Cambridge, UK: Global Graphics Software, a Hybrid Software company and developer of smart software components for print OEMs, announces the extension of its strategic partnership with Mimaki Engineering, a leading Japanese manufacturer of wide-format inkjet printers and cutting systems. The renewed agreement will see Mimaki continue to license Global Graphics’ Harlequin Core™ technology for its latest RasterLink RIP software, which drives its extensive range of wide-format, roll-to-roll and flatbed industrial inkjet printers.

Daisuke Takai, Deputy General Manager - Software Design Department, Mimaki Engineering, highlights the value of Harlequin Core to their operations: “We chose Harlequin for RasterLink7 to boost the performance and versatility of our printers, and it has delivered impressive results. We have experienced up to 25% faster PDF processing times and enhanced functionality when handling variable data. Additionally, Harlequin Core has improved our reproduction of complex design elements, like transparency.”

Harlequin Core is widely acknowledged as the fastest Raster Image Processor (RIP) on the market. It converts a page description language, for example PDF, into a format that can be interpreted by a printing device, such as an inkjet printhead, toner marking engine or laser platesetter. Its speed and precision make it the preferred RIP technology for many digital press solutions, consistently delivering output far exceeding the rated speeds of today’s most advanced printing devices. Additional capabilities include full support for the latest platforms, latest PDF specifications and extended color gamut printing.

Yoshiyuki Hagiwara, Representative Director, Global Graphics KK in Japan, comments: “We are delighted to extend our long-standing collaboration with Mimaki. This renewed agreement highlights the exceptional performance and reliability of Harlequin Core. Since its introduction in 1986, Harlequin has earned a strong reputation in the market as a fast, dependable RIP solution, trusted by leading press manufacturers. Its flexibility and extensive customization options enable our customers to deliver tailored solutions that drive their success.”

Mimaki Engineering is the third major Japanese printer manufacturer in the wide-format and industrial print sector to renew its Harlequin Core license in 2024, further solidifying its market-leading position. Harlequin's independence from third-party intellectual property, combined with its status as a vendor-neutral technology developed by an independent, publicly traded company, makes it a valuable asset for these manufacturers. This allows Harlequin to maintain its own roadmap, free from influence or investment by printer manufacturers.