Xitron Announces new versions of XiFlow Workflow and Navigator RIP

XiFlow 2.0 and Navigator 6.4 add new PDF and JDF handling tools

May 6, 2004 DRUPA Düsseldorf, Germany -- Xitron, the industry’s leading independent developer and integrator of Raster Image Processors and workflow solutions, announces new versions of XiFlow and Navigator RIP. Xiflow 2.0 and Navigator 6.4 include new enhancements to support PDF creation/conversion, Preflighting and JDF compliance.

XiFlow is a workflow solution for Navigator and other Harlequin® RIPs. XiFlow runs as a server and controls the flow of jobs directed towards up to three RIPs. Using a graphical user interface, operators define workflows for the various steps needed to complete a specific job including basic job management, preflighting and output for both proofing and film or plate. Client software for both PC and Macs allow prepress operators to manage jobs without leaving their workstations

XiFlow 2.0 includes many enhancements designed to enhance user productivity. The new PDF Stabilizer converts incoming PostScript® and PDF files to an optimized PDF format for prepress workflow and output. The Stabilizer assures all incoming PostScript and PDF files conform to a unified standard PDF that will output consistently on various devices from the proofer to the final output device. Stabilized PDFs will also RIP faster when it is time to render the job for final output.

The new Preflight Checker in XiFlow 2.0 allows users to automatically preflight jobs in XiFlow using state-of-the-art libraries licensed from Enfocus. Jobs with errors will automatically be paused in XiFlow. Users can view a report outlining the errors and warnings in the job. Hyperlinks in the report open the PDF file and display the page where the problem occurs. Many problems can be fixed in Acrobat using Enfocus PitStop tools without having to open the file again in the native application. When the file is corrected the operator simply saves the PDF and releases the job in XiFlow allowing it to continue processing. Enfocus Actions Lists automate fixes for the most common problems.

Automating the use of PDF files one step further is the use of Certified PDFs. Printers supply customers with Enfocus Certified PDF profiles using the proper settings to output jobs in their shop. The customer uses the profile when creating PDFs for production. XiFlow checks the incoming PDF file to see if the job is a Certified PDF. If it passes the file goes through, if there is a problem it is paused by the Preflight Checker.
Also new with XiFlow 2.0 is the JDF Enabler. The JDF Enabler allows XiFlow to interpret JDF commands and pass the information on to the RIP. Demonstrations of the JDF enabler will show the handling of JDF imposition templates from Dynagram’s DynaStrip. Incoming JDF files will have instructions on how to output the file. XiFlow will decipher this information and pass the instructions to the Navigator RIP for output.

XiFlow 2.0 and Navigator 6.4 integrate Cortex™ technology – announced today by Global Graphics. Cortex is Global Graphics’ family of core technology modules for creating applications and digital print workflows. Cortex is designed to allow Global Graphics OEM partners to create their own user interface to control the various modules and provide their customers with a unique product. Xitron is previewing both XiFlow 2.0 and Navigator 6.4 in their stand at DRUPA 2004.

“Demands for prepress automation are on the rise. Deadlines are compressing as shops transition to an all digital workflow eliminating more of the labor-intensive manual work of the past. XiFlow, an automated prepress workflow solution from Xitron incorporating Global Graphics technology, helps users meet these demands while bringing control to the prepress department,” explains Bill Owens, Product Manager Navigator Solutions, Xitron.

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About Xitron

Xitron manufactures productive, flexible workflow systems and interfaces designed to drive the pre-press industry’s most popular new output devices as well as its legacy systems, prolonging their life and protecting our customer’s investments. Xitron’s Navigator RIP, Raster Blaster TIFF Catcher, and Xenith Workflow solutions are recognized as pre-press standards. Built around core technology from Global Graphics and Adobe Systems, Xitron engineers continue to develop stable, yet flexible solutions for the graphic arts market, driving over 150 different models of imagesetters, proofers, platesetters, and digital presses. For more information about Xitron, our products, OEM opportunities, or becoming a Xitron dealer, visit us at www.xitron.com.

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