Global Graphics XPS reference RIP available

The XPS Reference RIP implementation that Global Graphics has developed for Microsoft Corp is now available for download.

To help hardware and software developers in their XPSDrv driver testing and development for Windows Vista is now available for download from the Microsoft web site Release Candidate 1 (RC1) of Version 1.0 of the XPS Reference RIP heralds the next phase of Global Graphics' contract with Microsoft under which Global Graphics has been providing consultancy and proof of concept development services on XPS since 2003 and working with the Windows development teams on the specification for the new format.

"The Reference Raster Image Processor is an important addition to the Windows driver developer toolset," said Madelyn Bryant McIntire, Group Program Manager for the Windows Documents and Printing team at Microsoft.

"Global Graphics is a valued industry partner, and we believe our ability to provide its XPS Reference RIP will further accelerate OEM adoption of the XPS format." The reference RIP contains version 1.0 of Global Graphics' core XPS kernel, which has also been delivered to partners who are participating in Global Graphics' Early Adopter Program.

Concurrent with the work it has undertaken directly for Microsoft, Global Graphics has been readying an extended range of commercial solutions based on the same core kernel that it has provided to Microsoft but with features and optimisations above and beyond the reference RIP implementation.

The core kernel is designed for integration into solutions for the full range of printing devices from desktop inkjet printers to high-speed digital presses used in commercial printing.

Global Graphics chief technology officer, Martin Bailey says, "Since we launched our XPS Early Adopter Program in September 2005 we have given more than a dozen printer and MFP manufacturers access to our XPS technology".

"Publication of the "Reference Raster Image Processor" on Microsoft's Windows Developer Kit web site, based on our core kernel, is an exciting step forward in expanding that availability." Global Graphics' broader XPS solutions includes an XPS RIP for high performance XPS interpretation; XPS filters to provide more components for host-based workflows; scalable consumption for low-end embedded devices which have limited resources; and, XPS conversion technology for print and print-related workflows and for use in application software.

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