It is moving away from the continuous flow ink-jet (CFIJ) technology used in previous Digital Cromalins and will cease production of the AQ, currently its flagship product, before the end of the year.

DoD technology had to earn its stripes against the AQ. We spent 2003 ironing out the wrinkles and now were there, said DuPont UK segment manager, publishing, Jim Walker.

The biggest new feature on the b3 is automatic calibration using a built-in GretagMacbeth EyeOne spectrophotometer to improve consistency and reduce operator intervention.

Automatic calibration will also be fitted to new b2s from next month. DuPont is working to make both machines compatible with its remote proofing software, iCertification, for Drupa.

DuPont expects the b3 will help it expand into creative markets due to its lower cost and simpler operation.

Price will be between 12,000-15,000 for the machine with a cost of 3-3.50 per proof.

Story by Barney Cox