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HP unveiled what could possibly be some of the world's first printers built on its new Scalable Printing Technology at a regional media event today.

This new ink-based printing platform allows you to print at faster speeds without compromising on print quality, and at a lower running cost. In layman terms, what HP meant by being scalable is the compatibility of its printers and supplies targeted across different consumer and business segments, addressing the diverse needs of users. Its robust platform also makes ample room for future developments.

The US manufacturer showcased some new products based on this new technology including what it claims is the world's first home printing devices that deliver 4R photos under 14 seconds. It also unveiled possibly the world's fastest desktop color business printer that would benefit small and medium-sized enterprises in terms of print speeds which are twice as fast (compared with color laser printers under US$500) and up to 30 percent per-page cost savings, according to company.

Update: At the event, press additionally saw a demo of the company’s fastest business inkjet to date, the OfficeJet Pro K550, which will be competing in the affordable laser printer space for SOHO users. According to Azmat Ali, director of Marketing for HP's Business Printing Division, the key advantages of the K550 are its fast printing speed, low running costs and color printing capability. Adopting HP's latest Scalable Printing Technology, the inkbox is rated to be twice as fast as competing color laser models, capable of up to 37 b&w or 33 color prints in 1 minute. Azmat also claimed that running costs are 25 to 30 percent lower than the competition at 1.5 US cents and 6.2 US cents for each monochrome and color prints, respectively. Like many network laser printers, the K550 can be accessed remotely via its Web-based management application. A beefed-up model, the K550dtn, will come with auto duplexer, 350-sheet second tray and wired Ethernet capabilities.

As mentioned by Chris Morgan, senior vice president of the Imaging and Printing Group for HP Asia Pacific and Japan, the new technology is critical in allowing the company to "maintain leadership in current markets and unlocks new opportunities where customers need to do high-volume printing, like retail photo kiosks".

HP also released new ink and media that support the range of printers featuring this new scalable technology. The HP O2 ink cartridges come with unique design features which are color coded and have a distinctive key that matches its holder, enhancing the ease of use. Each of the new Advanced photo papers allows instant-dry printouts and comes with a barcode on the reverse that works with the sensors in the printers (Photosmart 8230 and 3000 series) in not only ensuring that the paper is the right side up, it is also water- and scratch-resistant.

Also known as the HP Big Bang, this annual regional event is in its fourth year and is held over two days in Singapore. Watch this space as we bring you more updates on the event tomorrow.