October 2012 - Simplified XF Rendering Server Licensing Structure

As we continue to evolve with the demands of today’s business environment and best facilitate the needs of our customers, we are implementing an improved licensing structure for Ecrion’s XF Rendering Server.  Based on both customer feedback and the growing movement towards virtual environments, we are upgrading our license model to accommodate the need for a more simplified licensing structure.  The goal of this change is to give you access to the industry-leading solutions you need – in the most efficient manner possible.

Effective January 1, 2013, Per-CPU licenses will no longer be an available option.  At this time, we will roll out our improved, more cost effective Per-Core licensing model.  While we will continue to fully support existing Per-CPU licenses, we will no longer make them available for purchase after this date. 

Technological advancements continue to push organizations and their systems in the direction of virtual licensing, and Per-CPU models are simply losing feasibility, as AIX and other environments continue to evolve.

The new structure will feature licenses for as low as $1750, making Ecrion’s technology more accessible than ever.  The per-core structure simplifies how licenses are administered, making it much easier for users to gain access, transfer licenses, or receive support. Per-Core licensing is far more adaptable, and allows for easy scaling and integration as your needs grow.

Again, if you currently utilize Ecrion’s Per Physical CPU XF Rendering Server license, you will continue to receive support.  However, it is important that you take time to assess your needs moving forward, and purchase any additional Per-CPU licenses you require prior to January 1, 2013.  For more information about the new structure or how to transition into virtual licenses, please Click Here.

FAQ

-How will this affect my current license?

This will not affect your current license, only your ability to purchase new Per-CPU licenses in the future. Maintenance renewals will remain the same

Will I be able to purchase new Per-CPU licenses in the future?

No, after January 1, 2013, Per-CPU licenses will not be available for purchase

-How hard is it to change from Per-CPU to Per-Core licenses?

Transitioning to Per-Core licenses is painless and easy.  Click Here or contact info@ecrion.com for complete details on how to transition.

-What if I don’t want to transition to Per-Core licenses?

You will not be required to move to the Per-Core licenses, and we will continue to support your Per-CPU licenses. Please be aware that after January 1, 2013, you will no longer be able to purchase additional Per-CPU licenses.

-Are the Per-Core licenses more expensive?

No, the Per-Core licenses are offered starting at $1,750, which is $400 cheaper than our previously offered pricing model.

-Are the system requirements the same for Per-Core licenses?

Yes, the system requirements are exactly the same.

-Will my performance be affected in any way?

No, the technology performs exactly the same via Per-Core licenses as it does Per-CPU licenses.

Important.  Please understand that if you need additional Per-CPU licenses for any reason, you must purchase them prior to the end of the year. Please feel free to contact us at: info@ecrion.com for additional information.

May 2012 - Spreads Coming to XF Rendering Server

In our ongoing pursuit of providing the most functional products to our customers, we are pleased to announce the upcoming addition of the ‘Spreads’ feature for XF Ultrascale. Spreads is a new attribute that allows for the design and generation of highly engaging documents through the ability to create cross-page outputs.

With this feature, XF Ultrascale will provide even more advanced publishing capabilities. Titles, charts, tables, and text blocks can be set to span across multiple pages.  Due to its visual impact, it is a perfect attribute to use when creating client brochures, sales pieces, marketing collateral, and more.  In addition, is very handy when the information that needs to be presented is too large to fit on a page. Look for the Spreads feature  and more great updates in our next release, which is scheduled for June!

Figure 1:  Sample Spreads-Span Layout

April 2012 - XF Rendering Server News & Updates

For our latest production release, which is scheduled for this June, we have made several additions and enhancements to the XF Rendering Server.  One feature that will be included is the addition of the select printer hot folder.  This will allow users the ability to specify local or network printers for direct printing once the output is completed.  Additional updates include:

• Added reuse of image resource for AFP output.
• TrueType fonts are now converted on the fly to the AFP font format.
• For Wordml input we now support Text Wrapping, Grouping, and TOC Generation
• Added the ability to generate speaker notes for PowerPoint output
• Added the ability to spread objects across multiple pages (a feature that will be called "spreads").

Stay tuned for more information in our next newsletter!

Figure 1: Printer Hot Folder

Figure 2:  Added image resource reuse capability for AFP format