox DocuSP Color Server workstation is now Pantone-licensed. Pantone has produced a chip book for the Xerox DocuColor 6060; until now, Pantone only produced chip books for offset printing presses. Available in the near future, the chip books will be offered as part of the Xerox Profit Accelerator portfolio, a customer resource program that helps users grow their business.
Through software enhancements, the DocuColor iGen3 can now run as many as four inline feeding modules, four inline stacker modules, a postprocessing inserter, and inline finishing. In addition, a software upgrade provides an enhanced stock library that helps automate the process of identifying key substrate specs such as color, weight, and size. These software upgrade will be installed by Xerox reps at regular maintenance calls. The feeders, stackers, and inserters are now available for a list price of $35,000 each.
Still under development, Xerox anticipates the capability of running an inline UV-coating system with the iGen. This coating system would enable documents to be produced with a more glossy or matte finish for enhanced image quality and durability. The UV coating system is expected to be available in 2005. (Xerox: www. xerox.com)