Troika Systems has launched a lower-priced double-sided imposition proofer to target new users that do not require the automation of its SpinJet 1000.

VersoProof is a semi-automatic system that requires the user to feed the sheet back into the machine to print the second side of the job.

"What we found with the SpinJet is that people think its a great system, but smaller firms cant afford it," said Troika Systems managing director Phil Hall. "The SpinJet has sold almost exclusively to B1 printers, theres a huge market for B2 printers and design studios."

Troika has found that many customers are using the SpinJet to produce one-off dummies of complete jobs and sell them on as a new service.

"Its a new opportunity," said Hall. "The reality is there hasnt been a reliable way to create a complete dummy."

Like the SpinJet, the VersoProof is based on a HP DesignJet 1050 wide-format printer. It has a guaranteed front-to-back registration of 1mm, although Hall claims that in tests he is yet to see a proof out by more than 0.5mm.

The software interface accepts ripped files from most systems. "Im not aware of a RIP it doesnt connect to," said Hall.

A complete system will cost 13,220 including printer, PC, installation and a days training. Customers with an HP 1050 can buy the rest of the system for 7,500.

In 2002, Troika Systems plans to introduce a consumables-based finance package. If customers take on a minimum of four rolls of the TR100 ink-jet double-sided proofing paper for 36 months, it will supply the hardware for free.

Contact: 01793 766355 www.troika-systems.co.uk.

Story by Barney Cox