FUJIFILM Corporation todayannounces V2.0 of its advanced pre-media workflow, FUJIFILM Workflow XMF, that will bring further benefits to commercial printers operating both traditional analogue and digital print processes.

FUJIFILM Corporation today announces V2.0 of its advanced pre-media workflow, FUJIFILM Workflow XMF, that will bring further benefits to commercial printers operating both traditional analogue and digital print processes. Under the banner "DIGITAL

POWER AT YOUR CONTROL", FUJIFILM will be demonstrating how V2.0 of XMF can bring further control to multi-output print processes through the introduction of FUJIFILM's unique intelligent automation and image processing technology. Based on the PDF Print Engine from Adobe, XMF V2.0 brings better control of quality across different print processes, improved efficiency, better productivity and dramatically improves the communications with print buyers and specifiers. The major enhancements to V2.0 of XMF are as follows:

i) Collaborative online proofing and web communication

FUJIFILM Workflow XMF V2.0 introduces an enhanced web-based communications module featuring tools such as XMF Remote (including a unique 3D "mock-up" of the actual imposed job). These tools helps improve communications with print specifiers as they feature comprehensive job submission, approval and online proofing functionality.

However, XMF V2.0 takes these features one step further as it incorporates FUJIFILM's unique colour management technologies, "Dynamic Colour Management" and "Appearance Matching Model". These technologies can simulate the actual appearance of a print job in the environment in which it will appear, and take into account such variables as the paper type and ink used. This functionality takes the concept of soft proofing one stage further, allowing commercial printers to add further value to their service offering, reducing the amount of re-work and the potential for error.

ii) Dynamic and enhanced hybrid workflow

In V2.0 of XMF, FUJFIILM has enhanced the intelligent automation built into the core product, making it possible to switch automatically from one type of media output to another, by enhancing FUJFIILM's built-in imposition and colour management functionality. By utilising JDF, FUJFIILM has built a true-hybrid workflow where the imposition and colour management of a PDF job can automatically be reworked to suit multiple output devices very quickly and easily, bringing unprecedented flexibility and control to complex print operations.

iii) Intelligent image optimisation

FUJFIILM launches XMF C-Fit; an Intelligent image optimization module FUJFIILM is introducing an image optimization module into XMF, called XMF C-Fit, to add further value to the services printers offer their customers. FUJFIILM's Image IntelligenceTM technologies built into XMF CFit automate the process of analysing and improving RGB images that arrive from various sources. XMF C-Fit incorporates a number of FUJFIILM image processing algorithms, including Face Recognition and Skin Smoothing, Light Source Recognition, Exposure and White Balance Adjustment, and Sharpness Enhancement, to create an RGB Digital Master.

XMF C-Fit's colour Appearance Matching technology maps the colour gamut of the RGB Digital Master to the maximum gamut potential of the profiled target device. It also allows users to convert RGB files to CMYK without changing or losing the feel of RGB images to ensure the best possible colour conversion from original to printed image. XMF C-Fit is also very easy to use, utilising a Hot Folder based workflow with drag and drop operation. This new module within XMF gives printers the opportunity to offer improved and enhanced services to their existing customers as well as the ability to offer a unique service to attract new business.

The core technology supporting many of the enhancements in XMF is FUJIFILM's unique colour image processing technology, Image IntelligenceTM, a technology which originated in FUJFIILM's minilab systems and now being utilised in many other FUJFIILM products. This core technology includes:

• "Appearance Matching" technology designed to match the appearance, taking viewing environment and output media into account.

• Dynamic Colour Management technology that actively changes the output target settings (paper, ink, printing format etc.) and simulates the finish.

• Image IntelligenceTM image processing technology into which FUJIFILM channeled its know-how cultivated through the imaging technology development