DÜSSELDORF, GERMANY, May 31-The new KODAK MAGNUS 800Z Quantum Platesetter, with its output capacity of 60 eight up plates per hour, replaces two existing platesetters at Mechanicsburg, Penn. based Fry Communications and is reliably meeting production needs 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The unit has been in service since late March and is one of seven  KODAK Platesetters across the company.

"We have always favored Kodak imaging technology, and this new device is meeting and exceeding our expectations," said Alan Snyder, Prepress Operations Manager, Fry Communications. "When we get positive feedback from the production floor, we know we've made the right choice. It is a great reflection on the equipment."

Fry Communications, one of the United States' largest privately held integrated communications companies, employs nearly 1,200 in five facilities occupying 1 million square feet of space. The company began in 1934 as one of the first publishers of weekly shopping guides and brought printing in house with its first offset press in 1967. Over the years, Fry has grown into the business to business catalog and trade and consumer magazine markets with nearly two dozen presses, more than two dozen binders, and a vast array of auxiliary equipment.

The company investigated a number of options, and felt that the hourly throughput of the KODAK MAGNUS 800Z Quantum Platesetter would be an advantage, particularly in the production of its weeklies. Using KODAK STACCATO Screening for high quality color reproduction, the company produces a wide variety of products on its sheetfed and web offset presses. Fry feels that it's important for customers to see them investing in cutting edge technology, and the KODAK MAGNUS 800Z Quantum Platesetter delivers benefits today while also positioning the company for growth in the future.

The KODAK MAGNUS 800Z Quantum Platesetter uses a new, advanced thermal head that generates double the laser power of its MAGNUS Platesetter predecessors. The new thermal head not only increases the speed of plate production, but it also provides broader imaging latitude and higher stability in case of plate sensitivity variations-making this one of the most reliable and cost effective platesetters on the market.

For Rick Fesler, Fry Communications Prepress Manager, the biggest advantage so far is that the device has been running constantly with no performance or maintenance issues. "Installing a new piece of equipment into any workflow is not always a smooth process," he explained. "But the Kodak technicians did a great job, and the training and support we got made it a very positive experience. The number of plates coming off the device is amazing-it's been the perfect solution for our tight deadlines."

Fry Communications uses KODAK THERMAL GOLD Digital Plates in its production and employs the KODAK PRINERGY Workflow System to drive the production processes in its facility. The company has won a number of industry awards over the years, and continues to expand and diversify with new equipment and new services.

Executives from Fry Communications see drupa as the perfect opportunity to explore the latest products and solutions, and network with peers from around the world. The ability to gain an understanding of global market trends and speak with so many experts in one place is a key advantage for businesses committed to long term success.

KODAK Products are backed by KODAK Service and Support. KODAK Service and Support is made up of more than 3,000 professionals reaching more than 120 countries. It is a leading multi vendor integrated services provider, delivering consulting, installation, maintenance and support services for the commercial printing, graphic communications, document imaging and data storage industries. KODAK Service and Support professionals are uniquely qualified to provide services that control costs, maximize productivity, and minimize business risk.