FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 21, 2008

Graphtec America, Inc. Introduces the New FC8000 Series High Performance Cutting Plotters

Graphtec America, Inc. of Santa Ana, California, announces its new FC8000 series Cutting Pro™ high-performance cutting plotters for sign makers, graphic artists, auto-aftermarket professionals, countertop installers and other related users. A newly designed 3 inch wide user-friendly interactive LCD control Panel, with Dual configuration function allowing two different users to set and save independent settings for customized jobs on a single FC8000 cutter. Eight condition settings for each of the two users provide an instant recall of pre-programmed setup conditions. The FC 8000 has an optional Ethernet capability, which allows for one user to run multiple machines.

As with its predecessor the FC7000MK2 series, it includes the ARMS ­ Advanced Registration Marks System. This system adjusts for several types of potential print distortions, allowing for accurate contour cutting of printed images and decals. Added to the ARMS System with the FC 80000, is ARMS sensitivity adjustment for registration mark detection on various media and colors. New manufacturing technologies, along with the latest engineering advancements provide an effective & convenient handling of thin window films as well as thicker paint protection films. Features include; additional push rollers with 3 tension settings allowing for strong or medium media tension on the ends and light media tension in the middle, protecting the window tint /paint film from being damaged. Also, Graphtec will make available an optional Automotive Film AKZ kit for the FC8000 series, which will include: extended media brackets and antistatic string installed on the front and back of the cut ter, reducing static electricity preventing restricted media movement. In addition, the kit will include a chamfer-tipped blade holder, which is an extruded tip for less contact with the media eliminating jumping.

These new features allow Graphtec to make an unprecedented move forward in the automotive industry. The new FC8000 series is available in five model configurations: FC8000-60 24”, FC8000-75 30”, the FC8000-100 42”, the FC8000-130 54”, the FC8000-160 64”. Maximum compatible media widths for each model are 30.3”, 36”, 48”, 60”, and 72” respectively, ideal for cutting large one piece vehicle patterns. Includes plug-in software (Cutting Master) for Adobe® Illustrator® and CorelDraw® and a new Cutting Plotter Controller Software. This software enables PC control of the FC8000, including adjusting plotter settings and sharing information with other FC8000 users. Each unit includes a floor stand and dual media catch basket for dust-free, continuous long length and/or repetitive job operations. The FC8000 series will be sold in the worldwide market through established distribution channels commencing July 2008.

FC8000 Features:
The FC8000 series features a maximum cutting speed of 58.5 in/sec, 4.0G maximum acceleration, and 20 to 600g selectable cutting forces, allowing users to process diamond grade, high-intensity reflective film, sandblast resist rubber, automotive window & paint protection films, self-adhesive vinyl, among other media types. With the world’s fastest throughput performance and superb accuracy, the new FC8000 series accommodates the most demanding cutting and plotting projects and provides users with the versatility needed for a wide variety of applications.

A newly designed 3 inch wide user-friendly interactive LCD control Panel, with Dual configuration function allowing two different users to set and save independent settings for customized jobs on a single FC8000 cutter. Eight condition settings for each of the two users provide an instant recall of pre-programmed setup conditions. This feature improves overall efficiency and productivity for the user, allowing them to retain their most commonly used media and job type settings for immediate use on a later project. Each of the eight conditions have eight settings that can be programmed with the specific type of tool/pen, cutting/plotting speed, acceleration, force, tangential control and distance compensation required for a specific application. In addition, settings can be programmed remotely using the Cutting plotter controller software.

The new FC8000 series is compatible with design/illustration software. A Windows® driver for PCs (compatible with Windows® 98, ME, 2000, XP, and now Vista®), Controller software for remote cutter/plotter set-up/operation, and Adobe® Illustrator®/CorelDraw® plug-in software for Macintosh® and Windows® come standard with all FC8000 cutters.

Optional features/accessories to maximize user efficiency include, stand-integrated media racks. These can hold up to three extra rolls for convenient loading of media with different types, sizes, and colors. An optional second penholder benefits those users who frequently switch between test plotting and cutting operations by eliminating the need for manual replacement of tools/pens. The FC8000 has the standard USB 2.0 and RS-232 serial interfaces with a new optional Ethernet Interface.

Graphtec America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Graphtec Corporation in Yokohama, Japan. Graphtec produces plotters, vinyl cutters, color printers, scanners, intelligent recording instruments, and data acquisition systems. Recognized as a technological leader, Graphtec has engineering, manufacturing, distribution, and service operations in Japan and the United States of America. In addition, Graphtec products are sold and serviced via business partners and distributors worldwide.

Graphtec America, Inc.
1251 E. Dyer Road Suite 110
Santa Ana, CA 92705
Phone: 800-854-8385
E-Mail: gliebner@graphtecusa.com
Website URL: www.graphtecamerica.com