CTP - Computer to Plate
Screen (USA) to Demonstrate Entry-Level Eight-Up CTP at Graphics of the Americas
Monday 03. March 2008 - Although thermal computer-to-plate (CTP) systems have been an economically viable option for a number of years, especially where high throughput or full automation is important for profitable printing, many small print shops have found the cost of adopting CTP beyond their reach. The Screen PlateRite Niagara has changed all that.
The PlateRite Niagara is an affordable, entry-level platesetter designed to bring the benefits of digital plate production to everybody, including the smallest printers.
Engineered to meet the needs of most small or medium-size operations utilizing two-page to eight-page (B3 to B1) presses, the PlateRite Niagara is the perfect device for firms that seek a smooth transition to CTP. It easily handles production of thermal plates from 12 inches x 14.6 inches (304 mm x 370 mm) to 41.7 inches x 32.2 inches (1,060 mm x 820 mm). With its compact design and small footprint, the platesetter fits in every printer’s plate-making room.
Like the entire family of Screen products, the PlateRite Niagara is synonymous with quality, reliability and precision.
The PlateRite Niagara features a patented exposure head that uses Screen’s advanced laser and optical technologies technologies that have made Screen the world’s number one supplier of CTP. The 84-channel laser diode head greatly enhances parallel imaging and enables the PlateRite Niagara to output 11 plates per hour at 2,400 dpi. The exposure head supports adjustable resolutions of 2,400 dpi, 2,438 dpi and 2,540 dpi to suit an array of jobs. Backup mode and individually replaceable laser diodes ensure high uptime and low service cost.
Screen’s auto-balance system and precision plate-clamping system enable this level of productivity for a wide range of plate sizes. The auto-balance feature allows the PlateRite Niagara to adapt to different plate sizes without making manual adjustments for correct drum balance. The operator simply selects the type of plate to be used, and the PlateRite Niagara automatically makes the necessary adjustments to create the perfect drum balance for each plate.
The PlateRite Niagara integrates seamlessly into Screen’s JDF-enabled Trueflownet environment for the most advanced digital workflow solution available. The Trueflow SE workflow management system, the core of the Trueflownet concept, enables the control and speed required for optimum performance in plate production.
Screen (USA) will demonstrate the PlateRite Niagara in booth #1064 at Graphics of the Americas, February 28-March 1 at the Miami Beach Convention Center.