SmartStream for HP Indigo digital presses

Digital Front End workflow leads productivity

HP SmartStream Labels and Packaging Print Servers provide printers and converters with the most advanced tools in the industry for streamlining pre-press processes. The suite of HP SmartStream Labels and Packaging Print Servers has integrated solutions for enhanced performance and extended capabilities, and includes:

• HP SmartStream IN050 Labels and Packaging Print server, Powered by Esko, for HP Indigo WS4000 Series Digital Presses
• HP SmartStream IN100 Labels and Packaging Print server, Powered by Esko, for HP Indigo WS6000 Series Digital Presses

The servers support ICC profiles, integral PDF, step and repeat, advanced PANTONE® color conversion tables, and automated workflow through hot folders and job tickets. The solutions enable future scalability to accommodate color workflow tools and connectivity for Esko’s centralized workflow system. In addition, the HP SmartStream Labels and Packaging servers feature a capability to connect directly with any MIS system from the DFE via JDF protocol and consequently provide better job tracking, cost estimation, and faster turnaround.

HP SmartStream Labels and Packaging Color Kit, Powered by Esko, is an integrated solution that quickly creates profiles that match PANTONE and spot colors, and specific customer brand requirements with very little waste. This enables printers to produce more short runs and enhance overall productivity.

HP SmartStream Labels and Packaging VDP Tools, Powered by Esko, is a perfect complement to the HP Indigo labels and packaging press portfolio. It can be used to print unique elements including singular numbers, text, barcodes, or images. The advanced VDP tools support job creation with simple or complex variable elements in the Adobe® Illustrator® environment.

Optimized for labels and packaging design needs, VDP tools include plug-ins for VDP file creation, integrated barcode generation, and an advanced step and repeat tool. The application is also offered with optional scalable RIPs, to meet any VDP performance requirements.

HP SmartStream Designer is an entry-level offering for VDP authoring. It’s a plug-in for Adobe® InDesign® that enables the addition of personalized elements, images, text, and colors to any job. In addition to VDP definition, the application includes graphic design and simple imposition. The user interface is easy to learn and to use, supporting flexible database manipulations.

Pre-press automation solution

Esko’s Automation Engine integrates and automates all design and prepress activities in one workflow for label converters and packaging printers, providing a unified hybrid workflow for both digital and analog printing devices. This client-server software provides enhanced data management, reduces operator intervention, and automates tasks and communications. The Automation Engine is an enterprise-ready workflow that enables unparalleled automation with extensive MIS integration capabilities and excellent scalability.

The HP SmartStream IN100 Labels and Packaging Print Server, Powered by Esko, has a proprietary and bi-directional point-to-point connection with Esko’s Automation Engine. The Automation Engine contains a built-in job ticket called “Digital Press” that enables the assignment of all job parameters for use by the print server. The job ticket automation allows jobs to run automatically directly from the point of order approval on the MIS, through the Automation Engine and the print server, to the press.

Streamlined design and creation tools

HP Indigo supports multiple solutions for the design stages. Esko’s plug-in for Adobe® Illustrator®, for interactive 3D packaging design, builds realistic structural models of standard flexible packaging and folding cartons in a matter of minutes. Studio reduces the need for costly mock-ups and design errors are spotted faster.

Visualizer by Esko visualizes finishing effects such as metallic and fluorescent inks, foils, varnishes, embossing, and reflections. Visualizer dramatically decreases the need for printed mock-ups, saves costs, and shortens time to market.