Cambridge, UK, 18 December 2024: Global Graphics Software, a Hybrid Software company and developer of smart software components for print OEMs, announces the extension of its strategic partnership with Mimaki Engineering, a leading Japanese manufacturer of wide-format inkjet printers and cutting systems. The renewed agreement will see Mimaki continue to license Global Graphics’ Harlequin Core™ technology for its latest RasterLink RIP software, which drives its extensive range of wide-format, roll-to-roll and flatbed industrial inkjet printers.

Daisuke Takai, Deputy General Manager – Software Design Department, Mimaki Engineering, highlights the value of Harlequin Core to their operations: “We chose Harlequin for RasterLink7 to boost the performance and versatility of our printers, and it has delivered impressive results. We have experienced up to 25% faster PDF processing times and enhanced functionality when handling variable data. Additionally, Harlequin Core has improved our reproduction of complex design elements, like transparency.”

Harlequin Core is widely acknowledged as the fastest Raster Image Processor (RIP) on the market. It converts a page description language, for example PDF, into a format that can be interpreted by a printing device, such as an inkjet printhead, toner marking engine or laser platesetter. Its speed and precision make it the preferred RIP technology for many digital press solutions, consistently delivering output far exceeding the rated speeds of today’s most advanced printing devices. Additional capabilities include full support for the latest platforms, latest PDF specifications and extended color gamut printing.

Yoshiyuki Hagiwara, Representative Director, Global Graphics KK in Japan, comments: “We are delighted to extend our long-standing collaboration with Mimaki. This renewed agreement highlights the exceptional performance and reliability of Harlequin Core. Since its introduction in 1986, Harlequin has earned a strong reputation in the market as a fast, dependable RIP solution, trusted by leading press manufacturers. Its flexibility and extensive customization options enable our customers to deliver tailored solutions that drive their success.”

Mimaki Engineering is the third major Japanese printer manufacturer in the wide-format and industrial print sector to renew its Harlequin Core license in 2024, further solidifying its market-leading position. Harlequin’s independence from third-party intellectual property, combined with its status as a vendor-neutral technology developed by an independent, publicly traded company, makes it a valuable asset for these manufacturers. This allows Harlequin to maintain its own roadmap, free from influence or investment by printer manufacturers.

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About Global Graphics Software
Global Graphics Software (www.globalgraphics.com) is a leading developer of smart software components for print OEMs and independent software vendors. Technologies include SmartDFE™, Harlequin Core™, ScreenPro™, PrintFlat™ and Mako™. The roots of the company go back to 1986 and to the iconic university town of Cambridge, and today the majority of the R&D team is still based near here. Customers include HP, Canon, Durst, Mark Andy, Roland, Kodak and Agfa. Global Graphics Software owns 100% of its Intellectual Property and is independent of a printer manufacturer. Global Graphics Software is a subsidiary of Hybrid Software Group PLC (Euronext: HYSG).

About MIMAKI ENGINEERING
Mimaki is a global industry leader of wide-format inkjet printers, cutting plotters, 3D inkjet printers, software, hardware and associated consumable items, such as inks and cutting blades. The company engineers and manufactures a complete range of products that attain the total workflow solution for sign/graphics, textile/apparel and industrial printing professionals. Mimaki excels in offering superior quality and reliable products, based upon its aqueous solvent and UV curable inkjet technology. As an innovator and strategic partner, Mimaki is committed to always providing “something new, something different” in the marketplace. Visit website at https://mimaki.com/