Innovative software manufacturer Shiraz Software has announced a new generation of its RIP Server, Signature and Focus solutions which will allow users easier management of an unparalleled range of functions designed to streamline production and improve revenue. Fronted by a sleek, accessible Dashboard, the Shiraz V8 release has placed customer feedback at the heart of redevelopment and focused on creating an unbeatable, accessible user experience for wide-format printers.
 
A full-scale rebuild of the underlying architecture sees the entire Shiraz range updated with faster and smarter RIP functionality, as well as an enhanced customer service module with sophisticated remote access and extended support for machines from several manufacturers. With native support for the latest Windows 7 and Mac OS X Lion operating systems, Shiraz V8 includes a Live Update facility which checks automatically for software upgrades, new media profiles and performance-enhancing tweaks, installing them with minimal interferences to the software's operation.
 
The new Dashboard facility in Shiraz V8 makes switching between frequently-used components a matter of seconds, not minutes spent loading different modules. This extremely intuitive interface enables novice users to learn control of their print environment quickly without compromising on the extended functionality expected of Shiraz by advanced operators. Meanwhile, across all versions of the new Shiraz programs, the powerful new RIP Buffering and Hyper RIP features deliver multi-threading in the print queue, allowing multiple jobs to RIP and print while others RIP ahead ready for immediate print, thereby increasing production efficiency.
 
Shiraz Server V8, Shiraz's complete solution for RIP workflow management for environments with multiple users and devices, sets new standards in speed, stability and ease-of-use, reducing management and processing times and improving throughput and accuracy. Server V8 now includes a HPGL/2 engine to support rendering and printing of vector and raster files. Developed especially for use in design, graphic arts, engineering, architecture and GIS mapping environments, the new HPGL/2 engine allows for large-format printing without the need for costly specialist solutions for individual applications.
 
For smaller wide-format facilities which nevertheless require a top-flight RIP solution, Shiraz Signature V8 promises a number of significant improvements, whilst retaining the powerful RIP capabilities that have made it Shiraz's leading production option. Alongside the redesigned user interface, it incorporates new developments in image management for smarter printing. Signature V8 is now available in single-user Solo or multi-user Server editions.
 
The faster, more instinctive user interface of Shiraz Focus V4 (also available in Solo or Server editions), for fine art and photographic output, offers a host of innovative features for printing even complex gallery wraps with ease. Users now have the ability to split and visualise an image over any number of rows and columns for complex, triptych-style presentation ideas, and can also use the unique Ruby Gallery Wrap feature to arrange images for canvas wraps in an eye-catching diamond formation.
 
Also included in V8 release are the latest printer drivers for all the leading manufacturers such as HP Latex L26500 & L28500, Epson R3000, Seiko H2 series, Mutoh ValueJet 1324/1624 and Mimaki UJF3042, as well as many others.
 
"Many of the improvements we have made across the whole Shiraz V8 suite came from talking to our customers and finding out what they wanted, taking into account the work they are producing and working out how we can make it easier for them," says Ramin Shahbazi, business development director, Shiraz Software. "That's how we know that Focus V4 and Signature and Server V8 are offering what users really need: a clean, intuitive and fast interface with the powerful underlying architecture which delivers perfect prints every time."
 
The next generation of Shiraz's RIP solution suite will be commercially available in January 2012.