In response to demand from its customers, NUR Macroprinters has announced three important upgrades for its versatile Tempo UV-curable flat-bed printer, all of which are designed to optimise productivity and simplify operation. Currently in late beta, and ready for launch in Q2, extra speed options have been introduced, along with shorter start-up times and software refinements for ease of use. The NUR Tempo was originally launched in 2003 and is a modular wide-format machine which can be purchased in four- or eight-colour versions, with white ink and roll-to-roll options available. The new speed upgrades include both hardware and software modifications and are complemented by additional print modes for optimal performance. The first refinement to the Tempo relates to the shutters which form part of the UV-curing system used to provide instant-dry results on all materials. Now featuring linear shutters for additional reliability, start-up times have also been reduced to just ten seconds and the life expectancy of the UV lamps has also been extended. There is now a choice of three new print options with the Tempo. In Xpress mode the machine utilises four colours and can output at speeds of up to 110 square m/hour. This type of output is used typically for hoardings and billboards. The second mode, designated Press II, also uses four colours but outputs in higher quality at speeds of up to 60 square m/hour. Press II is suitable for the production of point-of-sale applications and general displays. Finepress II uses all eight colours in the Tempo and has a throughput speed of up to 42 square m/hour. Typical applications include displays which are designed for close viewing and, thus, require attention to detail, as well as fine art and photographic output. The final enhancement to the Tempo is within its Printop II software suite which now features enhanced queue management, step-and-repeat, a new management module and fully automatic calibration and print mode change. The interface has been modified for ease of use and navigation, with powerful options for organising print queues and status windows. The refined calibration feature enables automatic analysing of files, print-head position and size and this information is saved, thus saving time when repeat settings are required. Printop II also has its own management module which covers all commonly needed functions required for individual jobs. Its reporting capability includes details of work which has been printed, plus the time taken, full information about the substrate type, ink consumption and print mode, along with the calibration set and the job's file size and dimensions. All data within the management module can be exported to a Microsoft Excel file. The NUR Tempo, which has now achieved more than 120 installations world-wide, is designed for screen-printers, sign-makers and digital producers who want to output to rigid materials and benefit from UV-curable ink technology. The machine has a maximum printing area of 3.2 x 2 m and can print direct to virtually all types of substrate. The Tempo represents part of the NUR portfolio of wide- and grand-format solutions which includes the Expedio UV-curable and Fresco solvent-based roll-to-roll printers. For further information about the NUR Tempo contact Melanie Marin, marketing communications, at NUR Europe on 0032 10 48 75 52, e-mail [email protected]