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The speed results from a new 600x600dpi Piezo Inkjet Line Head. Unlike standard inkjets, where the print head moves across the paper, the Piezo is static, and the paper does all the work. Each colour has a separate A6 print head which stretches across the width of the paper; to get A4 they just string two heads together. In fact, there is no limit to the number that can be arrayed and no impact on speed.

Not only is it fast - as quick as offset litho - because there is less movement the technology also uses less power, around seven per cent of that required by conventional inkjets.

Although the working prototype is being shown at the World Fair in Aichi, Japan, Brother is not saying when the technology will go into production and has hinted that it is seeking a partner to contribute further funding.

Further information can be found in the technology paper PDF.

[The picture shows standard inkjet technology on the left and the new technology on the right.]