Photography News 

Colour layering improves HP print quality

Hewlett-Packard (HP) has announced what it promises to be a new breakthrough in colour reproduction with the introduction of the latest version of its colour layering technology.
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John Duckworth from HP UK claims its new PhotoREt IV system heralds digital prints 'equivalent to the quality of professional silver halide photographs'. Producing more than 350x the number of different colours than HP's previous ink delivery system, the improved performance has been achieved by delivering an increased number of minute ink droplets
precisely within a single dot. HP says the results provide a significantly broader range of colours to create more lifelike skin tones.

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Three new backs from Jenoptik

Jenoptik has introduced three new digital backs to its MF range, first previewed at the PMA 2002 trade show in Florida earlier this year (BJP, 27 February).

The three Eyelike Precision backs feature Firewire connectivity (with a 10m cable) and are available in a choice of three maximum resolution settings; 6m, 11m, and 16m pixels. Further configurations are offered, with single or multiple-shot capture modes, making file sizes from 18MB to 381MB possible. Customers can chose to buy a lower priced single-shot back now and then upgrade to a multiple-shot mode later. The configurations include a one-shot plus mode, that incorporate an anti-moir� function, together with four-shot and 16-shot modes.

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Kodak launches 'use functions'

Kodak is introducing a new docking station and upgraded software with the launch of its latest compact digital camera, designed to make finding and delivering images even easier.

The new CX4230 2m pixel resolution camera allows users to tag captured images with use functions: when placed in the docking station - which also acts as a power charger - the images are uploaded to a computer and automatically opened for a specific application, such as printing or e-mailing. In addition, on-camera functions enable users to tag the
number of prints required, or even a particular e-mail address.
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photoexpert.co.uk is EPSON's new digital photography web site. 

It is a treasure trove of resource for digital photographers with articles from leading professionals, photo-galleries, tutorials with expert guidance aimed at improving technique, and details of EPSON products specifically for the digital photographic user. 

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Software upgrade for Dimage 7 SLR

Minolta is to launch a new software kit for users of its Dimage 7 digital SLR camera, becoming the first manufacturer to provide major new features to existing owners as a firmware upgrade.

Not yet announced in the UK, the upgrade kit includes significant improvements and new features � including faster autofocus speeds and a real-time histogram display. Many of which were introduced in a new version of the camera (BJP, 20 March), the 7i which arrived earlier this year. 

A spokesman for Minolta in the UK says the upgrade will be available here later this year, with an official announcement of the precise details due soon.

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Microtek's large format number 

Microtek is introducing a large format scanner, capable of reproducing prints sized up to 12x17inch.

The ScanMaker 9800XL features a 1600dpi resolution, three separate connecting interfaces and several optional transparency scanning accessories. The A3 size device samples each scanned line multiple times (two, four or eight times, depending on the frequency selected), averaging out the information in an effort to minimise interference from
signal fluctuations and artifacts.

The scanner comes with an array of software applications. Included in the package is ICC colour profiling software, image editing and browser programs, together with the latest version of SilverFast, Ai 5.5, which includes calibration targets and a negative scanning tool.

The ScanMaker 9800XL is priced around �1500. Call 01327 844880 for further details.

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Cambridge Display Technology in link with Japanese giant 

A Cambridge firm is joining forces with Seiko Epson to form a new company dedicated to a new display technology.

The Japanese electronics giant has begun the joint venture with Cambridge Display Technology (CDT) � following several years of co-operation and the registering of key joint patents � to develop Light Emitting Polymer (LEP) displays. 

The company, Polyink, will have its headquarters in Japan, and will provide technology to display manufacturers, allowing them to develop organic light-emitting diode (OLED) screens.  OLED screens are expected to rival liquid crystal display (LCD) screens over the next decade, having the advantage of being potentially brighter
with a thinner profile. 
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