Faster sync, real-time reports, more

Insider Software has released version 5.0 of FontAgent Pro TeamServer, its turnkey font server solution for Mac that allows small groups of users on local networks the ability to search, preview and activate fonts from a centralized library at low costs. Version 5 moves to an all-new high-performance Java-based architecture, allowing a one-click installer for both the TeamServer and the J2EE environment, and manages fonts automatically with administration from any Mac or Windows client.

TeamServer does not require new hardware or a dedicated machine, as it runs on a wide variety of Mac hardware, requiring only OS X 10.4 or higher (10.5.8 recommended) and a minimal (256MB, 1GB recommended) amount of RAM and disk space (30MB), making it an ideal application to recycle an older Mac back into a useful component on the network. It also supports Windows clients running Windows XP or later, and can be administered from either platform using a web-based interface.

The software ensures font integrity, synchronicity and availability for all clients on the network, and lets users search for fonts (locally and remotely) by properties (such as "sans serif") and topics (such as "holiday" or "technology") rather than just name, weight or keyword. It can even stop users from installing unauthorized fonts on the network. The new version also features faster synchronization and real-time, browser-based reports on font usage by machine or user.

TeamServer includes the ability to create browser-based online catalogs that can be accessed from anywhere, and can display previews of fonts including comparisons and slideshows. Results can be printed with full color control, and the software works with current and previous versions of top design programs including the Adobe CS suite and apps, QuarkXpress and other Mac applications.

The software is expandable to the Enterprise Edition to support larger groups, Active and Open Directory technology, Kerberos single-sign-on and other features. FontAgent Pro TeamServer is available in either a five- or 10-user license, priced at $895 and $1295 respectively (additional users can be added for $150 each). A 30-day free trial can be requested.

by MacNN Staff