Spectra launches specialist wide format technical support service

Print Solutions

Spectra Service Solutions has launched a specialist technical and applications support business designed to extend engineering capability for wide format print companies, OEMs, distributors and resellers across the UK and further afield.

Founded by Marc Beresford and Adam Moore, Spectra brings together more than 40 years of wide format industry experience, much of it gained in technical and applications roles working directly for equipment manufacturers.

The company provides engineering and applications support across a range of wide format platforms, including Fujifilm Acuity Ultra and Acuity Prime systems, JHF and RTZ equipment, and Inca Onset hardware. Services include breakdown support, preventative maintenance, installation and commissioning, machine moves, operator training, colour management, applications development and spare parts supply.

A key differentiator is Spectra’s dedicated technical facility, which houses both an Acuity Ultra and Acuity Prime printer. This gives its engineers the ability to reproduce faults, test media and applications, develop machine settings and train operators away from a customer's production environment.

The launch comes at a time of change for users of Fujifilm's Acuity platform following the company's decision to stop selling new Acuity Prime and Acuity Ultra hardware. Spectra says existing users can continue to access specialist engineering expertise, spare parts and Fujifilm inks through its service.

‘The printers themselves haven't suddenly changed,’ said Marc Beresford, co-founder and director of Spectra. ‘The manufacturers are still there, the parts and ink remain available, and the technical knowledge exists to keep the equipment productive.

‘Our role is to make that knowledge and engineering resource available to customers, distributors and manufacturers who need it.’

Spectra's relationship with JHF and RTZ, manufacturers of equipment it supports, has also developed into a wider technical support role. Initially focused on the UK, this work has expanded to include international installations and second- and third-line support for European distributors.

For OEMs, distributors and resellers, Spectra can provide additional engineering resource without the need to immediately expand their own technical teams. This can include equipment installation and commissioning, demonstrations, operator training and specialist second or third line support.

For print businesses, the company's applications expertise extends beyond machine engineering. Spectra can investigate production issues involving media, machine settings, colour management and workflow, helping to identify whether a problem lies with equipment, materials or the production process.

Its engineering expertise also extends to Inca Onset systems and subsequent Agfa derivatives, supporting users across both legacy and current platforms.

The company is holding commonly required spare parts at its UK facility and can supply components directly where appropriate. Customers can access the service through individual engineering call outs, scheduled servicing and preventative maintenance programmes, as well as longer term support arrangements.

Remote support is available internationally, complemented by on-site engineering when required.

‘We have built Spectra around a simple principle: good equipment should remain productive for as long as it can,’ added Marc. ‘Whether a customer needs help with a breakdown, an application, an installation or a more complex technical issue, we can provide the specialist resource to keep the equipment working.’

Pictured: Marc Beresford (left) and Adam Moore, the co-founders and directors of Spectra.