Microtek used Print UK to announce its entry into the high-end flatbed scanner market with the launch of the ArtixScan 6000XY.


"Its the flagship beginning of our high-end scanner range," said Microtek product manager Jim Redman.


The ArtixScan 6000XY is Microteks first XY flatbed; it is based on the same hardware used in CreoScitexs EverSmart and uses a version of Purup-Eskofots ColorQuartet scanning software. The optical resolution is 2,000x6,000dpi over the full bed area of 305x432mm. Output is rated at 15 scans per hour.


The 6000XY is currently only SCSI-2, but there are plans for a FireWire version. Price is estimated to be around the 8,000 mark.


The specification and price are very similar to CreoScitexs EverSmart Jazz. Microtek refused to comment on whether it is the OEM for the Jazz, as senior industry sources have revealed to PrintWeek. The Taiwanese company has been an OEM manufacturer of flatbed scanners for Agfa for several years.


Microteks ScanMaker range, retailing in the 60-600 bracket, has been strong in the low-end scanner sector for many years.


"Were very pleased to be getting into the top end of the scanner market with the ArtixScan 6000XY. This is the start of something big," said Redman.


Story by Karen Charlesworth