Xeikon Introduces Vectorizor Software Add-on at Labelexpo Americas

EEDE, THE NETHERLANDS—September 11, 2012—Xeikon NV, an innovator in digital color printing technology, today introduced Xeikon Vectorizor, an innovative new software add-on to the Xeikon X-800 digital front-end that defines a new standard in communication with laser diecutting devices.

The new functionality brings the integration of Xeikon digital press technology and laser diecutting devices to the next level, creating new opportunities to further automate label production and increase productivity. Xeikon demonstrated the patent-pending Vectorizor software in the technology corner at Labelexpo Americas this week in Chicago.

Xeikon's patent-pending Vectorizor enables the digital front-end to generate, next to the printable bitmaps, diecut files that can be used to connect to laser diecutting devices.

"Automation and integration are key in making the most out of digital printing," said Jeroen Van Bauwel, Xeikon's director of product marketing. "Now that laser diecutting is coming of age, there is a need to drive the diecutter automatically. Xeikon Vectorizor is the perfect tool for doing that. Our customers are driving us to innovate. Xeikon is continuously leveraging its intimate knowledge of its customers' opportunities and challenges to develop novel products tailored to specific needs in the
market. Xeikon Vectorizor is a great example of that."

From JDF or PDF files generated by a Management Information System (MIS) or Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system, the Xeikon X-800 creates vector-based files to drive laser diecutting devices. These files contain the shape of "frames" and are transferred to the laser diecutting device. At the same time, barcodes are printed next to the labels telling the laser diecutting system which of the vector based shapes to use. Because every label can have a different shape, in the complete workflow, only the digital front-end knows what labels are positioned where on the web.

About Xeikon

Xeikon NV (XEI: AEX) is an innovator in digital printing technology. The company designs, develops and delivers web-fed digital color presses for labels and packaging applications, document printing, as well as commercial printing. These presses utilize LED-array-based dry toner electrophotography, open workflow software and application-specific toners.

As an OEM supplier, Xeikon designs and produces plate makers for newspaper offset printing applications. Xeikon also manufactures basysPrint computer-to-plate (CtP) solutions for the commercial printing market. These proven CtP systems combine the latest exposure techniques with cost-efficient UV plate technology, high imaging quality and flexibility.

For the flexographic market, Xeikon offers digital platemaking systems under the ThermoFlexX brand name. ThermoFlexX systems provide high-resolution plate exposure, including screening, color management, as well as workflow management.

All the Xeikon solutions are designed with the overarching principles of profitability, quality, flexibility and sustainability in mind. With these guiding principles and a deep, intimate knowledge of its customers, Xeikon continues to be one of the industry's leading innovators of products and solutions.

Source: Xeikon.