Konica Minolta
Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta),
a leading provider of advanced imaging and networking technologies, today introduced the bizhub™ C550, marking the launch of the next-generation of its award-winning bizhub product line. The revolutionary new line of network-enabled multi-function peripherals (MFPs) is designed
to offer
a true monochrome copier replacement
to to PRNN results on PRNN ' href='http://www.prnewsnow.com/More/PRNN'> PRNN results on ' href='http://www.prnewsnow.com/More/'> and significant quality and
performance enhancements when replacing color MFPs.
to to PRNN results on PRNN ' href='http://www.prnewsnow.com/More/PRNN'> PRNN results on ' href='http://www.prnewsnow.com/More/'> The next-generation of bizhub MFPs will also provide innovative security features and allows IT administrators
to painlessly administer Digital MFP&#s on their networks.
to to PRNN results on PRNN ' href='http://www.prnewsnow.com/More/PRNN'> PRNN results on ' href='http://www.prnewsnow.com/More/'>
The next-generation bizhub product line represents
a significant leap
forward in MFP functionality, and is positioned
to strengthen Konica Minolta&#s hold on the number one market share position for 21+ pages per minute (ppm) color laser MFP shipments in the
United States*.
to to PRNN results on PRNN ' href='http://www.prnewsnow.com/More/PRNN'> PRNN results on ' href='http://www.prnewsnow.com/More/'> Building upon the success of the original bizhub series, which was first launched in 2004, this next-generation bizhub line - starting with the introduction of the bizhub C550 - will allow network administrators
to view digital MFPs as core components of their IT networks.
Our goal with the our bizhub product line is
to offer customers
a full portfolio of MFP
products that deliver unprecedented digital connectivity, exceptional color print quality, and improved workflow capabilities at breakthrough price points. In doing so we have been able
to achieve the number one spot in multiple color market segments*, said Jun Haraguchi, president and CEO, Konica Minolta
Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. The next-generation bizhub product line represents one of the most anticipated product advancements in recent Konica Minolta history, and allows us
to continue the legacy of innovation in color imaging that will bring color imaging
to the next level.
Rapid Shift
to Color and Digital Networked Solutions
In
calendar year 2006, Konica Minolta recorded more than
30 percent year-over-year growth in the color marketplace, and as such Konica Minolta&#s brand value has steadily increased both in the
United States ' href='http://www.prnewsnow.com/More/United States'>
United States and worldwide.
to to PRNN results on PRNN ' href='http://www.prnewsnow.com/More/PRNN'> PRNN results on ' href='http://www.prnewsnow.com/More/'> Konica Minolta continues
to maintain its leadership position within the market based on having the most popular and diverse lineup of
products with digital connectivity tailored
to the industry, and the No. 1 U.S. market share position in Konica Minolta&#s key color laser MFP segments (Color 21+ ppm)*.
Due
to exceptional price
performance and
a wide range of
products within the next-generation bizhub multi-functional product line, Konica Minolta is leading the end-user transition
to color
products in offices of all sizes.
Next-generation bizhub - Dynamic Advancements
Dynamic
Design - Konica Minolta went against standard convention in designing the next-generation bizhub.
to to PRNN results on PRNN ' href='http://www.prnewsnow.com/More/PRNN'> PRNN results on ' href='http://www.prnewsnow.com/More/'> From the new dramatic design and small footprint
to the full-color LCD panel, the next-generation of bizhub MFPs was designed
to blend in with today&#s
work environment.
Secure Working Environment - Konica Minolta is proud
to announce the industry&#s first Biometric Authentication Unit, in which the vein patterns of
a finger are scanned, encrypted and stored and are used
to distinguish individuals.
to to PRNN results on PRNN ' href='http://www.prnewsnow.com/More/PRNN'> PRNN results on ' href='http://www.prnewsnow.com/More/'> Add this state-of-the-art feature
to Konica Minolta&#s award-winning and standard feature (Hard Drive Overwrite Function with Optional Encryption) and overall system security, Konica Minolta is leading the industry in providing document security protocols
to end-users.
New Twin-beam
Laser Printhead - The bizhub C550, and future next-generation product offerings, save space and energy by leveraging our advanced optical and laser technology.
Excellent Image Quality - Konica Minolta maintains
a competitive edge with its use of industry-leading Simitri® HD (High Definition) Color Polymerized Toner, which sets the benchmark standard of high quality output in this new digital age.
to to PRNN results on PRNN ' href='http://www.prnewsnow.com/More/PRNN'> PRNN results on ' href='http://www.prnewsnow.com/More/'> Simitri HD offers smaller, more consistently uniform particles for superior quality dots and fine lines.
Benefits of IH Fixing - The next generation of bizhub MFPs uses IH (Induction Heating) that enables less energy and heat during start up.
to to PRNN results on PRNN ' href='http://www.prnewsnow.com/More/PRNN'> PRNN results on ' href='http://www.prnewsnow.com/More/'> The end result is
a shorter warm-up time, faster first copy out time, and smaller IH Fixing Unit, which contributes
to the overall decrease in
machine size.
98% PPH (Print Per Hour) Productivity - The next-generation of bizhub was designed for efficient image stabilization, and
to provide significant productivity enhancements
over conventional color MFPs.
Reduced Environmental Impact - The bizhub C550 boasts one of the industry&#s best levels of energy efficiency - almost 65% better than the 21.4 kWh/week needed for certification.
to to PRNN results on PRNN ' href='http://www.prnewsnow.com/More/PRNN'> PRNN results on ' href='http://www.prnewsnow.com/More/'> As
a result, Konica Minolta already meets the new Energy Star standards scheduled
to be implemented later this Spring.
IPv6 Support - The next-generation of bizhub MFPs supports Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6), the next generation Internet communication protocol, which will soon be the global standard due
to its unlimited benefits.
to to PRNN results on PRNN ' href='http://www.prnewsnow.com/More/PRNN'> PRNN results on ' href='http://www.prnewsnow.com/More/'> Unlike its predecessors, the IPv6 protocol supports
a virtually endless supply of unique addresses.
Windows Vista Support - In addition, the next generation bizhub MFPs will be among the first in the industry
to provide
native support for Windows Vista XPS Printing and Scanning, and WSD protocols allowing for better print reproduction and easy device installation.
bizhub C550 - First of Next-Generation bizhub Line
to Market
Combining breakthrough styling with fast color and cost-effective
black and white output, the new bizhub C550 is the first in the next-generation series
to debut. The bizhub C550 provides all-in-one functionality (print, copy, scan, fax) for high-end office workgroups and applications that require 45 pages per minute (ppm) color and 55 ppm
black and white document production.
As the first in
a revolutionary new line of network-enabled MFPs, the bizhub C550 was designed
to be
a true color replacement for monochrome (black and white) devices and incorporates advanced Konica Minolta
technologies and new innovative features that deliver better image quality,
reliability and enhanced productivity.
to to PRNN results on PRNN ' href='http://www.prnewsnow.com/More/PRNN'> PRNN results on ' href='http://www.prnewsnow.com/More/'> Most importantly, the bizhub C550 delivers on the customer&#s need for
a true, secured networked solution for document workflow management.
to to PRNN results on PRNN ' href='http://www.prnewsnow.com/More/PRNN'> PRNN results on ' href='http://www.prnewsnow.com/More/'>
The first thing customers will notice about the bizhub C550 is its striking appearance, with
a new dramatic charcoal gray color scheme and
a Ũ degree design&# that makes it aesthetically pleasing from any angle and allows it
to be centered in
a busy
work environment and not limited
to a printing center, said Kevin P. Kern, vice president, product planning and development, Konica Minolta
Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc.
Kern adds, The design incorporates an &#InfoLine&# feature that makes the status of key device functions visible from across the room so users can
monitor paper levels, for example, without leaving their desk. Much smaller in size than comparable MFPs, the bizhub C550 packs
a powerful combination of quality, speed, reliability, reduced cost of ownership, flexible throughput and finishing, and powerful controller options into
a compact footprint so you can do more in less space.
Pricing and Availability
The bizhub C550 is available through Konica Minolta&#s
North American direct sales, authorized dealer and value-added reseller channels. The manufacturer&#s suggested retail price (MSRP) for the bizhub C550 is $25,000.
About Konica Minolta
Business Solutions U.S.A.
Konica Minolta
Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc., offers
a broad range of multifunctional digital imaging solutions inspired by its bizhub brand of powerful solutions that serve as the central resource for document scanning, in-house printing, copying, faxing and electronic archiving and distribution. From high-quality color and monochrome bizhub systems for workgroups and small offices,
to advanced high-volume bizhub PROTM production printing systems for large corporations and print-for-pay services, Konica Minolta is leading the industry toward integrated, networked hardware/software solutions that are more simple, reliable, and cost-effective. Complementing its bizhub solutions, Konica Minolta also offers desktop laser printers, microform digital imaging systems, wide-format
printers and scanning systems for specialized applications.
Headquartered in Ramsey, New Jersey, Konica Minolta delivers expert professional services and experienced, responsive client support, in addition
to the world-class service provided through its extensive network of direct sales offices, authorized dealers, resellers and distribution partners in the
United States, Canada, Mexico, Central
America and South America. For more information, please visit Konica Minolta at www.kmbs.konicaminolta.us.
Konica Minolta Corporate Contact:
James Norberto
Konica Minolta
Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc.
+1 201.825.4000
jnorberto {at} kmbs.konicaminolta.us
Konica Minolta Media Contact:
Rachel Reed
Lois Paul and Partners
1-781-782-5785
Rachel_reed {at} lpp.com
* - Top U.S. market share position in CY2006 unit shipments for 21+ppm color laser MFPs, according
to IDC&#s Worldwide Quarterly Hardcopy Peripherals Tracker, Q4 2006. Konica Minolta is
a trademark of Konica Minolta Holdings, Inc.
to to PRNN results on PRNN ' href='http://www.prnewsnow.com/More/PRNN'> PRNN results on ' href='http://www.prnewsnow.com/More/'> bizhub and bizhub PRO are trademarks of Konica Minolta
Business Technologies, Inc.
to to PRNN results on PRNN ' href='http://www.prnewsnow.com/More/PRNN'> PRNN results on ' href='http://www.prnewsnow.com/More/'> All other trademarks mentioned in this document are the property of their respective owners.
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