ACD Systems Announces Canvas X - Integrated Technical Graphics Solution with Unprecedented Workflow Optimization

VICTORIA, March 17 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- ACD Systems International Inc. (TSX: ASA), makers of Canvas(TM) technical illustration software and ACDSee(TM) photo management software announced today the immediate availability of Canvas X. Known as the only cross-platform, fully integrated graphics application, Canvas X provides an optimized workflow for the cost- effective creation, enhancement, presentation, and distribution of technical illustrations and graphics across a broad range of industries.

Canvas X streamlines the workflow process and saves organizations time and money by addressing the needs of technical professionals at every stage of a project. With support for over eighty import options, including DXF and DWG, Canvas X allows users to import, edit and enhance illustrations, images, and even legacy project data into one document. Canvas X boasts advanced annotation, markup and redlining tools for improved workgroup collaboration by allowing users to make and share comments and identify points of concern, all within the same document.

For maximum security in sharing projects, Canvas X enables users to create encrypted PDFs with password protection that control whether documents can be viewed, edited or printed. In addition, a variety of integrated distribution options including Web content, professional-quality publications, display graphics and numerous industry standard file formats are also accessible from within Canvas X.

Workflow optimizations for Canvas X include: - Support for 100+ file formats, reducing the need to purchase, train or support other software applications - Enhanced DXF/DWG support, ensuring that the highest degree of fidelity is retained during import for AutoCAD files, even when 3D drawings are projected into Canvas X's 2D design space. - Markup and Redlining tools, documenting the iterative design process through the application of comments and unique colors to facilitate collaboration among team members. - Canvas Print Driver for Windows, furthering the ability to edit and enhance content using Canvas' image editing and drawing tools by 'printing' complex illustrations, photos or files from any software application into a Canvas document. - ActiveX control support for Windows, enabling users to embed ActiveX controls directly within Canvas X documents, thereby expanding workflow processes designed to monitor and increase productivity through centralized data management.

'The ability to open complex file formats in an editable format has allowed me to easily integrate files into a single workable document,' states Eric Kristiansen, senior electrical engineer at Rockwell Collins. 'The ability of Canvas X to work with so many file formats allows me to use it as a single source program. For example, I often open a map (.jpg) then overlay an AutoCAD(TM) file on top of it, and then I save it out to a PDF. This way the customer can easily see what we are proposing. The speed at which I am able to create designs and presentation material has allowed our projects to have a very professional appearance.'

System Requirements Windows(R) Processor: Pentium III-class Operating System: Windows 2000 or XP (Home or Professional editions) Memory: 128 MB RAM installed (256 MB recommended) Hard Disk: 100 MB free hard disk space Display: 16-bit color or higher (True color recommended); 1024x768 or higher screen resolution recommended Input Device: Mouse and keyboard. Scanner optional for importing and editing graphics. Output Device: Host of industry standard devices supported Other: CD-ROM drive. DVD drive or Internet access-to-access Clipart library. Macintosh(TM) Processor: PowerPC (G3 or better) Operating System: Mac OS X only (version OS 10.2.6 or above and Panther) Memory: 128 MB RAM installed (256 MB recommended) Hard Disk: 100 MB free hard disk space Display: 16-bit color or higher (True color recommended); 1024x768 or higher screen resolution recommended Input Device: Mouse and keyboard. Scanner optional for importing and editing graphics. Output Device: Host of industry standard devices supported Other: CD-ROM drive. DVD drive or Internet access-to-access Clipart library. Pricing and Availability

Available for Windows and Macintosh, Canvas X is available at the suggested retail price of $399.99 for the full product. Upgrades are available for registered users at price points ranging from $199.99 to $49.99 (depending on version and platform) for a limited time introductory offer.

Also available are add-on modules that add industry-specific functionality to the core features available in Canvas. Add the GIS+ module to Canvas X to visualize, present and share GIS data and projects within a fully georeferenced environment. Add the Scientific Imaging module to Canvas X to analyze and visualize files that require up to 32 bits of floating point pixel data per channel. For more information visit our website at: http://www.acdsystems.com/.

About ACD Systems

Headquartered in British Columbia since 1993, ACD Systems International (TSX: ASA) is one of the world's leading developers and marketers of digital imaging software, including the renowned ACDSee image management tool and Canvas, an advanced cross-platform technical illustration and graphics program. ACD has penetrated the global marketplace through Internet distribution and strategic partnerships with manufacturers and developers. ACD has millions of users in the consumer market and over 33,000 corporate customers including many Fortune 500 companies. The company has a history of solid revenue growth. For further details, please visit: http://www.acdsystems.com/.

ACD, ACD Systems, ACDSee, and SendPix are trademarks or registered trademarks of ACD Systems Ltd. in Canada, the United States, or certain other jurisdictions. Trademarks of ACD Systems Ltd. are used under license by ACD Systems of America, Inc. Canvas is a trademark or registered trademark of ACD Systems of America, Inc. in Canada, the United States, or certain other jurisdictions. Trademarks of ACD Systems of America, Inc. are used under license by ACD Systems Ltd. All other trademarks and/or registered trademarks belong to their respective owners.

Contacts for Media Curtis Christensen Public Relations Manager, Canvas Product Line ACD Systems of America [phone] for Investors Mark Franklin Director, Corporate Operations ACD Systems International Inc. [phone]

THIS NEWS RELEASE MAY CONTAIN FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS BASED ON THE ESTIMATES AND OPINIONS OF MANAGEMENT AT THE DATE THE STATEMENTS WERE MADE AND THE COMPANY UNDERTAKES NO OBLIGATION TO UPDATE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS IF CONDITIONS OR OPINIONS SHOULD CHANGE.