Düsseldorf, Germany — MAN Roland has upgraded and unified the control consoles on its 300, 500, 700 and 900 sheetfed press lines. Compatible control consoles are also being released for the company’s web press models, making it easier for press crews to learn and run virtually any MAN Roland model. The new standardized design consists of a press control console and a color-matching desk, which can be installed on either side of the main controls. The new console maximizes the functionality and positioning of its buttons and indicators. An adjustable flat screen display is also incorporated into the design to provide optimal viewing angles for different operators. Improving on the previous design, the new control console provides more direct access to the unit’s JobCard Reader and adds extra storage space for pressroom necessities. A digital keyboard slides out from under the control surfaces, ready for inputting detailed makeready parameters. The software that drives the console has also been upgraded. Graphics that show the status of press components in operation are rendered more realistically to provide a clearer picture of how the press is performing during every phase of production. The appearance of the status screens has also been standardized across MAN Roland’s sheetfed press lines. The new color-matching desk that accompanies the control console provides a pedestal for press proofs upon which it shines color-standardized illumination. The Remote Control Inking (RCI) indicators and sliders are built into the unit for fast adjustment of individual ink fountains. Controls for water surge, inking up, de-inking, all register corrections and other job preparation functions are also provided. An optional comfort package for the control console and color matching module combination is also being demonstrated at drupa. It adds a motorized tilt adjustment to the color matching desk, more storage draws and an ambient light shield. An optional large ink profile display is also available with the comfort package. The digitally driven device resides at the back of the desk to provide operators with a big picture perspective on this vital function. A basic console option will also soon be available for MAN Roland’s 29-inch six-up press lines — the ROLAND 300 and the ROLAND 500. It incorporates a color-matching desk into the control console. Additional details can be obtained at www.manroland.com or at 1.800.268.4673.