FUJIFILM North America Corporation, Graphic Systems Division today announced the launch of the second generation of its successful UVISTAR super wide format UV roll inkjet printers. The new Uvistar2 series, available in 3.5 meter and 5 meter platforms, builds on the existing UVISTAR range, adding new imaging technologies that provide higher print quality and productivity than ever before. In combination with FUJIFILM Uvijet QK inks, the Uvistar2 produces high quality super wide format print for both indoor and outdoor applications.

The UVISTAR series, launched in 2010 as the most flexible, cost efficient printer in its class, produces high quality output at throughput speeds in excess of 3,800 sq ft/hour, on substrates up to 5m wide. The first generation UVISTAR was ideal for outdoor billboard and banner applications where UV cured Uvijet QK inks provided an alternative to solvent roll printing and effectively printed on a wide range of substrates, including polyethylene. Uvistar2 handles the same breadth of media and has been developed to meet the growing demands of point-of-purchase applications, where viewing distances tend to be closer.

“In just over a year, the UVISTAR series has filled a need for low cost production of billboards and banners,” said Mitch Bode, vice president, wide format and specialty ink systems, FUJIFILM North America Corporation, Graphic Systems Division. “In keeping with our promise to provide customers with the most innovative technologies available, Uvistar2 offers enhanced capabilities and functionality for cost effective production of high quality point-of-purchase displays. It essentially does it all.”

Uvistar2 incorporates a number of new technologies and refinements to improve the user interface making operation simple, efficient, and more productive:

Parallel Drop Size Technology

One of the major new advancements with Uvistar2 is the use of a unique “Parallel Drop Size” (PDS) technology. PDS technology allows an increase in print quality without compromising speed or ink coverage. This innovative technology enables users to print both larger 40pl drops together with smaller 20pl drops, thereby eliminating the need for “light” colors to achieve superior print quality. Large drops provide greater coverage and density, while small drops enable fine details, all without a reduction in print speed.

Drop Placement Accuracy

A new Linear Encoder monitors printhead location for improved accuracy of drop placement, insuring better print quality and finer detail.

Improved Printhead Heating

Upgraded electronics offer greater control over printhead heating, providing more uniform ink density, improving print quality, especially at lower passes.

Front End Scale-Up Feature

Large files may be ripped to the Uvistar2 in smaller sizes and then scaled up on press, saving RIP time and disk storage space.

On-Press Color Correction

Software enhancements allow for ink adjustments on the press, aiding color match and control.

Multi-Roll Support

Multi-roll capability facilitates quick changeovers between different media types with little waste. Uvistar2 allows users to work simultaneously on as many as three rolls up to 65 inches wide, with cores of varying weights, widths, and diameters. An optional flatbed table allows for printing rigid materials.

Fujifilm will demonstrate the Uvistar2 for the first time in the United States at booth number 425 at the SGIA Expo, October 19 – 21, 2011, at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, New Orleans, Louisiana.

To learn more about the Uvistar2 series of super wide format UV roll inkjet printers, please visit www.fujifilmusa.com/uvistar.