Fujifilm Graphic Systems director Keith Dalton described the machine as "a pure Fujifilm product using the different expertise and technologies within the Fuji empire".

Samba, the inkjet platform developed by Fujifilm Dimatix, uses a full width (720mm) printhead comprising high density, long-life, MEMS-fabricated piezoelectric element arrays capable of jetting four levels of drops in a single pass process.

Fujifilm has integrated Samba into a press codenamed the Jet Press 720 which it claims is capable of resolutions of 1,200dpi and B2 speeds of 2,700 sph.

The press uses Fujifilm-developed water-based inks for printing on a range of coated papers.

Dalton said the Jet Press 720 is aimed at the short-run sheet fed market.

"It's not poaching this market; we're creating new opportunities for print," he said. "It's the start of something new, and a must-see at Drupa."

The Jet Press 720 will start shipping next year with full production coming online by "early 2010".

Dalton also said the press would be keenly priced: "It will be available at a cheaper cost to the user in terms of the cost of print than is currently available to the printer today."

He said the technologies behind the press remained in-house and opportunities for licensing them to third parties would be something for Fujifilm to consider in the future.

The Fujifilm Dimatix printhead uses "printhead on a chip" technology, placing printhead modules end-to-end to create a four colour "Print Bar". Although spot colour is not an option, the system is scaleable up to a B1 format, making possible a B1 digital inkjet, although Dalton was reserved over the company's ambition in this area.

"We currently have no plans for B1; we're putting one foot forward at a time," he said.

The Jet Press 720 and Samba printheads will be on show at this year's Drupa. The 14th Drupa exhibition takes place from 29 May to 11 June, in Düsseldorf, Germany.