DIGITAL PLATES -- Shortcutting the Process

The leading plate manufacturers have very similar takes on the future of this development, even if they differ on what to call it. This shared vision begins with a focus on non-ablative switchable polymer and/or on-press development systems as promising technologies.

That is, with the exception of Presstek Inc. in Hudson, NH. The company has pioneered the market with its current generation of chemistry-free plates and use of thermal-ablation imaging. "This (choice) is not based upon an affinity for the technology itself, but rather because we believe this approach offers the best opportunity for chemistry-free and process-free plate products," notes John O'Rourke, marketing director, Digital Media.