X-Rite, Epson Partner to Bring In-Line Automated Remote Proofing to Large Format Printers

Business Wire, May 29, 2008

Epson Integrates X-Rite's In-Line Spectrophotometer into the New Epson Stylus Pro 7900 and Stylus Pro 9900 Large Format Printers

DUSSELDORF, Germany -- X-Rite, Incorporated (NASDAQ: XRIT), the world leader in color management, measurement and communication technologies, and Epson, a global leader in imaging products, today announced that they have joined forces to develop the SpectroProofer[TM], an in-line, off-carriage calibration and verification system for Epson's newly launched Epson Stylus([R]) Pro 7900 and Stylus Pro 9900 large format printers. The new SpectroProofer will be showcased for the first time at Drupa 2008 on the Epson stand (Hall 5, Stand A01).

Powered by X-Rite's In-Line Spectrophotometer (ILS), the Epson SpectroProofer tool turns the Epson Stylus Pro 7900 and Stylus Pro 9900 into reliable, consistent and repeatable proof verification and printer calibration solutions. The embedded Epson SpectroProofer brings fully automated in-line proofing capabilities to the Epson Stylus Pro range to make remote proofing a reality. By enabling a high level of transparent automation, it significantly reduces workload, operation costs and increases workflow efficiency.

"The new Epson Stylus Pro range with the SpectroProofer calibration and verification system will enable commercial printers to broaden their business by entering new market sectors, such as the packaging proofing and flexographic markets. This winning technology combination will also address the remote proofing needs of production proofing companies by giving them a much needed in-line automated remote proofing solution for their large format printers," comments Marco van Niekerk, senior product manager, large format printers at Epson Europe.

With the Epson SpectroProofer, the following color control workflows can be achieved automatically and very precisely: color calibration, color certification, daily color checks, profile creation, spot color matching, color shift tracking and target measurement. Furthermore, a color certification label, like the Fogra wedge, can be printed to support the ISO certification process. The SpectroProofer allows initiation of a printer color calibration test either automatically, at a predefined interval, or at the request of a service technician.

A compact, carriage-mounted in-line spectrophotometer, with completely self-contained optics and electronics, X-Rite's ILS platform enables seamless non-contact measurements for fast moving media and provides direct feedback for color calibration/management and control of Epson Stylus Pro color printers. It quickly sends the calculated color data to a host RIP such as the Epson SpectroProofer software, via a direct USB interface link, providing on-the-fly calibration and closed loop, accurate color management of the print process and patented remote control capabilities.

The newly launched Epson 24" Stylus Pro 7900 and 44" Stylus Pro 9900 set new standards for the professional large format printer market. Improved ink formulation, a new printer mechanism and a raft of new technologies make these two new additions to the Epson Stylus Pro range ideal for production and contract proofing, as well as for the highest quality fine-art and photographic applications. They will also enable printers to extend their business into the demanding packaging proofing and flexographic markets.

About X-Rite

(NASDAQ: XRIT) X-Rite is the global leader in color science and technology. The company, which now includes design industry color leader Pantone, Inc., develops, manufactures, markets and supports innovative color solutions through measurement systems, software, color standards and services. X-Rite's expertise in inspiring, selecting, measuring, formulating, communicating and matching color helps users get color right the first time and every time, which translates to better quality and reduced costs. X-Rite serves a range of industries, including printing, packaging, photography, graphic design, video, automotive, paints, plastics, textiles, dental and medical. For further information, please visit www.xrite.com.

About Epson

Epson is a global leader in imaging products including printers, 3LCD projectors and small- and medium-sized LCDs. With an innovative and creative culture, Epson is dedicated to exceeding the vision and expectations of customers worldwide with products known for their superior quality, functionality, compactness and energy efficiency.

Epson is a network of 87,626 employees in 117 companies around the world, and is proud of its ongoing contributions to the global environment and to the communities in which it is located. Led by the Japan-based Seiko Epson Corp., the Group had consolidated sales of 1416 billion yen in fiscal 2006.(c)2008 X-Rite, Inc. All rights reserved. X-Rite is a registered trademark of X-Rite, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.