Hybrid Software releases Packz 11.5

Hybrid Software has released Packz 11.5, an update to its PDF editor for label and packaging pre-press that includes customer-driven innovations.

The release marks a significant milestone in the company's commitment to customer-driven development, with features shaped by input from the Packz user community.

'What makes this release especially significant is the input from our user community. Our DNA is to listen to customers and act on their input. For the 11.5 release, we have actively engaged with Packz users to gather suggestions, feature requests and usability insights. This collaborative effort has shaped the development of Packz 11.5, making it a reflection of the needs of our industry,' stated Pascal Wybo, product manager at Hybrid Software.

Packz 11.5 introduces the Halftone Detection Tool, a powerful extension to Packz Max that features integrated Harlequin RIP technology for control over screening parameters directly within the Packz editor. The tool evaluates screen frequency and screen angles directly from the Packz Max RIP output preview and any 1-bit TIFF file opened in Packz.

Beyond basic screening metrics, the tool delivers analysis of dot gain compensation, minimum and maximum dot sizes and plate linearization, ensuring optimal plate and print quality with consistent results across production environments.

In collaboration with technology partners Arden Software, Engview and TreeDiM, Hybrid Software has extended the CF2 standard with the introduction of 3D variants in Packz 11.5 and partner products. This capability allows multiple fold angle configurations, such as fully closed, lid open or folded flat, to be embedded within a single CF2 file.

These 3D variants are instantly rendered in Hybrid Software's iC3D ray-tracing software and are fully compatible with structural design systems from companies that support the Extended CF2 format and 3D variants.

Based on ColorLogic technology, Packz now renders spot colors on screen with accuracy using their spectral or colorimetric data. The improvements are most notable for spot color tints and blends of spot and process colors, maintaining a consistent hue. Spot color specifications are retrieved from CxF/X-4 spectral data in a PDF file or from selected color books.

Packzimizer Laneplanner introduces new features that enhance production accuracy and efficiency for roll-fed digital printed labels. The Laneplanner now supports maximum roll length specifications in version 11.5, ensuring optimized layouts stay within physical press or finishing equipment limits. Additionally, Laneplanner respects the exact label roll quantities required by customers, allowing converters to fulfill orders precisely without overproduction or waste.