Epson introduces ‘nerve centre’ for SC-S series

Epson (1-F50) has unveiled the Epson Control Dashboard, a browser-based management and productivity application available exclusively for its new SureColor SC-S range of printers.

The dashboard is said to act as the ‘nerve centre’ for up to four print devices, providing the interface to the company’s extensive online database of media profiles. It is a productivity application that helps operators to set up and optimise print output parameters quickly and easily.

Operators are able to select the required media type and desired print settings within the dashboard’s user interface to print on a new stock. 

The dashboard then automatically downloads an all-inclusive EMX (Epson Media Extension) profile – which contains an ICC profile, print output parameters and print mode-specific data such as optimised ink densities and half toning – and configures printer and RIP settings.

Epson Europe product manager Dominic Fowler said: “What would have taken an operator several hours to perfect is now available at a click of a button.” 

The Control Dashboard also provides a range of printer status and diagnostic features. As well as displaying information such as ink quantity, preheating information and nozzle checks, it allows device firmware updates and can display service information.

The SureColor SC-S series comprises three 64in (1.62m)-wide printers that are designed to deliver increased quality, productivity and durability and lower running costs.

The highest specification model in the range – the SC-S80600 – is being shown in public for the first time at Fespa Digital.

The SC-S80600 features dual PrecisionCore TFP printheads and nine or 10 colours: CMYK, light cyan, light magenta, light black, red, for producing brand spot colours, and orange, and can also be configured to use white or metallic silver.

The machine, which is available for around €20,000, can print at up to 95.1m2/hr in single-pass banner mode and at up to 12.5m2/hr in eight-pass film mode.

Epson Europe senior product manager Richard Barrow said: “The reaction to the SC-S80600 at Fespa Digital has been phenomenal.

“The Benelux market in particular is very much in tune with what’s in 10-colour; their print service providers very much like to target corporate style customers and hitting spot colours is a big fundamental requirement.”

Barrow said the other highlight on Epson’s stand is the 64in SureColor SC-P20000, which prints at speeds of up to 17.5m2/hr and is designed for commercial printers, copy shops, photo labs and high-street photo outlets.

The machine, which is also being shown in public for the first time at Fespa Digital, is available for around €11,000. It can be used to produce high-quality large-format POS, short-term outdoor and interior signage, exhibition and display graphics, promotional graphics and photographs.