The smart way to automate - Zünd and Caldera launch PrimeCenter prepress automation software

Zünd and well-known French software manufacturer Caldera have launched a new software solution that creates an ultra-efficient prepress workflow. PrimeCenter simplifies file preparation and output, allowing users to configure their workflows– from design to print to cut – with the level of automation that best meet their needs. Workflowmanagement is becoming more complex and so is the coordination of internal production processes. More and more often, web shops are integrated as an additional sales channel. This tends to increase the number of jobs while decreasing the run length. From a production standpoint, it heightens the need for a highly flexible, easy-to-use file-prep procedure. Which is exactly why PrimeCenter was created.  

In just a few steps, the user can take artwork and create a print-ready layout. In doing so, the user can choose to go through the required steps manually or create a fully automated process. PrimeCenter offers the user complete freedom of choice as to the desired degree of prepress-workflow automation – intelligently and exactly as demand dictates. PrimeCenter is available in Basic, Pro, and Max versions. The level of automation can be adapted to changing requirements at any time. Because of PrimeCenter's open interface, the software can output to any RIP/printer and any cutter.

Graphics can be nested contour-based at the push of a button or in an automated process. This results in optimal material yield with minimal waste and shorter production time. Often, however, maximizing material usage is not the primary concern. That is where PrimeCenter offers an array of alternative nesting methods. For example, jobs can be ganged using metadata to simplify sorting, if they consist of multiple parts, or to have them be ready for delivery at the same time.  

PrimeCenter makes it very easy to create trim boxes, define bleed, or add register marks. For applications involving transparent materials or transfer print, there is an option to mirror the layout. PrimeCenter also lets the user integrate selected metadata in the output file. The information printed along with the job facilitates job tracking and, once cutting is complete, quick and correct attribution of cut parts to the respective orders. The PDF files are verified by Preflight Check after import and before export.

Optionally, each step of the process may be automated by hot folders, filename conversion or by using an XML-based job ticket exported from an MIS or ERP system or a web shop. PrimeCenter handles layout preparation and preflight checking autonomously and reliably – the perfect basis for an efficient, cohesive workflow.

The integration with Zünd Cut Server and Cut Time Estimation makes production planning faster and more flexible. The visualization of the expected production time creates transparency. At any given time, this makes it easy for the user to keep track of time allotments and with it, the ability to guarantee close adherence to specified delivery times.