New Imation Rainbow Controller Software Supports Postscript 3, PDF Workflows

Business Wire, March 10, 1998

OAKDALE, Minn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 10, 1998--

New software represents a quantum leap for Imation Rainbow

proofing system users

Imation Corp. (NYSE: IMN) today announced Imation Rainbow Controller software version 5.0, incorporating Adobe PostScript 3 technology and the ability to proof portable document format (PDF) files on the Imation Rainbow proofing system.

"As more and more projects begin their lives as PDF files, the need for accurate color proofs at any stage of the workflow -- from initial design through production -- becomes essential," said Curt Anderson, software marketing manager at Imation. "With PDF already a standard in Internet document transmission and many graphic arts applications, the new Rainbow controller software allows Rainbow users to take advantage of the quality and productivity benefits of new PostScript 3 technology."

Moreover, Anderson notes, Rainbow 5.0 software represents a tremendous opportunity for time and cost savings for Rainbow users. "Imation Rainbow systems use a software-based RIP as part of the controller software. With Rainbow 5.0 software, our customers can easily upgrade the RIP system without the time and expense of hardware upgrades," Anderson said.

Further, Anderson notes, Imation's software includes up-to-the minute improvements in the PostScript language -- the result of a close working relationship with Adobe developers.

PostScript 3 Technology and the Rainbow Proofing System

PostScript 3 technology in the Rainbow proofing system gives Rainbow system users the ability to create, exchange, proof and print the same PDF files at any point in the workflow without loss of color fidelity or content. With many corporations and designers repurposing print files for the Internet, video or multimedia use, or for transmission to remote locations, users are increasingly using PDF files. PDF is useful because files take up fewer megabytes on removable media. They also can be transmitted quickly -- an advantage for Rainbow system users who require remote approval and final file distribution, or e-mail functionality.

PostScript 3 v. PostScript level 2

PostScript 3 is rapidly becoming the new graphic arts industry standard. Generated by new versions of Adobe PhotoShop, Illustrator, and PageMaker software, PostScript 3 files:

-- Are less prone to interpretation errors -- speeding file processing.

-- Provide more accurate color description and communication to create better images.

-- Allow finer and more accurate color control.

-- Support advanced imaging features, including 3D images and smooth gradients, reducing processing time for complex image files.

New Rainbow Software features

New features with version 5.0 include:

-- Full-featured versions for both Macintosh and Windows NT operating system.

-- Compatibility with native operating system multi-tasking and multi-threading capabilities, enabling the controller software to share system processing time efficiently with other applications.

-- Three levels of user selected Anti-aliasing, improving text and fine lines in the proof without affecting the file content.

-- Separate Color CD to simplify installation of the latest Imation color tables. New tables include those for the new Rainbow 2740 proofer and for the new bases available with the Rainbow 4700 proofer.

-- Printer drivers for Macintosh, Windows 95 and Windows NT operating systems and Windows NT running on DEC Alpha systems. With these drivers, users can access the Rainbow proofer from virtually any workstation on their network.

Pricing and Availability

Imation Rainbow Controller software version 5.0 is available in Macintosh and Windows NT versions from authorized Imation graphic arts distributors or from Imation by calling 800/328-1805. The suggested list price for either operating system is US$800 (prices may vary). Users upgrading multiple Rainbow systems at the same time and at the same facility are eligible for a 5 percent discount from list price.

About Imation

Imation supplies a variety of products and services worldwide for the imaging and information industry. The company manufactures and markets digital and conventional color proofing systems, including the industry-standard Matchprint color proofing system, imagesetting materials, printing plates, graphic arts films, digital prepress software, and software for digital communications services to customers worldwide. Imation products are supported by a worldwide customer service organization.

In 1997, the company generated revenues of $2.2 billion. Imation employs approximately 9,800 people and is based in Oakdale, Minn. Additional information about Imation is available on the company's Web site at www.imation.com or by calling Imation toll-free at 1-888-466-3456. -0-

Imation, Matchprint and Rainbow are trademarks of Imation Corp.

Adobe, PostScript 3, PhotoShop, Illustrator and Pagemaker are registered trademarks of Adobe Systems Inc.

Macintosh is a trademark of Apple Computer Inc.

Windows and Windows NT are registered trademarks of the Microsoft Corp.