CTP Systems -- Violet Support Isn't Shrinking

Violet CTP technology is said to benefit from the laser diode's use in broader applications, such as DVD systems. However, the comparatively small volume demands of the printing industry limits its influence on product development.

CTP system vendors acknowledge that the move up to 60mW lasers is mainly about using what's currently available, rather than enhancing platesetter capabilities. The previous generation of 30mW diodes already passed the power threshold required to enable use of photopolymer emulsions on plates, which was a crucial advance toward matching thermal plates.