ROCHESTER, N.Y., February 2 -- Kodak Professional today announced that Durst Dice America LLC has been given a non-exclusive license to market the Kodak Photo CD system, as well as develop and support a next-generation Photo CD scanning system based on world-class Kodak technology for delivery before the end of June 2001. The agreement with Durst Dice America means continued development and support of the highly regarded Kodak Photo CD system, providing system users with a clear path forward for their continued reliance upon this popular imaging tool. Designed primarily for imaging professionals, the Kodak Photo CD system has become an industry standard that offers powerful capabilities for viewing, storing and working with images. The system builds a bridge from film photography to the desktop computer by combining the quality and convenience of professional photography with the benefits of being able to display, enhance, store and transmit images electronically. "We recognize that the Kodak Photo CD system has a strong and loyal customer base, and it has always been our goal to ensure that there was a reliable technology path with a system that matched our own high standards," said Donald Pillittere, Worldwide Product Manager, Scanners, Kodak Professional. "This agreement with Durst Dice America, a respected manufacturer, means those customers will continue to have full support and a future opportunity to migrate to a newer version of the system which is less than a half year away." To be jointly developed, the new NT-based PCD system will provide a complete solution for scanning 35mm-to-70mm format film onto Kodak Photo CD Master and Portfolio II discs. The system will deliver high-quality scans and productivity for large photographic archives making it an excellent option for service bureaus, government agencies, corporations, publishing houses, ad agencies and cultural and educational institutions. The new system will include a Kodak Professional RFS 3570 Plus scanner, a PC with a 19-inch monitor and writer, a Windows operating system, a Photo CD application, and an optional Auto Film Advance accessory. It will include a scene balance algorithm for excellent first time scans, and film terms developed by Kodak. Enhancement controls will allow for the adjustment of color balance, density, saturation and contrast.