New tools deliver improved functionality and throughput to sign and large format print providers

Salt Lake City, Utah, USA - SA International (SAi), a leading provider of solutions for the professional signmaking, large format digital printing and CAD/CAM for CNC machining industries, will use SGIA Expo (Las Vegas, October 22-24) to launch a new suite of performance-enhancing finishing tools, drivers and upgrades for its flagship SAi Flexi signmaking software.

The SAi booth (2362) will also feature live workflow demonstrations highlighting fast, efficient throughput from file preparation, to printing and cutting. Two large format printers, an HP Latex 300 Printer and a Mutoh VJ-1624, will output applications that highlight the feature-rich capabilities of SAi Flexi software, with printed products being automatically cut on a Mutoh ValueCut VC-1300. Visitors to SAi’s booth can also look forward to informative presentations by sign-industry guru, Mark Rugen, and a chance to win a Flexi training DVD as part of SAi’s Las Vegas experience.

Faster job processing for improved workflow efficiency

With the new tools for SAi Flexi and Flexi Design, sign and large format print providers can now reduce the time taken to finish pop-up and hanging banners, thereby adding value and boosting productivity and profitability.

The first finishing tool uses SAi Flexi RIP software to add grommet, fold and stitch marks as well as bleeds to banners. By handling this operation in the RIP, the design step in the workflow is eliminated, making it much faster and more cost effective to produce pop-up signs that require bleeds or pole-hanging banners needing fold areas. Even complicated mirror and duplicate bleeds can be easily handled. By eliminating manual measuring, between 5-15 minutes can be saved on each banner, while accuracy is also greatly improved.

Integrated QR Code Creator for Flexi

The second new Flexi tool is the QR Code Creator, which enables fast and easy QR code creation by automatically converting text into a QR code. Codes for web-links, email addresses, phone numbers and SMS messages are generated without the need for designers to download QR code images and add to designs. In addition, another useful feature enables the creation of QR codes for Google Map locations.

The new tool integrates the QR Code Creator with Flexi’s Auto Serialization Tool for printing a sequence of interactive banners. This adds a new dimension – and value – to banners when multiple versions are being printed while keeping the workflow running quickly and smoothly.

New printer and cutter drivers from major manufacturers are also part of the package of enhancements to ensure that users are output device independent.

All tools and features will be available to subscribers to SAi Flexi* on release after SGIA. The new tools, comprising Service Pack 6 for SAi Flexi 11, can be purchased and added to some product levels.

Seamless production

Improved print-to-cut workflows to accelerate production without sacrificing accuracy will be demonstrated by showing how multiple printers using SAi Flexi software can drive a separate cutting device. This capability speeds throughput and adds versatility while minimizing operator intervention. With the ability to handle a range of applications and media, signmakers can extend the services, attract new business and do more for existing customers.

Live presentations and chance to win a training DVD

Throughout the show, Mark Rugen, president, Givemehelp, Inc., and training expert in the graphic arts industry, will be presenting and providing useful information and advice about how to get the most from SAi Flexi, use of the Cloud and the benefits of subscription software.

Visitors to SAi’s booth will also have the chance to win a Flexi training DVD. Each day of SGIA Expo, two names will be drawn from those visitors whose badges have been scanned that day – but just like at the casino – the lucky winner will have to be on hand to claim the prize!

“SGIA will be an excellent launch platform for our new Flexi finishing tools,” says Sarit Tichon, Senior VP, Worldwide Sales & Marketing at SAi. “Print and sign buyers are always looking for something new, and SAi Flexi’s finishing tools, along with a robust print-to-cut solution, means that we are able to give our customers the ability to meet those demands and help them remain competitive and profitable.”