Lexmark is first to market with 4800dpi resolution, confirming its inkjet technology leadership

With its 2002 Z-line of inkjet printers introduced today, Lexmark International SA extends its legacy of technology leadership, once again setting a precedent in print resolution with two industry firsts: 3600 x 1200 dots per inch (dpi) resolution and 4800 x 1200dpi resolution on multiple paper types.

With products that will begin shipping next month, the 2002 Z-line, which includes the Lexmark Z65, Z55, Z45, Z35 and Z25 Color Jetprinters, offers fast print speeds and new features that make it easier than ever for small-office and home users to print.

"These products establish a number of industry firsts, including 4800dpi inkjet print resolution - a groundbreaking technology we are proud to deliver to our customers today,`` said Mark Hiller, MD Lexmark International SA.

"As the Internet expands the volume of accessible digital information, there is a growing need for printers like ours, that enable greater productivity and offer consumers the best possible inkjet printing experience with rich graphic capabilities that are fast and easy to use."

The flagship Lexmark Z65 offers a host of innovative features enabling it to meet the demanding needs of small office/home office (SOHO) users and high-end consumers. Dual paper trays make it simple to print on a variety of media, such as glossy photo paper and transparencies. Lexmark`s PrecisionSense technology automatically determines the type of stock in the front paper tray and adjusts the printer driver to optimise output. In addition, the Lexmark Z65 boasts best-in-class print speeds of up to 15 pages per minute (ppm) in colour, and up to 21ppm in black - making it ideal for high-volume users.

In black and colour, the Lexmark Z65 touts 4800dpi resolution, while the Lexmark Z55 is capable of 3600dpi resolution. These inkjets also feature a three-picoliter microfine colour drop size, allowing for better colour transitions and more detailed textures. Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the superb detail and vivid colour, while SOHO users will benefit from eye-popping colour graphics and laser-sharp text output.

Lexmark continues to beat the competition to market with precedent-setting features. Today`s announcement of new resolution standards includes two products with previously unavailable quality (4800dpi for the Lexmark Z65 and 3600dpi for the Lexmark Z55) that can be produced on all media types, including plain paper. This is in contrast to the rest of the market where only one competitor has announced plans to match Lexmark`s 4800dpi, but only on photopaper with products that are not expected until later this year.

Available across the 2002 Z-line, Lexmark`s signature features offer simplicity and efficiency.

* Lexmark Solution Centre: Helps ensure customers have a more enjoyable, hassle-free printing experience with easier installation, helpful "how to print`` wizards, improved trouble-shooting and special job finishing options.

* Accu-Feed Paper Handling: Virtually eliminates jams, enabling consumers to choose from a wide range of print media up to 270 gm stock, including envelopes, transparencies, card stock, labels and iron-on transfers.

* Regional Color Tables: Colour preferences vary by geography, Lexmark developed colour tables that automatically install by region, delivering output that reflects cultural preferences. The 2002 Lexmark Z-line of Color Jetprinters

Ideal for both SOHO customers and those interested in photo printing, the Lexmark Z65 can generate 4800 x 1200dpi resolution in black and colour on photo paper, inkjet paper and transparencies as well as 4800 x 600dpi on plain paper. Best-in-class print speeds of up to 21ppm in black and up to 15ppm in colour make it a welcome addition to the busiest environment. Heavy users will enjoy dual paper trays for faster media transition, and automatic cartridge alignment that ensures optimal print output without manual adjustment. The Z65 is Windows and Mac compatible and offers USB connectivity. Also available, the Lexmark Z65n features an integrated Ethernet network adapter that enables connection to any Ethernet network and allows multiple users to print, even when the host computer is turned off.

The Lexmark Z55 offers advanced home users 3600 x 1200dpi in black and colour on photo paper, inkjet paper, and transparencies in addition to 3600 X 600dpi on plain paper. PrecisionSense technology automatically determines the media being fed through and adjusts the printer driver for optimal output. The Z55 also boasts a three-picoliter microfine colour drop size and best-in-class print speeds of up to 17ppm in black and up to 13ppm in colour. It also features automatic cartridge alignment and one-click driver installation. To fit all work styles and platforms, the Z55 offers USB and parallel connectivity as well as Windows, Mac and Linux compatibility.

For home users looking for an easy-to-use, top-performing inkjet, the Lexmark Z45 fits the bill. The Z45 has best-in-class print speeds of up to 15ppm in black and up to 9ppm in colour and 2400 x 1200dpi in black and colour on all paper types. The Windows and Mac compatible Z45 supports USB connectivity and features automatic cartridge alignment and one-click driver installation for superior ease-of-use.

The Lexmark Z35 is engineered for home users seeking an efficient inkjet that handles everything from printing emails to digital photos. The Z35 can achieve a maximum 2400 x 1200dpi resolution and delivers best-in-class prints speeds of up to 11ppm in black and up to 6ppm in colour. The Z35 is compatible with Windows, Mac and Linux platforms and comes with USB connectivity.

The Lexmark Z25 is designed for the consumer who wants versatility at a value price. The Z25 is dual-head printing system, with a moderate use colour and black cartridge included in the box. The Z25 offers best-in-class print speeds of up to 9ppm in black and up to 6ppm in colour. Capable of photo quality printing, the Z25 features 1200 x 1200dpi resolution in black and colour on all paper types, is compatible with Windows, Mac and Linux platforms, and offers USB connectivity.

For further information, please contact Mark Hiller or the relevant product manager at telephone (011) 329 0999; fax (011) 792 7449; e-mail mark.hiller@lexmark.co.za.