Xaar has launched two printheads for the wide- and grand-format inkjet print markets.

　　The entry-level Electron and the high-productivity wide-swathe Proton are next-generation Platform 1 binary printheads, according to the company.

　　Xaar added that it has worked closely with several printer manufacturers to time the global launch of the printheads with the commercial launch of next-generation wide-format printers incorporating the technology.

　　In an endorsement of the productivity of the printheads, Witcolor, Hijet, Chiting Digital Technology and RTZ are launching five Electron-based models and 12 Proton-based solvent and UV inkjet models at the Sign China exhibition, which runs from 28 February to 3 March.

　　Infiniti Digital, meanwhile, will demonstrate the Proton-enabled Hijet Rodin printer at the Graphic Arts of Americas show in Miami on 26-28 February.

　　The printers are said to set new standards in performance and are suitable for the production of indoor and outdoor graphics printed on a variety of flexible materials, including paper, PVC, film, mesh fabrics and vinyl.

　　With the addition of the printheads to Xaar's range, which now features eight models each with multiple versions, the company believes that manufacturers can select the most appropriate technology for their applications.

　　Xaar added that manufacturers have welcomed the design and flexibility of the Electron and Proton printheads and their compatibility with a range of solvent and UV inks.

　　Manufacturing is streamlined owing to integral electronics and ease of integration with existing drive electronics, according to the company.

　　Consequently, companies can provide competitive printers that combine high levels of quality and speed with cost effectiveness and the low cost of ownership.

　　The 128-channel Electron, which builds on the format of the Xaar 128, features silicon integrated-circuit technology.

　　It is claimed to have print speeds up to 70 per cent faster when compared to the first-generation Xaar 126/128 to maximise the output speeds of wide-format printers.

　　Providing solvent compatibility and now the potential for UV ink capability, the Electron is available in 35- and 70-picolitre drop-size options.

　　The Proton is said to be a premium print-quality, wide-swathe (53.7mm), high-resolution binary printhead designed for high-volume indoor and outdoor graphics.

　　Featuring piezo and nozzle processing technology as used on the Xaar 1001 printhead, the Proton is said to provide consistent print performance, enabling users to print better quality without compromising on speed.

　　The Proton jets a 35-picolitre drop size from individually lasered nozzles for drop uniformity and results.