Lexmark leadership in breakthrough performance, high-value inkjets continues with 2001 Z-line

Lexmark International SA today announced that as part of Lexmark`s long-term commitment to providing value-packed printing solutions designed with customers` needs in mind, it has introduced the colour-infused 2001 Z-line of inkjet printers.

Sporting a fresh new look, Lexmark`s new inkjets offer industry-leading resolution and best-in-class print speeds across all price points, bringing consumers unparalleled print quality and value.

With the 2001 Z-line, which includes the Z33, Z43 and Z53Color Jetprinters, Lexmark again delivers high-end print technology at consumer-friendly price points and redefines the entry-level category it pioneered in 1997. For example, the newest Z-line boasts affordable printers with 2400 x 1200 dots per inch (dpi) resolution and 7 picoliter microfine colour drops for brilliant photo quality.

Lexmark`s signature features, available on all models, offer users ultimate ease-of-use. These signature features include one-click driver installation, quick open-and-load cartridge installation and Accu-Feed paper handling capability.

"Lexmark recognises the importance of quality and affordability when choosing a new printer for the home or office," said Mark Hiller, Managing Director of Lexmark International SA. "The 2001 Z-line offers an ideal balance of best-in-class features, functionality and ease-of-use - all at price points that fit within the budget of any customer."

With the 2001 Z-line, which includes solutions for Windows, Mac and Linux users, Lexmark is offering consumers choice throughout the entire ownership experience.

* Regional colour tables: Extensive Lexmark research indicates that colour preferences vary by geography. To offer each customer the ideal printing experience, Lexmark has developed different colour tables, which automatically install by region, delivering output that reflects the preferences of a culture.
* Resolution: Setting the standard by offering high resolution across its entire line, Lexmark delivers quality to customers regardless of the level of printer they choose to purchase, delivering brilliant photo quality prints and laser sharp text.
* Paper handling: The Accu-Feed paper handling system prints virtually jam-free, enabling consumers to choose from a wide range of print media weighing up to 270 grams, including envelopes, transparencies, card stock, labels and iron-on transfers.
* Peer-to-peer networking: Lexmark further addresses consumers` needs for flexibility with peer-to-peer networking, great for small businesses or multiple PC households. This feature allows users with a network to send a print job to a printer in an office down the hall or to another room in the house.

The 2001 Z-line of Color Jetprinters

Suited for the small office/home office (SOHO) user, the Z53 features best in class print speeds of 16 pages per minutes (ppm) in black and 8ppm in colour. The Z53 also offers USB and parallel connectivity and Windows, Mac and Linux compatibility to accommodate all work styles. In addition, its enhanced peer-to-peer networking capability allows users to check ink levels and print status from multiple PCs. The Z53`s 2400 x 1200dpi resolution generates crisp text and vivid graphics on all paper types at speeds that meet the rigorous needs of business professionals.

The Z43 is engineered for home users with a diverse range of printing needs. The Z43 can achieve a maximum 2400 x 1200dpi resolution and delivers up to 12ppm in black and 6ppm in colour. The Z43 offers Windows and Mac compatibility as well as USB and parallel support.

Designed home users, the Z33 boasts a maximum resolution of 2400 x 1200dpi in black and colour on all paper types. It can produce print speeds of 9ppm in black and 5ppm in colour, supports USB connectivity and is compatible with Windows, Mac and Linux systems - addressing the platform needs of virtually all customers.

Consumer-friendly features of the Z33 model also include new ink chemistry that delivers crisper, denser black ink that resists smears and dries faster. These space-saving, progressively designed models also boast a new, user-friendly graphics interface system, including the "Lexmark Solution Center," that makes installing and using the printer easier than ever.

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