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Metrix XML breakthrough
LithoTechnics, Australian manufacturer of the ground-breaking automated layout calculator, Metrix, are introducing an enhanced tool for importing and exporting data, reports UK distributor Positive Focus. Metrix produces layouts (impositions) for multiple jobs within a project, taking account of the number of each required and physical properties like sheet size, paper grain and bleed.
Metrix is JDF compliant but the ganging function, which gives Metrix users a significant commercial edge, is not defined within JDF itself. MetrixXML (MXML) will feature in v2.0 of Metrix and allows ganged jobs to be handled correctly.
‘Since version 1.0, Metrix has supported JDF, and this support has grown with each new release’ says Rohan Holt, founder and CEO of LithoTechnics. ‘In Metrix version 2.0, our JDF support has again grown significantly. Metrix 2.0 imports and reads ImpositionPreparation grayboxes, a common JDF graybox used for describing bound type jobs. Bound type jobs are fully supported in Metrix 2.0.’
’JDF still lacks a clear and simple way of defining gang run jobs, and this frustrates our users who want to fully exploit the benefits of Metrix and who need a seamless exchange of data with their MIS. Metrix 2.0 introduces a new way of exchanging data with Metrix, called MetrixXML, or MXML. MXML is a simple file format that has similarities to some parts of JDF, but is essentially based on the internal Metrix data model. I'm glad to finally have a foolproof way of getting product and project metadata in and out of Metrix.’’MXML can be imported via the user interface or a hot folder. Metrix imports both JDF and MXML in the exact same manner, determining on-the-fly what sort of file it is dealing with. MXML can also be exported, just like JDF, PDF, CIP3, or Preps Templates. MXML opens up virtually every property of the Metrix data model, enabling unprecedented interoperability. It fully supports folded and bound jobs too, so every type of job that Metrix 2.0 can handle can be expressed in MXML.’
Metrix 2.0 was shown at IPEX as a technology preview, and will be available in the autumn. Anyone purchasing Metrix 1.7 now will get a free upgrade to v2.0. The first UK public showing will be at Digital Print World, on Stand 528, where Positive Focus will be offering comprehensive demonstrations, and will discuss the potential for automatically ganging jobs together. For an example of ganging savings on real-world jobs, contact Positive Focus on 08456 120 246.About Positive Focus
Positive Focus has over 25 years experience in production for print. We are independent distributors and integrators of best of breed software solutions from innovative manufacturers, including Kodak Graphic Communications, XMPie, LithoTechnics, Global Graphics Software, Gradual Software, Apago Inc., Callas Software, Hamillroad, Serendipity and IceniTechnology. Our areas of expertise include Imposition, JDF integration, Workflow automation, PDF technologies, Proofing and Personalisation.Press Contacts:
Ivor Dixon
Positive Focus
12c Shepperton Business Park
Govett Avenue
Shepperton
Middlesex
TW17 8BA
Tel +44 (0) 8456 120 246
Fax +44 (0) 8456 120 248
Distributors and integrators of workflow solutions for graphics, print and communication.
Imposition Tools : JDF Integration : Proofing : PDF : Personalisation
PUBLISHED 17-08-06
