Especially now that it has matured, computer-to-plate is a wonderful invention, no question. It eliminates the entire film process and although digital plates may cost a bit more than conventional ones, the benefits far outweigh the disadvantages. After all, who can put a price on stretching the deadline, even if just by half an hour.

But adopting CTP is never as simple as just deciding you will convert the platemaking operation. There is much to know and much to consider. The laser technology is one consideration. Plate technology, engine speed, cost of operation and overall system reliability are some others. And then there is the little matter of digital infrastructure, which could override the benefits of CTP if not properly implemented.

Seeing the light

There are basically two types of laser light sources — visible light and thermal. Recent advances in both make this a difficult choice. Visible light has been seen as the one with the lower cost of operation and best speed record. But of course, first you need to determine how much speed you need, and how that might affect system reliability.

There is another technology — powerful ultraviolet light sources for imaging conventional plates. Although, these do not seem to be mainstream. I am told that is because they require more energy and have a relatively short life span. That tells me they are more costly to maintain even though you get the benefit of using conventional plates.

Visible violet

The newest color in visible-laser fashion is violet. This one seems to have great promise. It has already taken off in the commercial market where high resolution is more critical. But the printers who are buying the violet technology are also doing so because of its low cost and high productivity. Smaller printers are saying such systems are helping them to compete with larger, wealthier ones. High-volume printers are enjoying the speed and reliability.

Violet-diode lasers used in CTP technology are the same light sources used in DVD technology. The mass production of these lasers is what makes them less expensive. The advantage of having them in CTP systems is that they are small and swift for high-speed imaging. Violet-imaged plates can be handled in near daylight (a.k.a. roomlight) conditions, another advantage. The stats say violet-diode lasers actually last longer than most engines. And apparently these systems use less energy, making them less costly to operate.

There is more. Plate technology of the violet persuasion continues to improve as well, providing easier handling. Current violet plate manufacturers include Agfa, Fuji, and Mitsubishi, so plates for this new technology are in abundance.

Invisible infrastructure

Whatever the specs of the CTP system you choose, beware of front-end bottlenecks. In other words, unless you have a reliable data stream from input all the way to platemaking you may not realize the full advantages of CTP. Remember that true productivity is rarely the result of a single piece of equipment. It is the result of a seamless interaction of various processes. Consider automating the entire workflow. Keep it “open.” Stay away from proprietary. This way, you won’t be in a corner when the next generation of digital technology comes to call.

Rosemarie Monaco is the chief executive officer of Group M Inc., a marketing communications and consulting firm specializing in the graphic arts. Send comments and questions to rmonaco@groupm.org.