The project involves the complete replacement of the application software servers, with Harland Simon’s own roll handling system. Using off-the-shelf hardware instead of proprietary parts for the upgrade ensures that support and replacement components will be readily available locally and at competitive prices.

To enable the publication to spread the costs of the project over a number of financial cycles, the new roll handling system will be integrated with the current induction and roll preparation stations. To allow for a staged upgrade, the current roll retriever robots will be retained initially whilst the most critical system parts will be replaced early on to safeguard against component failure. The new system will maintain interfaces with the MAN Roland Pecom press controls and splicer system as well as Abitrol for stock and billing control. Replacing the Burr-Brown HMIs by ruggedized hand-held windows tablet devices will give The Star’s roll handlers the flexibility to control the system from any location. Removing the reliance on the old fixed position HMIs also gives the publication flexibility for future expansion.

John Staiano Managing Director – Americas for Harland Simon commented, “We are very excited about working with the Star over the coming years. This project follows a series of successful roll handling system upgrades we have carried out including the Aurosys replacement in 2013 at the Des Moines Register, another Gannett site.”

The project is scheduled for completion early in the 2nd quarter of 2016.