Originally shown at Drupa 2000, when several initial orders were taken, the firm is promising a working model at next years show.

When it was first shown it was known as the XB2 but has now been renamed as the HP Indigo Press b7000.

We are now planning to show the HP Indigo Press b7000 as a working model at Drupa 2004, said marketing manager Eric Bredin. Pricing has not been determined.

It was originally claimed it would be shipped by 2002.

Among printers who have ordered the machine is London-based digital specialist 1st Byte, which provisionally ordered two at Drupa 2000. The firm subsequently installed a Xeikon DCP 500 D to provide a B2 capability when the Indigo wasnt available.

I was told it was unlikely it would be seen at Drupa as a working machine, said 1st Byte managing director Lawrence Dalton. I think the market is ready for a good B2 digital press.

He welcomed the news that HP Indigo had decided to show the machine.
1st Byte is currently upgrading its Xeikon to the latest software, toners and fitting the OmniVac.

Im not unhappy with the Xeikon, but ideally Id much rather have an Indigo, said Dalton.

He cited the need for spot colours and handling heavier stocks than 270gsm as his reasons for wanting the B2 Indigo, and said he had plenty of work that needed a B2 sheet size.

At Ipex 2002 the machine was shown as a static display and the firm said it would be taking orders at Drupa 2004.

Story by Barney Cox