Konica Introduces Network Connectivity Options for Its 7040 and 7033 Digital Copiers

Business Wire, Nov 5, 1998

WINDSOR, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 5, 1998--Konica Business Technologies, Inc., one of the largest print controller developers in the world, announces the introduction of its latest connectivity products, the IP-402 print controller and the KN-301 Network Interface Card.

New Open Architecture

With the addition of the IP-402 print controller and the KN-301 Network Interface Card, the Konica 7033 and 7040 digital copiers are transformed into feature-rich 33 and 40 ppm network printers offering a full range of finishing capabilities, remote printing utilities and in the future, scanning functions.

The IP-402's page description languages are provided by Electronics For Imaging's Pipeline Division, including interpreters for 45 standard PCL5e fonts and 45 optional PostScript fonts.

Developed by the California-based Konica System Technology Center for worldwide distribution, the IP-402 is based on Konica's New Open Architecture (NOA). Employing a real time multitasking operating system based on Wind River Systems' VxWorks platform, the New Open Architecture allows Konica to deliver a highly innovative and flexible product. Due to the IP-402's modular design, new upgrades and capabilities can be added to a Konica 7033 or 7040 without having to make major software modifications first.

Kevin Kern, vice president, digital system solutions and new product development, stated, "Konica's latest development in breakthrough technology, the New Open Architecture, strongly positions the company to be highly responsive to changing market needs and to provide new products and applications to the marketplace quickly. In addition, the core NOA software is common to our monochrome products from 20 ppm and higher, so applications will be common across the product line."

Faster Job Processing with MMX Technology, RAM-based Spooling

The IP-402's multitasking architecture has achieved a new benchmark in job throughput processing. NOA enables the IP-402 to handle system management issues and printing commands simultaneously, resulting in increased job processing power from the desktop that can only be achieved through this exclusive, powerful integration of Konica technology with Intel technology.

Using Konica's unique IntelliStream Print Job Manager, the IP-402 is unique in the industry because it uses both RAM-based and hard drive-based job processing technology. This technology reduces network traffic by transferring jobs on the network to the IP-402's hard drive.

KN-301 Network Interface

Konica's latest network card, the KN-301 incorporates advanced networking technologies to deliver fast communication speed and increased throughput. Utilizing Fast Ethernet technology, the high-speed KN-301 communicates at a rate of 100Mbps, reducing network traffic while increasing printer throughput. The KN-301's remote printer status utilities have also been enhanced, making it simpler than ever for network administrators to manage their Konica printers utilizing their web browser.

Pricing and Availability

The IP-402 print controller is currently available through Konica's North American direct sales and authorized dealer distribution channels. The manufacturer's suggested retail price is $5,480. List price for the KN-301 Print Server/Network Interface Card is $735.

Konica Business Technologies, Inc., headquartered in Windsor, Conn., is an industry leading provider of digital solutions for document creation, distribution and production. Konica markets a full line of printers, multifunction and copier products through direct sales offices, authorized dealers, resellers, and distribution partners located in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America, and South America.

Konica can be accessed on the World Wide Web at www.konicabt.com.