Alpharel Inc, Camarillo, California is challenging IBM’s ImagePlus array of document and image processing products with its own solution for users of the VM operating system on the 9370 – or on bigger 370s if they wish. The entry-level system consists of Alpharel’s proprietary Image Utility software core, which controls scanning, indexing, retrieval and storage of documents and information, and special applications software, notably a technical document management system for engineering and technical drawing offices. The company is offering the Image Utility software, personal computer-based image workstations, optical storage and applications software at from $150,000 to $300,000, depending on configuration, and will supply the 9370 too if customers request it. Delivery is 90 days. And if anyone wonders about the sudden upsurge in image announcements bursting out in every direction from the US, yes, there was a big US image show last week.
