With a printing speed of between 90-150 A4ppm, Riso has billed the machine as cost effective and the world's fastest cut-sheet inkjet printer, pitching it at the gap between high-end production colour devices and multi-function office-type printers.
 
UK product manager Mike Murphy said units were already being field-tested in the UK. "We've had models out at selected customers since late last year and feedback has been extremely positive."

Murphy described the ComColor as "an evolution" of the hugely-popular HC range that PrintWeek named as one of the surprise stars of Drupa 2004.

Although five models are available, the focus in the UK will be on the ComColor 3010 (90 A4ppm), 7050 (120ppm) and top-of-the-range 9050 (150ppm). They can handle a maximum sheet size of 340x550mm.

The top speed of up to 150ppm applies to both simplex and duplex printing, and it has a monthly duty cycle of 500,000. Other advances include handling heavier weight stocks of up to 210gsm.

The ballpark cost per full-colour A4 print is just under 2p, although Murphy stated "it could be lower than that, depending upon volume".

Riso is also promoting its environmental advantages over toner-based printers due to the cold fusion process and absence of emissions. It uses a fixed array of piezo inkjet heads.

UK pricing for the range is currently being decided. In the US, the group launched the ComColor 9050 with a list price of $45,995 (circa £30,000).