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EZ-Controller – Judgement Day!

  • Updated: March 24, 2026

AUTHOR: InsituaFX (London, UK) – creators of BlueFX Software. With decades of experience in photographic printing software and workflow solutions for imaging brands including Fujifilm. For more info see Abouts Us.

EZ-Controller: Integration and Workflow Optimization
BlueFX seamlessly integrates with Noritsu EZ-Controller, enabling users to streamline their printing processes and enhance their photography experience. With BlueFX, Noritsu EZ-Controller users can easily manage school photography, sports events, and wedding orders within the platform. The software offers self-fulfillment web orders and centralized order management. An exciting new feature from BlueFX allows for automatic printing on Noritsu QSS minilabs by simply scanning a job barcode. This innovative functionality ensures efficient and accurate order fulfillment. Elevate your photography business with BlueFX and simplify photo lab integration for seamless printing on Noritsu QSS minilabs and other minilabs and printers like the Epson SureLab D1000 Series (including models like D1060 and D1070) and Fujifilm Frontiers such as the DX100, DX400 and DL650/DL600 [en];BlueFX s'intègre de manière transparente avec Noritsu EZ-Controller, permettant aux utilisateurs de rationaliser leurs processus d'impression et d'améliorer leur expérience photographique. Avec BlueFX, les utilisateurs de Noritsu EZ-Controller peuvent facilement gérer la photographie scolaire, les événements sportifs et les commandes de mariage au sein de la plateforme. Le logiciel propose des commandes Web en libre-service et une gestion centralisée des commandes. Une nouvelle fonctionnalité intéressante de BlueFX permet l'impression automatique sur les minilabs Noritsu QSS en scannant simplement un code-barres de travail. Cette fonctionnalité innovante garantit une exécution efficace et précise des commandes. Améliorez votre entreprise de photographie avec BlueFX et simplifiez l'intégration du laboratoire photo pour une impression transparente sur les minilabs Noritsu QSS et d'autres minilabs et imprimantes comme la série Epson SureLab D1000 (y compris les modèles comme D1060 et D1070) et Fujifilm Frontiers comme le DX100, DX400 et DL650/DL600 [fr];BlueFX lässt sich nahtlos in den Noritsu EZ-Controller integrieren, sodass Benutzer ihre Druckprozesse optimieren und ihr Fotoerlebnis verbessern können. Mit BlueFX können Noritsu EZ-Controller-Benutzer problemlos Schulfotografie, Sportveranstaltungen und Hochzeitsaufträge innerhalb der Plattform verwalten. Die Software bietet Self-Fulfillment-Webbestellungen und eine zentrale Auftragsverwaltung. Eine aufregende neue Funktion von BlueFX ermöglicht das automatische Drucken auf Noritsu QSS-Minilabs durch einfaches Scannen eines Auftragsbarcodes. Diese innovative Funktionalität gewährleistet eine effiziente und genaue Auftragsabwicklung. Steigern Sie Ihr Fotogeschäft mit BlueFX und vereinfachen Sie die Fotolaborintegration für nahtloses Drucken auf Noritsu QSS-Minilabs und anderen Minilabs und Druckern wie der Epson SureLab D1000-Serie (einschließlich Modellen wie D1060 und D1070) und Fujifilm Frontiers wie dem DX100, DX400 und DL650/DL600 [de];BlueFX se integra a la perfección con Noritsu EZ-Controller, lo que permite a los usuarios optimizar sus procesos de impresión y mejorar su experiencia fotográfica. Con BlueFX, los usuarios de Noritsu EZ-Controller pueden administrar fácilmente fotografías escolares, eventos deportivos y pedidos de bodas dentro de la plataforma. El software ofrece pedidos web de autorrealización y gestión centralizada de pedidos. Una nueva característica emocionante de BlueFX permite la impresión automática en minilabs Noritsu QSS simplemente escaneando un código de barras de trabajo. Esta funcionalidad innovadora garantiza un cumplimiento de pedidos eficiente y preciso. Eleve su negocio de fotografía con BlueFX y simplifique la integración del laboratorio fotográfico para una impresión perfecta en minilabs Noritsu QSS y otros minilabs e impresoras como la serie Epson SureLab D1000 (incluidos modelos como D1060 y D1070) y Fujifilm Frontiers como DX100, DX400 y DL650/DL600 [es];BlueFX si integra perfettamente con Noritsu EZ-Controller, consentendo agli utenti di semplificare i loro processi di stampa e migliorare la loro esperienza fotografica. Con BlueFX, gli utenti di Noritsu EZ-Controller possono gestire facilmente la fotografia scolastica, gli eventi sportivi e gli ordini di nozze all'interno della piattaforma. Il software offre ordini web con autoevasione e gestione centralizzata degli ordini. Una nuova entusiasmante funzionalità di BlueFX consente la stampa automatica sui minilab Noritsu QSS semplicemente scansionando un codice a barre del lavoro. Questa funzionalità innovativa garantisce un'evasione degli ordini efficiente e accurata. Migliora la tua attività di fotografia con BlueFX e semplifica l'integrazione del laboratorio fotografico per una stampa perfetta sui minilab Noritsu QSS e altri minilab e stampanti come la serie Epson SureLab D1000 (inclusi modelli come D1060 e D1070) e Fujifilm Frontiers come DX100, DX400 e DL650/DL600 [it]

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Key Takeaways

  • Product: EZ-Controller – an image software tool normally used with Noritsu minilabs.
  • Integration: BlueFX translates EZ-Controller output either just corrected image folders or those with job data like DPOF, into job orders capable of printing on a range of the latest printers (e.g., Epson SureLab D1070, Fujifilm DX400) via BlueControl.
  • Feature: Support for Barcode Job Sheets to automate scanning and job routing.
  • Use case: Labs migrating from legacy wet minilabs to inkjet printers can retain image preparation workflow, even the pre-judge mode of operations while printing on the latest dry lab printers.

Decades of experience constructing digital print workflows coupled with years of practical lab ownership

What is EZ-Controller?

EZ-Controller is an image optimisation and job preparation tool used in photographic lab workflows to predominantly for cropping, colour correction, and selection changes before printing.

It is mostly used with Noritsu QSS workflows but can be used in broader workflows when paired with BlueFX/BlueControl to be a gateway to other print workflows which can include a mix of different output devices. This can include legacy and newer printers of varying models and manufacturers within the same workflow!

If your lab already works in EZ Controller, BlueFX can sit behind it as the routing layer, so the team keeps its pre-judge routines while output is redirected to newer Epson or Fujifilm printers.

Common entities and file types:

  • EZ-Controller project imports – the files you open in EZ-Controller including during pre-judge mode.
  • Scanners and Internet orders – jobs arriving from high resolution film scanners, web shop orders, kiosk etc.
    with option release via barcode scan. BlueFX and BlueControl can themselves be a source of the initial DPOF order!
  • Edited image files – JPEG images after crop and colour fixes.
  • DPOF orders (Digital Print Order Format) – print order job format that reference the images and print settings.

Transitioning from Wet Lab to Dry Lab

Labs moving from traditional minilabs to inkjet printing often face two challenges:

  1. Preserving established pre-judge workflows (operator routines and approvals performed in EZ-Controller).
  2. Ensuring original and modified orders can be accepted by the latest inkjet printers.

Integration approach:

  • BlueFX monitors EZ-Controller output and converts it into our internal job format, enabling printing to any BlueControl-supported device, including the Epson SureLab series.

  • The internal format allows access to a range of other features such as package printing, media control, resolution control and also custom ICC profiles.
  • Manage the workflow to direct orders or part orders to the correct printers with load balancing (i.e. Sharing printing between 2 or more printer) if necessary.

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Optimizing Digital Print Order Format (DPOF) workflows

DPOF (Digital Print Order Format) is an industry metadata format used to specify print selections, quantities, and print-level instructions. 

The workflow:

  1. Pre-judge and edit: Operator opens a job in EZ-Controller, applies cropping, rotation, and colour corrections.
  2. Export: EZ-Controller exports revised image files and updates the DPOF job information.
  3. Replace/Update: Exported images and updated job information replace the original assets referenced by the DPOF package.
  4. Job detection: BlueFX monitors the job directory and detects the waiting DPOF order.
  5. Job import: BlueFX accepts the DPOF job with associated images and prepares an internal order for processing.
  6. Print fulfillment: The BlueControl RIP manages the printing process including for instance package printing, to the selected printers.

Case study: Replace traditional minilab printing to SureLab Inkjet printing

Scenario: High maintenance costs & environmental concerns coupled with less expensive alternatives were some of the considerations in revamping their workflow. This professional lab replaced a legacy Noritsu minilab with four Epson SureLab D870 inkjet printers. But they also sought to retain the image processing capabilities of EZ-Controller.

The new BlueFX workflow provided the opportunity to select from a range of new printers from different manufacturers. They considered the Fujifilm DX100 but eventually opted for the then newer Epson SureLab D870 which was subsequently upgrade to the later Epson SureLab D1070 (Duplex) model.

Why this configuration worked:

  • Compatibility: The Epson SureLab D870 is one of the supported printers in BlueControl.
  • Import: BlueFX imports DPOF orders exported from EZ-Controller. Converting the BlueControl’s internal job format orders are fulfilled by printing directly to the Epson the Epson SureLab using standard and custom print sizes.
  • Result: The lab kept existing operator workflows (pre-judge in EZ-Controller) while printing on the latest printer hardware.

Since the writing of this blog, the lab has replaced the Epson Surelab D870 units with Epson SureLab D1070 units. They retain modular redundancy, whilst increasing speed as they target throughout similar to their previous Noritsu labs.

BlueFX Barcode Job Sheet: Update (2024-05-22)

Update – 2024-05-22: BlueFX adds Barcode Job Sheet creation feature. This feature enables:

  • Generation of barcode-enabled job sheets that encode job information and image file references.
  • Sheets of the unique barcode can be distributed in the lab to be read by barcode reader connected to the Noritsu QSS minilab.
  • Semi automatic efficient streamlined process.

Example Implementation:

  • BlueFX writes a pdf file (which can be printed) containing job metadata and a machine-readable barcode.
  • The barcode reader scans the pdf and resolves it to a network job directory monitored by BlueFX.
  • Job is released for printing.
BlueFX creates a quick and easy way to submit jobs to Noritsu Minilabs by creating Barcode Job Sheets. The minilab operator, using the barcode scanner on the minilab with the right media, only has to scan the jobs he wants to print to start print fulfilment[en]; BlueFX crée un moyen rapide et facile de soumettre des travaux à Noritsu Minilabs en créant des feuilles de travail de code-barres. L'opérateur du minilab, utilisant le lecteur de codes-barres du minilab avec le bon support, n'a qu'à scanner les travaux qu'il souhaite imprimer pour lancer l'exécution de l'impression [fr]; BlueFX crea una forma rápida y sencilla de enviar trabajos a Noritsu Minilabs mediante la creación de hojas de trabajo con código de barras. El operador del minilaboratorio, utilizando el escáner de código de barras en el minilaboratorio con los medios correctos, solo tiene que escanear los trabajos que desea imprimir para comenzar a imprimir [es]; BlueFX bietet eine schnelle und einfache Möglichkeit, Aufträge an Noritsu Minilabs zu übermitteln, indem Barcode-Auftragsblätter erstellt werden. Der Minilab-Bediener muss, indem er den Barcode-Scanner am Minilab mit den richtigen Medien verwendet, nur die Aufträge scannen, die er drucken möchte, um mit der Druckabwicklung zu beginnen [de]; BlueFX crea un modo rapido e semplice per inviare lavori a Noritsu Minilabs creando fogli di lavoro con codice a barre. L'operatore del minilab, utilizzando lo scanner di codici a barre sul minilab con il supporto giusto, deve solo scansionare i lavori che desidera stampare per avviare l'evasione della stampa [it]

Reviewed by the InsituaFX Engineering Team

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BlueFX seamlessly integrates with Noritsu EZ-Controller, enabling users to streamline their printing processes and enhance their photography experience. With BlueFX, Noritsu EZ-Controller users can easily manage school photography, sports events, and wedding orders within the platform. The software offers self-fulfillment web orders and centralized order management. An exciting new feature from BlueFX allows for automatic printing on Noritsu QSS minilabs by simply scanning a job barcode. This innovative functionality ensures efficient and accurate order fulfillment. Elevate your photography business with BlueFX and simplify photo lab integration for seamless printing on Noritsu QSS minilabs and other minilabs and printers like the Epson SureLab D1000 Series (including models like D1060 and D1070) and Fujifilm Frontiers such as the DX100, DX400 and DL650/DL600 [en];BlueFX s'intègre de manière transparente avec Noritsu EZ-Controller, permettant aux utilisateurs de rationaliser leurs processus d'impression et d'améliorer leur expérience photographique. Avec BlueFX, les utilisateurs de Noritsu EZ-Controller peuvent facilement gérer la photographie scolaire, les événements sportifs et les commandes de mariage au sein de la plateforme. Le logiciel propose des commandes Web en libre-service et une gestion centralisée des commandes. Une nouvelle fonctionnalité intéressante de BlueFX permet l'impression automatique sur les minilabs Noritsu QSS en scannant simplement un code-barres de travail. Cette fonctionnalité innovante garantit une exécution efficace et précise des commandes. Améliorez votre entreprise de photographie avec BlueFX et simplifiez l'intégration du laboratoire photo pour une impression transparente sur les minilabs Noritsu QSS et d'autres minilabs et imprimantes comme la série Epson SureLab D1000 (y compris les modèles comme D1060 et D1070) et Fujifilm Frontiers comme le DX100, DX400 et DL650/DL600 [fr];BlueFX lässt sich nahtlos in den Noritsu EZ-Controller integrieren, sodass Benutzer ihre Druckprozesse optimieren und ihr Fotoerlebnis verbessern können. Mit BlueFX können Noritsu EZ-Controller-Benutzer problemlos Schulfotografie, Sportveranstaltungen und Hochzeitsaufträge innerhalb der Plattform verwalten. Die Software bietet Self-Fulfillment-Webbestellungen und eine zentrale Auftragsverwaltung. Eine aufregende neue Funktion von BlueFX ermöglicht das automatische Drucken auf Noritsu QSS-Minilabs durch einfaches Scannen eines Auftragsbarcodes. Diese innovative Funktionalität gewährleistet eine effiziente und genaue Auftragsabwicklung. Steigern Sie Ihr Fotogeschäft mit BlueFX und vereinfachen Sie die Fotolaborintegration für nahtloses Drucken auf Noritsu QSS-Minilabs und anderen Minilabs und Druckern wie der Epson SureLab D1000-Serie (einschließlich Modellen wie D1060 und D1070) und Fujifilm Frontiers wie dem DX100, DX400 und DL650/DL600 [de];BlueFX se integra a la perfección con Noritsu EZ-Controller, lo que permite a los usuarios optimizar sus procesos de impresión y mejorar su experiencia fotográfica. Con BlueFX, los usuarios de Noritsu EZ-Controller pueden administrar fácilmente fotografías escolares, eventos deportivos y pedidos de bodas dentro de la plataforma. El software ofrece pedidos web de autorrealización y gestión centralizada de pedidos. Una nueva característica emocionante de BlueFX permite la impresión automática en minilabs Noritsu QSS simplemente escaneando un código de barras de trabajo. Esta funcionalidad innovadora garantiza un cumplimiento de pedidos eficiente y preciso. Eleve su negocio de fotografía con BlueFX y simplifique la integración del laboratorio fotográfico para una impresión perfecta en minilabs Noritsu QSS y otros minilabs e impresoras como la serie Epson SureLab D1000 (incluidos modelos como D1060 y D1070) y Fujifilm Frontiers como DX100, DX400 y DL650/DL600 [es];BlueFX si integra perfettamente con Noritsu EZ-Controller, consentendo agli utenti di semplificare i loro processi di stampa e migliorare la loro esperienza fotografica. Con BlueFX, gli utenti di Noritsu EZ-Controller possono gestire facilmente la fotografia scolastica, gli eventi sportivi e gli ordini di nozze all'interno della piattaforma. Il software offre ordini web con autoevasione e gestione centralizzata degli ordini. Una nuova entusiasmante funzionalità di BlueFX consente la stampa automatica sui minilab Noritsu QSS semplicemente scansionando un codice a barre del lavoro. Questa funzionalità innovativa garantisce un'evasione degli ordini efficiente e accurata. Migliora la tua attività di fotografia con BlueFX e semplifica l'integrazione del laboratorio fotografico per una stampa perfetta sui minilab Noritsu QSS e altri minilab e stampanti come la serie Epson SureLab D1000 (inclusi modelli come D1060 e D1070) e Fujifilm Frontiers come DX100, DX400 e DL650/DL600 [it]

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InsituaFX provides printing workflow solutions for retail and pro labs.
CONTACT US
InsituaFX provides printing workflow solutions for retail and pro labs.
CONTACT US