LAS VEGAS, NV--(Marketwire - March 15, 2011) -
- Intuitive interface allows easy access to all features
- Fully customizable with real-time image preview
- New interface debuts on MX-2610/3110/3610 MFP models
Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, introduces a revolutionary intuitive MFP user interface (UI) that brings unprecedented interactivity, ease-of-use and customization to the document management experience. Debuting on Sharp's new A3 workgroup MFPs, and soon to be available throughout the company's line, the new interface is displayed on a large, bright 10.1-inch color LCD touchscreen and will change the way MFPs are used.
"Sharp is known for leading the MFP industry with cutting-edge products and technologies, but our new user interface is perhaps the most significant leap we have made as a company in more than a decade," said Ed McLaughlin, president, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. "Our 'smart' MFP user interface is an absolute game changer. The icon-driven operation, combined with the Sharp OSA® platform version 4.0, makes the MFP significantly more convenient to use, more adaptable to specific jobs and more productive than ever before."
The "Smart MFP"
Operating in a manner similar to today's most advanced smart phones, Sharp's new user interface provides easy access to all MFP features, each of which are viewed as familiar icons. Users can perform all tasks using "flick," "tap," "slide" and "drag" gestures on the color LCD touchscreen. Icons perform the tasks the user expects them to, and the system guides the user based on the previous commands to help them execute desired functions more quickly. This "smart" user experience dramatically reduces the learning curve, leading to more widespread use of advanced functions like duplexing, staple sorting and others.
The new UI also intelligently helps eliminate waste with a virtual proofing feature. Users can see and proof the entire document on the MFP's large color LCD panel before printing. Page layout and staple or hole-punch locations are also displayed on the screen to ensure that fewer printing mistakes are made. MFPs with the new interface also feature an eco-learning mode which allows them to adjust the power-up cycles to meet the customer's usage schedule. This promotes optimal productivity while achieving the lowest possible power consumption.
The MFP built for "U"
Sharp's new UI enables unprecedented levels of customization and personalization. Each user can have their own personalized menu that matches their profile, workflow and even personal or language preferences. The home screen is customizable down to the screen colors and can be easily programmed with one-touch icon shortcuts based on the user's permissions or most-used functions. In traditional MFPs, complex jobs require drilling down to multiple menus and a high level of familiarity with the interface. With a one-touch shortcut, there is less time sifting through menus each time a job is performed.
The new UI can present menu choices in twenty-four different languages, making it an ideal solution for multilingual offices.
"Without a doubt, Sharp's new touch screen UI has raised the bar in the product segment," said Andy Slawetsky, president, Industry Analysts, a leading office equipment testing and market research group. "Sharp has ushered in the era of the 'smart MFP' and we believe it will significantly change the way document solutions are built, sold, and used."
National Dealer Meeting Focuses on "UI"
The theme of Sharp's 2011 National Dealer Meeting is "UI," which has multiple meanings. Of course, "UI" signifies the new User Interface. It also underscores Sharp's commitment to the end User. Sharp's new UI is based on several years of collaborative research between the company's engineers, its global product development teams, and its dealer customers. Through a process that is unique to Sharp, the company actively engages both dealers and end-user customers to test ideas and get their input on future product development. This focus and commitment on "U" (the user) means that Sharp can clearly understand an enterprise's needs, and develop a product that meets these needs.
Sharp OSA version 4 Optimized for Sharp's New UI
In conjunction with the launch of Sharp's new UI, the company is also releasing Sharp OSA 4.0, the latest version of Sharp's award-winning application development platform. Optimized for the new UI, Sharp OSA 4.0, opens exciting new possibilities for integration with cloud-based and SaaS technologies.
For more information about the complete line of Sharp document solution products, contact Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America, Sharp Plaza, Mahwah, N.J.07495-1163, or call 800-BE-SHARP. For online product information, visit Sharp's Web site at sharpusa.com or sharpusa.com/documents.
Sharp Electronics Corporation is the U.S. subsidiary of Japan's Sharp Corporation, a worldwide developer of one-of-a-kind home entertainment products, appliances, networked multifunctional office solutions, solar energy solutions, LED lighting and mobile communication and information tools. Leading brands include AQUOS® Quattron™ LCD televisions and 3DTVs, SharpVision® projectors, Insight® Microwave Drawer® ovens, Notevision® multimedia projectors and Plasmacluster® air purifiers. For more information visit Sharp Electronics Corporation at www.sharpusa.com. Follow us on Twitter and watch us on YouTube.
Sharp, Sharp OSA, and related trademarks are trademarks or registered trademarks of Sharp Corporation and/or its affiliated companies. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Contact Information:
CONTACT:
Romina Varriale
Crenshaw Communications
Phone: 212-367-9744
Email: romina@crenshawcomm.com
Chris Loncto
Sharp Electronics Corporation
Phone: 201-529-8680
Email: lonctoc@sharpsec.com