Introduction

Canon UK, leader in digital imaging technology, has today announced that it has added two new black and white multi functional printers (MFP?s) to its iR product portfolio, the iR 5570 and iR 6570. The devices now complete the Canon office range, which, at less than 12 months old, is one of the youngest family of products on the market, giving businesses the widest possible range of choices to suit different requirements, both in black and white and colour. The iR 5570 and iR 6570 have Canon?s unique Java-based MEAP platform and address various areas of business communication by offering full print, copy, scan and send capabilities.
Security
With output speeds of 55ppm and 65ppm respectively and a faster warm-up time of 30 seconds, the devices are well-suited to organisations with high volume print requirements. With more and more businesses becoming increasingly concerned with security in the workplace - research has shown that 95 percent out of 4,000 IT Managers highlighted security as a major concern - the iR 5570 and the iR 6570 have a range of secure printing options to address these issues.
Password proteced
To minimise the risk of unauthorised access to confidential information or data, the hard disk can be encrypted and deleted on a pre-scheduled basis. In addition, the Department ID management facility means that employees can be given password-protected access to the device, while the Secure Print and Mailbox functions ensure that once sent to print only the originator can print out confidential documents. Encrypted, password-protected PDFs, which have been created from scanned documents, also prevent unauthorised viewing, therefore greatly reducing the risk of information leaks. And, with Searchable PDF (OCR) Mode users can scan and create searchable files to locate information quickly.
Black and white multi functional printer
Glen Mason, Office Solutions Marketing Manager, Canon UK, says: ?Black and white multi functional printers continue to dominate the market and although this area is constantly evolving, monochrome printing remains the main requirement in most organisations today. As a result, we are constantly customising our range of office devices, to make usage easier, ensure security requirements are addressed and to provide the best solution for businesses workflow needs.?
Remote Operator?s Software
As well as enhanced security features, the iR 5570 / 6570 have been designed with disabled access in mind to be more user-friendly and suited to wide-ranging and differing requirements, as well as adapting to Government recommendations. For the visually impaired there is a voice guidance facility that confirms the choices made by the individual on the control panel. The Remote Operator?s Software means that physically disabled employees can operate the printer directly from the desktop and when scanning, the ADF disability handle provides easier access for wheelchair-bound users.
Features
Other features of the iR 5570/6570 include Web Access, which allows users to access the Internet, via the user interface, directly at the MFP. Individuals can now print pages, as well as PDF?s, directly from websites the same way as accessing the Internet on a PC. This is ideal for users that need information on the move or where there is no access to the Internet, such as public sector organisations, including libraries, schools and Universities. For large organisations, Web Access also allows employees to access the company intranet straight from the device, which means frequently accessed documents like holiday forms, contracts and manuals can be printed immediately at the MFP.
Innovation
Continued Mason: ?We are continuing to break ground and innovate with our products. The fact that we have the youngest portfolio on the market is testament to this. Not only that but we currently hold the number one market position in the Western European black and white sector, which is an endorsement of the fact that it is not just Canon that believes in their products but it is also European businesses.?
RoHS directive
The iR 5570 and iR 6570 also comply with the RoHS directive from the European Union, which restricts the use of hazardous chemicals. Effective from July 2006, manufacturers have to ensure their products, and associated components, comply. Canon is ensuring preparedness by releasing products that are already in-line with the directive and using recycled plastics when manufacturing printers. Web Access and disability support are also backward compatible with Canon?s existing iR xx70 product range. The iR 5570 and iR 6570 will be available across Europe during May 2005.