Konica Minolta Launches Next-Generation Bizhub MFP Product Line

Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A. announced March 21 that it has launched its next-generation bizhub multifunction peripherals product line, which combines enhanced security features with printing, scanning, copying and faxing capabilities.

Konica Minoltas next-generation bizhub MFP product line provides business users with enhanced security features such as a biometric authentication unit, which scans a users finger patterns and then encrypts and stores that information so that it can be used to distinguish users.

“Our next-generation bizhubs provide businesses with end-to-end security as we certify our systems by following necessary security protocol,” said Kevin Kern, vice president of product planning and development at Konica Minolta Business Solutions, based in Ramsey, N.J.

Konica Minoltas bizhub product line was originally launched in 2004, but the company has since then added to it with new MFPs and advanced features.

“Our goal with our bizhub product line is to offer customers a full portfolio of MFP products that deliver improved color print quality and workflow capabilities,” said Jun Haraguchi, president and CEO of Konica Minolta Business Solutions, in a statement.

The next-generation bizhub product line now uses Simitri HD (high definition) color polymerized toner, giving users strong image quality while also being energy-efficient by using induction heating, which involves less energy and heat during startup.

“Users can put the machine to sleep and have it back up and running in up to 30 seconds,” Kern said.

The next generation of Konica Minoltas bizhub MFPs also supports Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6), the next-generation Internet communication protocol that will allow for more hosts and increased data traffic.

Windows Vista support will also be included in Konica Minoltas next-generation bizhub MFPs, providing business users with support for Windows Vista XPS Printing and Scanning.

Konica Minolta also announced that as part of its next-generation bizhub product line, it has released the bizhub C550. The new MFP platform includes all of the above mentioned features while also being able to print up to 45 ppm (pages per minute) in color and 55 ppm in black and white.

The C550 also includes an InfoLine feature, which makes the status of key device functions visible from distances across the room, allowing business professionals to manage paper levels without having to leave the desk.

The bizhub C550 is available through Konica Minoltas North American direct sales, authorized dealer and value-added reseller channels for a price of $25,000.

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