Ghent, Belgium – Version 7.5 of PACKZ, HYBRID Software’s native PDF editor, delivers the next generation of prepress software for labels and packaging. STEPZ 7.5 is being released concurrently for digital printing applications. Both tools provide bespoke solutions for prepress experts who require high efficiency, quality, and performance in preparing packaging files for conventional or digital printing.

Production jobs in the packaging industry have been increasing and as a result, many package printers and converters are converting to data-driven production. Pactions 7.5, the automated toolset in PACKZ and STEPZ with parameterized action lists, responds to the needs of these customers for advanced automation. This powerful tool decreases the amount of operator time needed to get a new package design edited, approved, and printed and connects seamlessly to packaging RIPs, workflows, and Digital Front Ends (DFEs). Pactions can also be used for barcode generation, including the GS1 Digital Link Datamatrix code.

In-App Solution Store
PACKZ and STEPZ now offer a direct link to HYBRID Software’s online store, allowing customers to download ready-made templates, dynamic marks, and metadata export filters quickly as required for new production methods or job types.

Key Improvements 7.5 Versions
Both PACKZ and STEPZ 7.5 support the newest M1 processors from Apple for real-time editing.

Complex layered artwork can be viewed in color and wired mode simultaneously, and object-based screenings can be inspected per separation. Enhancements to the Smart Flattener guarantee artwork quality and consistency, professionally managing spot color and transparency interactions as well as press gamut conversions.

PACKZ 7.5 automatically tags artwork elements with Processing Steps defined in the ISO 19593 standard, while the Analyze and Fix technology checks incoming files for compliance.

HYBRID Software continues to champion innovation on behalf of label and packaging printers and tradeshops to surpass their requirements for accuracy, cost reduction, process automation, and faster turnaround times.

www.hybridsoftware.com