CTP - Computer to Plate
Screen Trueflow SE Hybrid Workflow Solution Improves Speed, Reliability of CTP Production and Print on Demand
Monday 03. March 2008 - Print providers will have an opportunity to experience breakthroughs in prepress automation at Graphics of the Americas. In booth #1064, Screen (USA) will demonstrate its most powerful enhancements to the Trueflow workflow management system.
In keeping with Screen’s strategy of providing digital solutions to graphic communications companies of all sizes and capabilities, the Trueflow PDF- and JDF-based prepress production workflow drives separate output devices on a single network. With Trueflow SE, one workflow application manages production to multiple computer-to-plate (CTP) recorders, digital presses and proofing systems. This hybrid workflow solution generates the necessary data for printers to quickly use output devices on demand, saving time and money and accelerating turnarounds.
Trueflow SE performs all common prepress functions, such as file checking, OPI, automated trapping, RGB-to-CMYK conversion and plate imposition specifically for CTP workflows. But Trueflow SE significantly improves production reliability and profitability by capitalizing on the strengths of PDF for content definition and the JDF standard for job ticketing and process control.
Incorporating Adobe PDF Print Engine (APPE) the latest native PDF-rendering technology Trueflow SE delivers the total workflow solution to optimize input to output. It enables consistent PDF preparation, in addition to eliminating manual prepress production for digital printing.
Trueflow SE removes unnecessary data and file conversions that interrupt the workflow and cause efficiency loss. The integrity of file input and output is ensured, and output consistency is maintained throughout the production process.
By allowing PDF files to retain their device-independence across the workflow, Trueflow SE also closes the gap between designers and service providers. Content creators can be confident that complex design data intended to produce a particular desired effect will be printed faithful to the creative vision. For instance, Trueflow SE traps and processes transparencies without flattening the files.
Another major function in Trueflow SE is the ability to make late-stage content corrections if necessary, without the time-consuming requirements of going back to native applications. Furthermore, if a decision is made late in the production cycle for output on a different printing system, Trueflow SE can instantaneously change the file’s color management, trapping and imposition to match the specific output device.
Trueflow SE automates production from page input to final output by a single drag-and-drop action. In addition to handling PDF files, Trueflow SE supports PostScript files. As a full JDF production workflow, Trueflow SE strengthens links for transmission of job ticket information to management information systems, pressroom and postpress.