High-Volume Player Enters Digital Monochrome Arena

Canon USA, which joined the ranks of high-speed digital printers last fall (see GAM 10/05, p.31) has unveiled its beefier b&w platform: the imageRUNNER 7105 (105 ppm) and the 7095 (95 ppm). The new machines feature fourth-generation dual processors, 1GB RAM and 40GB hard drives with the ability to store up to 20,000 documents. Performance-wise, the devices offer greater maximum monthly volumes from previous models, including a 6 million-impression amorphous silicon drum and a high-yield, 2Kg set-on toner bottle that is said to install cleanly in seconds.

Both printers are Internet-ready with proprietary Multifunctional Embedded Application Platform (MEAP) technology, allowing for document management and communication features with tight integration and device control. In addition to a 10/100 Base TX Ethernet and USB 2.0 interfaces, the printers support true 1200×1200-dpi print resolution with a four-beam laser unit. Both utilize Canon's Fine Character and Edge Technology to enhance the reproduction of fine lines for better image quality.

“Each new model can be configured with a full range of advanced document finishing options to bring professional publishing capabilities,” says Sam Yoshida, GM of Canon's corporate systems div. “[These] capabilities once were only found in bindery houses.”

Canon says the new printers hold their own with the likes of other high-speed monochrome printers. The 7105 and 7095 are aimed at print-only environments producing large monthly volumes. Both printers reduce blank pages with a multi-feed detection sensor and feature a high-capacity stacker, available Q2, that handles up to 6,000 sheets through two sources for long periods of unattended operation. Each also includes a removable dolly. Also available Q2 for both models is an inline perfect binder.

The folding unit folds 11×17´´ pages into document sets with a finished size of 8½×11´´. The finishers include the necessary collating, stapling and saddlestitching, stacking up to 5,000 sheets. Especially handy is the document insertion unit for either finisher to feed booklet covers into job streams, and an optional puncher supports a variety of inline binding selections with a high degree of registration accuracy.

The main unit has a 10.4´´ color LCD (7.8´´ on the 7095). Both printers are a bit more rugged with reinforced steel struts, and their components have been tweaked for added stability in busy production settings.

Suggested retail price for the imageRUNNER 7105 and 7095, now available through authorized Canon dealers and Canon Business Solutions locations, is $50,000 and $39,000, respectively. www.imagerunner.com