As the digital camera user base grows, so does the demand for digital imaging services. Users want a hard-copy photograph from their digital camera, make copies of existing pictures, without negatives, and archive film images on CD.
This market growth presents retailers with an opportunity to develop new revenue streams from the digital photofinishing business. Offering scalable, flexible solutions for the widest range of retail photo environments, Sony Business SA has introduced a digital photofinishing system that combines state-of-the-art imaging and digital processing technology.
The UPA-PC100 Digital Photofinishing System Controller forms the core of the all-in-one package system. It features a touch-sensitive LCD control panel and various media input options. The system, which uses a single cable connection to link to other system components, fits easily on limited counter space or can be rack-mounted in a cabinet.
When combined with the Sony UP-DR100 high-speed dye sublimation roll printer, the result is a comprehensive digital photo printing service.
According to Sony Business SA, product manager, Will Klopper, photo-quality prints can be produced quickly and easily using a variety of popular media. "It is also possible to add other components, such as a flatbed scanner and a large format printer to further increase the range of services on offer from a single source."
A standard 10 x 15cm image takes approximately 24 seconds to print. In addition, Sony digital photography paper offers superior image stability, guarding against the effects of light, heat and humidity.
"By combining the core system with the Sony UY-S90 high-speed film scanner and index printer, users create a versatile film digitising service. With this system, films can be digitised quickly and saved on CD with image viewing software," he explains.
A media conversion service is another option, letting you archive images stored in a variety of digital media on a CD.
Modular components allow the system to be tailored to retailer needs and space requirements. Also, there is no need for the detailed technical knowledge and maintenance, both of which are essential with chemical-based systems.
Says Klopper: "Economical and versatile, Sony Digital Photofinishing Systems provide retailers with a valuable revenue-generating tool and offer a variety of customer focused digital imaging services."
Various media inputs
The UPA-PC100 is compatible with a wide range of media, including Sony Memory Stick, SmartMedia, CompactFlash, compact disc and floppy disk.
Easy-to-use operation
Adoption of touch-screen technology and easy to follow control interfaces make efficient system operation 'child's play'. All you do is to select the input media icon on the control screen, then various system options are displayed on an intuitive pop-up screen.
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Sony Business SA offers an extensive range of visual communications technology solutions that support the daily communication activities of leading business people across Africa. These include service and support packages which incorporate leading-edge technology from the latest in visual or corporate communications to broadcast, video conferencing, surveillance, medical and digital imaging and presentations.
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