EAE Desk 7 redefines the standard for modern press control consoles 

Oosterhout - EAE Engineering Automation Electronics GmbH of Ahrensburg (Germany) will take advantage of Drupa 2016 to open a new chapter in the development of control consoles for newspaper presses. The supplier of controls and automation solutions for the graphic industry will show a pioneering concept for the central operating unit which controls a web press: the EAE Desk 7. The new press command centre unites a clear, light and dynamic design with exceptional robustness. The software for the new control console runs on the Windows 10 operating system.

Simplified operation, optimal process visualization

The EAE Desk 7 (the “7” stands for the 7th generation of control console technology made in Ahrensburg) represents a clear commitment to touch operation. Touch screens in portrait format are set into the workspaces on either side of the desk and inputs are now made using softkeys rather than membrane keys. The proven ink zone keyboard, which supports variable web widths and web sections, has been retained. The entire desk surface has been given a tempered glass protector, which is significantly easier to clean due to the lotus effect.

The central, high res (4K) monitor in curved design above the proof copy area is an eye catching feature measuring 1.4 m (55 inches) diagonally. User interface views such as a web press overview, inking and dampening settings, etc. can also be selected there if desired. This production information is visible to the operator from a straight-ahead angle in the spacious cockpit. Furthermore, double-spread newspaper content can be soft-proofed on the large monitor without any problems. A scrolling function is provided for moving quickly from one page to another. 

The control console makes a more harmonious overall impression because there are now fewer monitors on the desk and the operator’s field of vision has been optimized. EAE’s development team attached considerable importance to ergonomic aspects throughout. The desk height can be conveniently adjusted by motorized control to people with different body sizes and a footrest is also integrated. There are trays above the touch screen for storing order documents, etc. The closed cabinet in the base frame which is familiar from previous console generations has plenty of space for the control console PC and other computer hardware.

“The EAE Desk 7 reflects our pledge to drive more innovations for the newspaper printing industry in the future. Our new control console helps control the web press more efficiently and gives printers a better picture of press settings and running processes”, says Werner Ringel, EAE’s Managing Director.

The EAE Desk 7 will be on show at Drupa at the joint EAE and Q.I. Press Controls booth (Hall 16, Stand A16). Visitors will have a chance to experience the modern touch operation in realistic simulations upfront of the official EAE Desk 7 launch, which is scheduled for mid-2017.