LATEST ADDITIONS

X-Rite Inc. has introduced the the OPTIX XR2 display calibration and profiling
solution. Combining a state-of-the-art colorimeter with enriched software, the
OPTIX XR2 is said to deliver an unparalleled color management solution for displays;
including LCD, CRT and newly developed wide gamut technologies. Easy to use, the
OPTIX XR2 is X-Rite's most recent upgrade of MonacoOPTIX XR, which joined
X-Rite's product line after X-Rite acquired Monaco in 2003. This latest
iteration completes the integration of the product into the X-Rite family of color
measurement solutions.



The first and most fundamental step to ensure consistent and accurate color is
a properly calibrated monitor. The OPTIX XR2 allows users to adjust color at the
touch of a button. Plus, a new help system puts easy to find answers at the user's
fingertips.


OPTIX XR2 also has the ability to automatically recognize and take control of
your color display, with Automatic Display Control (ADC). Using one touch, ADC
will optimize your display's color temperature, contrast and brightness
settings to ensure you build the highest quality ICC profile and obtain the best
color results from your monitor.



In addition, an ambient diffuser attaches to the bottom of the OPTIX XR2 hardware,
allowing for more exact characterization of the user's environment, thus
improving the accuracy of profiles.



Designed to advance with users as they upgrade their display types, the OPTIX
XR2 builds the highest quality profile for today's as well as tomorrow's
advanced display technologies. Additionally, it recognizes when an upgrade is
necessary and prompts users to download the correct information required to properly
profile their monitor.



The OPTIX XR2 will be available to the market in late May, as will the OPTIX XR2PRO,
a network version for multi-workstation environments.



www.xrite.com...

Having logged more airline miles recently than I'd care to admit, with
cameras and lenses and laptop to boot, I welcome any products that can make
the trip, and transition between connections easier. The "post-9/11 world",
as it sadly has come to be known, has not made it easier on photographers to
get where they need to go with the gear they must trudge along with them. With
that in mind, we recently had a close look at the Airport Security Roller/Backpack
from ThinkTank Photo, which combines carry-on capability with security and gear
--protecting features.

...

Brandess-Kalt-Atena Group, Inc. has announced the introduction of the first
two models in their new Pelican RSV line. RSV stands for Rugged, Strong, and
Versatile which are terms used to describe this series of cases designed for
professional digital photographers on the move. The PCS247 model is an upright
camera/computer case on wheels that measures, outer dimensions are 18x14x10".
The inner dimensions are 16x12 1/2x7". The PCS2552 is a large camera/computer
case that can be hand or shoulder carried and can fit into the Pelican 1550
shell for added security. It measures 17 1/2x12 1/2x7" and features an
expandable computer pocket on the outside. Both are constructed from water resistant
1680D ballistic nylon and feature leather grain trim, moveable dividers, a padded
computer compartment, and PVC lined inner mesh pockets. Available in black or
green. Contact: Brandess-Kalt-Aetna Group, Inc., 701 Corporate Woods Parkway,
Vernon Hills, IL 60061, (800) 621-5488.

...

Just when you thought that there really wasn't much more that Adobe could possibly cram into Photoshop, Version CS2, part of the Creative Suite, was released last year. Whether you're a seasoned digital pro or a newcomer, how do all these new features work and how can they improve your workflow and shorten the time you spend in postproduction? Check out the valuable...