FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 22, 2005

The Introduction of the CE3000Mk2 Brings Graphtec Quality and Reliability Within Everyone’s Reach

Western Graphtec, Inc., a leading manufacturer of precision imaging products for signage, graphics and computer-aided design industries, announces the introduction of the new CE3000Mk2 Series engineering-class cutting plotters. The CE3000Mk2 is Graphtec’s leading price/performance cutter, providing an ideal backup solution for large operations or as the primary cutting system for start-up sign/graphics shops which require a strong return on their investment. The CE3000Mk2 is available in 2 model sizes ­CE3000Mk2-60 (24”), and CE3000Mk2-120 (48”) ­ the new series incorporates advanced features that have only been available with higher-end cutting plotters in the past. The CE3000Mk2 Series’ come with a standard 2 year service warranty. For a limited time, Graphtec is also offering a free gift with purchase, which includes a choice of a free blade kit, media basket, or 1 year extended service warranty (totaling 3 years). Customers may visit www.graphtecusa.com for further details. Offer exclusive to residents of the U.S.A. and Canada.

As is found in Graphtec’s FC-series professional-level cutting plotters, the Registration Mark Sensor System is now a standard feature of the new CE3000Mk2 series. The registration mark sensor detects the registration marks printed along digitally produced images to automatically align pre-printed images - even compensating for material expansion/contraction. Such intelligent features assure the user of unsurpassed accuracy and reliable operation for the most intricate die/contour cutting applications.

The CE3000Mk2 series reaches maximum cutting speeds of 24 ips (-60) and 39 ips (-120), with a maximum cutting force of 300g (-60) and 450g (-120). Noteworthy innovations include an easy-to-use menu navigation system. Eight user-settings memory facilitates instantaneous recall of pre-programmed job-specific plotter setups. Tangential Control, enables unsurpassed cutting quality for processing highly intricate designs on a variety of material. The Graphtec proprietary SmartFeed™ auto material pre-feed function makes the CE3000Mk2 series ideal for long-length or unattended repeat cutting jobs. A 2MB buffer and Tri-port connectivity (USB, Parallel, and Serial) make the series compatible with virtually any computer configuration and make connectivity a snap. A precisely crafted media supply system is integrated as part of the floor stand (standard for both models), and ensures accurate loading of material, making long-length tracking and repetitive job operations effortless.

Cutting Master™ and QuickCut™ plug-in software are included with all CE3000Mk2 Series models and are designed to interface with popular graphics and illustration software programs such as Adobe® Illustrator® and CorelDraw®. These plug-ins allow users to output their favorite designs created on their own illustration software directly to the CE3000Mk2 cutting plotters. This provides the opportunity for new users to integrate an economical sign making system without a large investment.

Users of the FC Series Professional Cutting Plotters will find that the CE3000Mk2 provides the same ease of operation and familiar Graphtec menu options. The fundamental system architecture embodied in the new CE3000Mk2 Series shares its engineering concept with Graphtec’s high end products, thereby making the CE3000Mk2 Series not only a protected investment for a new sign business operation, but also an ideal companion to Graphtec’s flagship FC Series cutting plotters owned by experienced sign makers. The CE3000Mk2 will effectively assist those graphics professionals by improving productivity and streamlining their sign making operation, putting Graphtec’s quality and reliability within reach of all customers regardless of their budget limitations. Graphtec is confident that the addition of the new CE3000Mk2 Series models will meet or exceed the requirements of industry professionals and reinforce Graphtec’s position as leading supplier of quality imaging products. The CE3000Mk2 Series will be available for shipment in July 2005.

About Western Graphtec Inc.
Western Graphtec, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Graphtec Corporation in Yokohama, Japan. Recognized as a technological leader, Graphtec has engineering, manufacturing, distribution, and service operation in Japan and the United States of America. In addition, Graphtec products are sold and serviced via business partners and distributors worldwide

Western Graphtec
11 Vanderbilt,
Irvine, CA 92618-2067
Phone: 800-854-8385
Fax: 949-855-0895
E-Mail: nbaessler@graphtecusa.com
Website URL: www.graphtecusa.com