MediaFORM, a manufacturer of
CD-R duplicators, has introduced cdDIRECTOR 3706NT, a network-enabled disc-on-demand
CD-R production system. John McGrath, MediaFORM’s director of manufacturing
and technical services, said: “The cdDIRECTOR is a fully automated network-attached
CD imaging, mastering, and duplication system with in-line color printing
and remote client access offering a true blend of simplicity and versatility
in any production environment.”
The cdDIRECTOR comes with a complete software set that allows the user
to design the CD artwork for “direct to CD” in-line printing, CD mastering,
and job maintenance. While no other software is needed, the cdDIRECTOR’s
provides an API for customization for those who want to integrate the cdDIRECTOR
into their own applications. According to the announcement, MediaFORM has
already seen success with its API in such industries as telecommunications,
insurance, software distribution, document imaging, security, data brokerage,
and archiving. The cdDIRECTOR is equally capable at creating unique CDs
as it is as a duplicator. The key features of cdDIRECTOR include the following:
Network integration—Through the use of a Microsoft NT operating system,
the cdDIRECTOR can readily attach to virtually any network.
Shared network resource—Multiple users on a network can utilize the cdDIRECTOR
to generate CDs. Analogous to a print server where a printer is shared
by multiple users, the cdDIRECTOR can be shared to create CDs. Alternatively,
it can be used as a CD duplicator regardless of whether it is attached
to a network.
Cross-platform client support—Only a Web browser is needed to launch jobs.
In this way, client computers can be Macintosh, UNIX workstations, or essentially
any machine capable of running a Java-enabled Web browser.
Capacity and throughput—Each cdDIRECTOR is equipped with six 8x CD-Recorders
capable of running as many as six different jobs at a time. A high-capacity
200-disc input/output can keep the cdDIRECTOR running unattended for many
hours.
Integrity of copies and quality assurance—Separate Input, Accept, and Reject
bins minimize handling errors. According to the company, full bit-for-bit
verification assures 100-percent accurate copies.
Integrated printing—Each duplicated disc can be printed in-line with user-definable
artwork. The SmartPRINT feature allows pre-silk-screened discs to be positioned
for correct overprinting. This is ideal for those who want a truly professional-looking
product, yet who still want to be able to economically customize the appearance
of each CD.
Powerful API—While the cdDIRECTOR comes fully functional with a robust
software set, MediaFORM’s Easi-API makes it simple to allow your application
to control the cdDIRECTOR. No knowledge of the underlying CD technology
is needed.