Microtek Press Release 13/02/04

Microtek Announces XPan Support for ArtixScan 120tf Multiformat Film Scanner

High-resolution film scanner is now enhanced with XPan support of 35mm x 78mm panoramic film

Las Vegas, NV (February 13, 2004) - Microtek, a leader in digital imaging for over 20 years, announced here at PMA today expanded 35mm panoramic film support for the ArtixScan 120tf, its awardwinning multiple-format film scanner.

With the newly added XPan support, the ArtixScan 120tf is now able to accommodate scanning of 35mm x 78mm panoramic film, in addition to supporting 35mm slides, 35mm filmstrips, and four sizes of medium-format film, including 6x4.5, 6x6, 6x7, and 6x9. Three film holders that can accommodate all of the above-mentioned film types are included with the scanner: a four-frame 35mm slide holder; a six-frame 35mm filmstrip holder that also accommodates two strips of the newly supported 35mm panoramic film; and a holder for the medium-format film.

Karl-Heinz Zahorsky, president and CEO of LaserSoft Imaging AG, says: “The ArtixScan 120tf costs considerably less than the Imacon scanners yet delivers the same professional image quality.” Winner of the Editors’ Choice from American Photo magazine, the 120tf delivers exceptional quality and productivity features, including a Kodak 10,000-element CCD for an optical resolution of 4000 dpi; 42-bit color with highbit raw data file output; 4.2 maximum optical density to capture exceptional shadow and highlight details; and multiple sampling technology that lets users sample scanned lines in frequencies of 2, 4, 8 or 16 to minimize
signal fluctuation and reduce image noise.

The ArtixScan 120tf also boasts of two exclusive technologies. Microtek’s patented Motion Correction Control Technology automatically aligns the movement of the scanning module during each scan for precisely registered mechanical steps. This unique technology ensures that intricate image detail is captured with superior accuracy over the life of the scanner. In addition, the 120tf’s exclusive Auto Focus/Auto Advance Carriage system allows the scanner to intelligently and automatically adjust the slide holder for image clarity and focus.

For enhanced productivity, the ArtixScan 120tf offers a number of smart features: up to 120 negative film profiles for fast optimization; batch scanning, RGB and CMYK softproof, real-time image manipulation such as gradation, global and selective color correction in LCH and CMYK modes, and ?hot-swappable? film holders that a user can change without powering down the scanner. The ArtixScan 120tf also automatically recognizes the type of holder that is being used, whether for 35mm slide, 35mm filmstrip, or 120 film size.

To complement the scanner?s advanced hardware technologies, Microtek includes world-class software such as SilverFast? Ai 6 with HDR by LaserSoft Imaging. SilverFast HDR includes SF SRD? dust and scratch removal, GANE? grain and noise reduction, and NegaFix? for real-time negative film optimization. Also included is Microtek?s scanner controller software, ScanWizard? Pro TX for Mac and PC. ScanWizard Pro TX provides imaging professionals with comprehensive control over the look and quality of their images.

The ArtixScan 120tf also includes Genuine Fractals by LizardTech for resolution-on-demand. Genuine Fractals 2.5 allows a user to encode a file for even higher resolution output, manipulate a small manageable file size and transmit images quickly in real time. Combined with the ArtixScan120tf?s high optical resolution and Genuine Fractals 2.5, an image from a 35mm slide can easily produce quality output for large-format printing of posters, signs and displays.

To complete the package the scanner ships with a FireWire card (PC) and cable, SCSI cable. Also, it is the only medium-format film scanner to include a 6 x 6 IT8 calibration target for accurate color calibration.

The 120tf is compatible with Windows XP, 2000, and 98SE, as well as with Macintosh OS 9.x through OSX. It also offers dual IEEE 1394 FireWire and SCSI-2 interfaces for speed and versatility.

The ArtixScan 120tf has an SRP of $1,999.99. It is now available through Microtek?s distributor network including Ingram Micro, Tech Data, Wynit and at resellers such as B&H Photo, Calumet, Adorama, Keeble and Shuchat Photography, E.P. Levine, VARs and integrators, mail order catalogs and online stores.

About Microtek
Microtek International is a global leader in designing and manufacturing innovative, affordable desktop digital imaging products. Known for its first-to-market scanning technology, Microtek continues to provide a wide range of desktop imaging solutions to users ranging from the mass market, to high-end professional desktop publishers, printers and pre-press service providers. Founded in 1980 and headquartered in Carson, California, Microtek Lab, Inc. is a U.S. subsidiary of Microtek International, Inc. based in Hsinchu, Taiwan. The company has a strong global presence with major operations and distribution channels in 53 countries around the world. Microtek can be found on the Web at www.microtek.com.