Mahwah, NJ and Sterling, VA October 15, 2008  – Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America and Cryptek, Inc., a leading provider of secure networking products and solutions, today announced that Sharp multi-function peripherals (MFPs) can be  equipped with the DCL310S - Netgard MFD card-reader appliance from Cryptek to meet the needs of U.S. Government agencies and other organizations that require advanced identification security for use of MFPs.

Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA) a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, markets the advanced, color MX Series and new Frontier Series of multifunctional peripheral (MFP) systems that help companies manage workflow efficiently and increase productivity. The Sharp MFP line was has been named "Product Line of the Year" by Buyer's Laboratory Inc. (BLI), recognizing it as the industry's best product line. 

Sharp is now able to offer security-minded customers a unique authentication solution for their MFPs that enforces stringent security standards for devices that scan and copy documents electronically. The addition of Cryptek DCL310S -Netgard MFD technology provides enhanced network protection for the Sharp MFPs by electronically securing them so that users must first insert an identity access card, such as the Department of Defense (DOD)-issued Common Access Card (CAC), and personal identification number (PIN) authentication before initiating workflow processes from the MFP.

 "Sharp has always been a leader in secure document communications, and offering the option of Cryptek technology enhances our ability to deliver the highest standards in document security," said Mike Marusic, vice president, marketing, SIICA.   By integrating the DCL310S -Netgard MFD appliance into our offerings, we now have a strong offering to meet the needs of our most security-focused customers."

"Cryptek is pleased to be working with document imaging leader Sharp as we introduce new products that leverage our core competence in information security," said Gary Hobbs, Cryptek President & CEO.  "Our reseller agreement with Sharp for access control using our new Netgard MFD product will help extend the benefits of Sharp multi-function printers to even more customers that need to comply with strict security standards."

Secure identity cards are issued to federal employees and staff in security-sensitive organizations to verify the identity and access privileges of users. Sharp MFPs, when fitted with Netgard MFD appliances from Cryptek, restrict access to authorized employees who are permitted to access the network through an MFD. This solution is designed to meet federal agency common identification standards for all federal employees and contractors in response to the Homeland Security Presidential Directive (HSPD-12).