Hewlett-Packard is set to stir up the proofing market with its new family of two-page proofers.


The three products, the DesignJet 10, 20 and 50 are intended to meet proofing needs from concept to contract for users ranging from one-man-band designers through to printers and repro houses using the same basic print engine and colour management.


Ive been dreaming of HP bringing out a smaller format product, said Robin East, managing director of RES Distribution, one of HPs UK distributors. The potential market for these products in several sectors is immense.


The entry level DesignJet 10 costs 725 including software PostScript RIP. The pre-press version driven by a Heidelberg developed RIP based-on Delta Direct costs 2,310, significantly less than other desktop proofer/RIP combinations.

All machines are based on a 1,200x2,400dpi six-colour ink-jet engine, which includes a closed loop colour calibration system.


One of the key markets for these proofers will be the remote proofing market. HP will announce further details of remote proofing solutions based on the machines at the start of next year.


The company has clearly set out to dominate the A3+ printer market, said East.


HP has also introduced a new version of its high-speed 36in wide large-format ink-jet printer the DesignJet 1000, which is popular for imposition proofing. The new model includes a multi-roll feeder allowing up to three rolls of media to be online at a time with automatic switching between rolls.

Contact: RES Distribution 0118 989 9490.