Digital Imaging Group -DIG- Ships Flashpix Format Interoperability Test Suite -IOTS-.

MILLBRAE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 9, 1998--The Digital Imaging Group (DIG), the premiere consortium of the digital imaging industry, announces the availability of the Flashpix Interoperability Test Suite (IOTS). Over 1500 requests for the IOTS have been received since the DIG began taking orders.

The software package was developed by the DIG for independent software developers using the Flashpix format. Specifically, the IOTS automates the testing of applications that read and write Flashpix format files and vastly reduces the cost of verifying that the format is implemented correctly.

"By providing tools such as the IOTS, the DIG is actively strengthening our commitment to open standards and offering not only our members, but all users of the Flashpix format, ways to achieve higher quality in imaging solutions," said Lisa Walker, DIG president. "A primary goal of the Digital Imaging Group is the creation of freely available specifications and software tools in support of digital imaging solutions. We realize interoperability is the key to the success of the Flashpix format; the DIG is pleased to offer free access to the IOTS."

In September, the DIG implemented an initiative-focused collaboration among member companies to facilitate and nurture the development of digital imaging standards. Such standards include the Flashpix format. The IOTS works to strengthen the Flashpix format as an innovative and easy-to-use imaging solution, regardless of platforms, devices and networks.

In order to use the Flashpix format logo, companies must certify that their applications pass the IOTS. The test suite supports two types of tests for identifying potential interoperability problems. First, the IOTS reads images created by the tester's application and flags any violations of the Flashpix format specification. Second, a set of images is provided to verify that a program can correctly read the most commonly used features of the Flashpix format.

Key Features of the Flashpix Interoperability Test Suite: -0-

--  Automates testing of the Flashpix format
--  Provides a detailed list of problems encountered, if any
--  Provides a comprehensive collection of Flashpix images for reading
--  Contains thorough documentation
--  Provides the latest copy of the Flashpix specification

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Product Availability

The Flashpix Interoperability Test Suite (IOTS) is available immediately. It can be requested, at no cost, by visiting the DIG web site: http://www.digitalimaging.org. Please visit the site for additional information about the Flashpix format logo using specifications.

About the Digital Imaging Group

Launched in October 1997, the DIG is an open-industry consortium created to expand the use of digital images across consumer, business and professional imaging markets and applications. Membership gives companies the opportunity to help define the evolving technical platforms in digital imaging, and to create solutions built on those foundations. Membership also gives participating companies the opportunity to collaborate in future marketing and promotional activities. Further information about the DIG is available at http://www.digitalimaging.org.

Note to Editors: The Flashpix format is a trademark of Digital Imaging Group, Inc. The Flashpix format was originally published by Eastman Kodak Company in collaboration with Microsoft Corporation, Hewlett-Packard Company and Live Picture Inc. These guidelines set forth by DIG, the current trade owner, supersede earlier versions published by Eastman Kodak Company. The Flashpix format is defined in a specification and test suite published by Digital Imaging Group, Inc. Only products that meet the specification and pass the test suite may use the Flashpix name and logo.