Version 2.0 adds features to improve automation and ensure reliable cross-platform transfer of jobs between different computer operating systems.

It has a job-ticketing function, which allows automation and uses JDF to allow job details such as duplexing, paper type and finishing to be selected without pre-determining what machine is going to print the job.

"This initiative has driven the completion of standardisation in digital print document structure through PPML and can now control information by linkage to JDF," said CIP4 chief executive Martin Bailey.

PODi claims that PPML 2.0 solves the problem of transferring jobs from one computing environment to another. This is done by ensuring that character sets, file name lengths and directory structures are compatible with all major operating systems.

"PPML 2.0 defines the first ever guidelines for reliable file transfer in the graphic arts," said leader of PODi standards activities Dave deBronkart.

Other features include the use of checksums tools to ensure the right individual elements of a job are used.

Adobe, Creo, EFI, Hewlett-Packard, NexPress and Xerox have all backed the new version of PPML.

"EFI is dedicated to furthering new growth opportunities in the personalised printing market using PPML," said EFI vice president of engineering Ghilad Dziesietnik. "EFI has consistently found significant productivity and efficiency advantages in PPML."

Story by Barney Cox