Pompey, France 09/21/2006 03:30:00 PM
The XPS Reference RIP implementation that Global Graphics (Euronext: GLOG) has developed for Microsoft Corp. to help hardware and software developers in their XPSDrv driver testing and development for Windows Vista is now available for download from the Microsoft web site (http://www.microsoft.com/whdc/device/print/RRIP.mspx )
Release Candidate 1 (RC1) of Version 1.0 of the XPS Reference RIP heralds the next phase of Global Graphics’ contract with Microsoft under which Global Graphics has been providing consultancy and proof of concept development services on XPS since 2003 and working with the Windows development teams on the specification for the new format.
“The Reference Raster Image Processor is an important addition to the Windows driver developer toolset,” said Madelyn Bryant McIntire, Group Program Manager for the Windows Documents and Printing team at Microsoft. “Global Graphics is a valued industry partner, and we believe our ability to provide its XPS Reference RIP will further accelerate OEM adoption of the XPS format.”
The reference RIP contains version 1.0 of Global Graphics’ core XPS kernel, which has also been delivered to partners who are participating in Global Graphics’ Early Adopter Program. Concurrent with the work it has undertaken directly for Microsoft, Global Graphics has been readying an extended range of commercial solutions based on the same core kernel that it has provided to Microsoft but with features and optimisations above and beyond the reference RIP implementation. The core kernel is designed for integration into solutions for the full range of printing devices from desktop inkjet printers to high-speed digital presses used in commercial printing.
Global Graphics chief technology officer, Martin Bailey says, “Since we launched our XPS Early Adopter Program in September 2005 we have given more than a dozen printer and MFP manufacturers access to our XPS technology. Publication of the "Reference Raster Image Processor" on Microsoft's Windows Developer Kit web site, based on our core kernel, is an exciting step forward in expanding that availability."
Global Graphics’ broader XPS solutions includes an XPS RIP for high performance XPS interpretation; XPS filters to provide more components for host-based workflows; scalable consumption for low-end embedded devices which have limited resources; and, XPS conversion technology for print and print-related workflows and for use in application software. Information on these solutions can be obtained from xpssales@globalgraphics.com
Editor's Notes
About XPS
The XPS (XML Paper Specification) Document format is a paginated, fixed-format, representation of electronic documents and is based on XML and the new graphics architecture that Microsoft is developing alongside Windows Vista. As an open, cross-platform document format, XPS allows users to create, share, print and archive documents. When combined with the new print subsystem, its capabilities as a new page description language mean that it will offer significant improvements in fidelity and increased performance in rich graphics content that users increasingly demand.
About Global Graphics
Global Graphics Software (http://www.globalgraphics.com) is the technology expert for open document and print solutions committed to the continuous development of industry standards. It is a leading developer and supplier of sophisticated high performance RIPs, PDF document, workflow and color solutions mostly to a customer base of Independent Hardware Vendors, system integrators, software developers and resellers. These partners include the world's leading vendors of digital pre-press systems, large-format color printers, color proofing systems, copiers and printers for the corporate and SOHO markets and software applications. Global Graphics Software is a subsidiary of Global Graphics S.A. (Euronext:GLOG)
Glossary
RIP = a Raster Image Processor converts text and images that make up a printed page into printable form. RIPs are used in digital presses, printers, copiers and for transmitting information over the Internet.
PDL = A page description language specifies the arrangement of a printed page through commands from a computer that the printer carries out.
Global Graphics and the smarter alternative are trademarks of Global Graphics Software Limited which may be registered in certain jurisdictions. Global Graphics is a trademark of Global Graphics S.A. which may be registered in certain jurisdictions. PostScript is a trademark of Adobe Systems Incorporated which may be registered in certain jurisdictions. All other brand and product names are the registered trademarks or trademarks of their respective owners.
Contacts
Jill Taylor/Global Graphics
+44 1223 873874
Jill.Taylor@globalgraphics.com
CFO Alain Pronost/Global Graphics
+33 3 83 49 45 08